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A potential shift could be coming in Austin.
Texas will be giving backup quarterback KJ Lacey Jr. more first-team reps in practice this week, ESPN reported Monday, after Arch Manning and the Longhorns lost to an unranked SEC foe for the second straight week, tumbling from No. 1 to No. 19 in the AP poll.
While Manning will still start against No. 7 Ole Miss on Saturday, the move signals that the team is preparing to bench Manning if they deem it necessary.
“I think there’s no doubt about it: Arch can play better for us,” head coach Steve Sarkisian told reporters on Monday. “He’s our starter, but I need to see a better version of Arch Manning.”
Manning has had turnovers on Texas’ final drives in each of their last two losses. The fourth-year quarterback and second-year starter has also struggled with command of his offense, holding onto the ball too long and missing open receivers for several weeks. This past week’s loss to Florida was especially concerning considering the Gators had allowed 83 points over their last two games and were playing with their backup quarterback in a road game.
Lacey’s upside lies in his quick decision-making and accuracy, which could help alleviate the struggles Texas’ offense currently faces.
There’s no indication that Manning being benched is inevitable, but the Longhorns are doing their due diligence and preparing for the possibility of making a change under center.
Through six games, Manning has recorded 11 touchdowns and thrown five interceptions, throwing over 300 yards in a game just once, in Week 1 against Texas State.
Manning’s recent struggles could impact his standing should he declare for the 2027 NFL Draft, where he’s one of many intriguing quarterbacks that could be available for several franchises who are desperate for one.
Sarkisian, who until now has vehemently defended Manning, said after the Florida loss that “everything is going to be evaluated.”