Paul Finebaum Offers High Praise for Texas Quarterback Arch Manning, Sparks National Conversation About the Future of College Football
Paul Finebaum is no stranger to making headlines in college football. Whether he’s debating SEC dominance, critiquing coaches, or stirring controversy among fanbases, Finebaum has long established himself as one of the sport’s most influential voices. So when he singles out a player for high praise, especially a young quarterback with a legendary last name, people take notice. That’s exactly what happened this week when Finebaum spoke glowingly about Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning, calling him “the most exciting young quarterback in college football” and even suggesting that he could be “the face of the sport by the end of the season.”
The comments came during an ESPN segment where Finebaum was asked about which players he believed were poised for breakout seasons. His response was immediate and emphatic. “It’s Arch Manning. No question. We’ve talked about the Manning name for two decades now, but this kid is more than his bloodline. He’s got the tools, the presence, and most importantly, the moment.”
Finebaum went on to emphasize how the 2025 season presents a unique opportunity for Arch. With Quinn Ewers declaring for the NFL Draft following a successful 2024 campaign, the Longhorns officially handed the reins to Manning. While there had been speculation about a possible quarterback competition, it became clear during spring camp that the job was Arch’s to lose—and he didn’t.
“He’s taken command of that team,” Finebaum added. “He’s been quiet in the media, but loud in the locker room and on the practice field. Players respect him. Coaches trust him. That tells me we’re about to see something special.”
Arch Manning arrived in Austin in 2023 amid massive fanfare. The nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning, and grandson of college football legend Archie Manning, Arch was perhaps the most hyped high school quarterback in the modern recruiting era. But unlike many others in his position, he didn’t chase the spotlight. He sat patiently behind Ewers, learning the system, adjusting to the speed of the college game, and earning respect with his humility and work ethic.
Now, in 2025, he’s finally getting his chance—and if the early reports are any indication, he’s more than ready.
Texas insiders have raved about Arch’s progress since the end of last season. Coaches have praised his command of the playbook, his improved footwork, and his leadership during player-led practices. During the Longhorns’ spring game, Manning threw for over 300 yards and three touchdowns, showing off both deep-ball accuracy and an ability to extend plays with his legs—something critics once said he lacked.
Finebaum wasn’t the only analyst to take notice, but he was certainly the most prominent. His praise kicked off a wave of national media attention. Soon after his comments aired, major outlets ran segments debating how high Manning’s ceiling truly is. Some compared his style to Joe Burrow. Others pointed to a young Andrew Luck. But nearly all agreed: Texas might finally have its superstar.
“He’s going to be under a microscope, no doubt,” Finebaum said in a follow-up interview. “But the difference is, I think he wants that. He’s not running from the pressure. He’s embracing it. That’s what makes him special.”
What adds more intrigue to Manning’s rise is the timing. Texas is entering its first season as a full member of the SEC—a conference that doesn’t offer warm welcomes. The Longhorns open the year with a marquee matchup against Georgia, followed by a gauntlet that includes LSU, Alabama, and Texas A&M. Manning won’t be eased into anything. He’ll be tested immediately.
But as Finebaum pointed out, “Iron sharpens iron. If Arch can survive and thrive in this conference, he’s going to prove every doubter wrong and then some.”
The Longhorns are banking on that. After years of inconsistency and unmet expectations, Texas fans are hungry for a return to national relevance. The addition of head coach Steve Sarkisian has brought structure, discipline, and strong recruiting. The defense has improved. The offensive line is solid. And now, with Manning under center, the expectations have skyrocketed.
“Texas doesn’t need Arch Manning to just be good,” Finebaum noted. “They need him to be elite. They need him to take them from contender to champion.”
No pressure, right?
But those who know Arch best say he’s built for this. Despite the attention surrounding his family name, Arch has always charted his own course. He declined to participate in name, image, and likeness (NIL) deals during his freshman year, saying he wanted to focus on football. He kept a low profile on social media. And he’s consistently deferred credit to teammates and coaches.
“That’s what impressed me most,” Finebaum said. “This kid could’ve cashed in early. He could’ve made headlines every week. But he chose to put his head down and work. That tells you all you need to know.”
With the season just weeks away, excitement in Austin is at a fever pitch. Tickets for the opener at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium sold out in record time. Arch Manning jerseys are flying off the shelves. And the university is already preparing for the possibility of hosting “College GameDay” more than once this season.
But for all the hype, the pressure, and the comparisons to uncles who wore Super Bowl rings, Arch Manning remains focused.
“I don’t want to be the next Peyton or Eli,” he told reporters during media day. “I want to be the first Arch.”
Those words resonated deeply—not just with fans, but with analysts like Finebaum, who have followed the sport for decades. “He’s carving his own legacy,” Finebaum said. “And that’s what’s so exciting.”
If Manning lives up to even half the expectations placed upon him, Texas could find itself in the thick of the College Football Playoff race. But more importantly, it could be the beginning of a new era—a return to dominance for a program that once defined the sport but has struggled to reclaim that status.
Paul Finebaum isn’t known for doling out compliments lightly. His reputation was built on skepticism, tough questions, and sharp critiques. So when he speaks this glowingly about a young quarterback, it’s worth paying attention.
“This isn’t just hype,” Finebaum concluded. “This kid’s got it. He’s got that thing you can’t teach. The leadership. The poise. The pedigree. But more than anything, the fire. Watch out, college football. Arch Manning is here.”
And with that, the stage is set.
For Arch Manning, this season isn’t just about throwing touchdowns or winning games. It’s about legacy—his own. And for Texas, it’s about belief. After years of asking “Are we back?” they may finally have their answer.
Thanks to one quarterback—and the voice who’s betting big on him.
