Texas Football’s Quarterback Conundrum: To Play Arch Manning or Not?
As the Texas Longhorns prepare to face Arizona State in the College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinals, a lingering question remains: how should they utilize quarterback Arch Manning? The highly touted backup has been waiting in the wings, boasting a stronger arm and superior athleticism compared to starter Quinn Ewers.
Despite Ewers’ underwhelming performance and injury issues, head coach Steve Sarkisian has consistently expressed his support for the incumbent quarterback. While arm strength and athleticism are crucial aspects of a quarterback’s skillset, Sarkisian understands that the position demands more. Experience, smarts, and intangibles play a significant role in a quarterback’s success, and these qualities are harder to quantify.
The numbers suggest that Manning could bring a spark to the Longhorns’ offense. His athleticism and arm talent could potentially stretch defenses and create more scoring opportunities. However, it’s essential to consider the potential risks of inserting Manning into the lineup, particularly in a high-stakes game like the CFP quarterfinals.
Sarkisian’s decision to stick with Ewers is likely based on the quarterback’s experience and understanding of the offense. Ewers has started throughout the season, and his familiarity with the system could provide stability in a crucial game.
To maximize their chances of success, the Longhorns could consider a compromise: incorporating Manning into the game plan as a change-of-pace quarterback or utilizing him in specific packages that play to his strengths. This approach would allow Texas to leverage Manning’s athleticism and arm talent while minimizing the risks associated with making a quarterback change in a high-pressure game.
Ultimately, the decision on how to use Arch Manning will depend on Sarkisian’s coaching philosophy and his assessment of the team’s needs. As the Longhorns prepare to face Arizona State, all eyes will be on the quarterback position, and the outcome of the game may hinge on the coaching staff’s ability to make the most of their t alent.
