Published October 17, 2026 08:00 PM
The 2026 season for the University of Texas is quickly imploding. And it could result in the benching of quarterback Arch Manning.
Via Danny Davis of the Austin American-Statesman, Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian opened the door to replacing Manning after Saturday’s 27-24 loss to Florida.
Asked whether Sarkisian considered making a change at quarterback, he said, “I just felt like we didn’t play good offensive football and we’re not playing great offensive football right now. So everything is going to be evaluated.”
Sarkisian then was asked whether that means his starting quarterback.
“Everything means everything,” Sarkisian replied.
If K.J. Lacey replaces Manning, the college career of Peyton and Eli’s nephew would be thrown for a loop. Not long ago, Arch was the betting favorite to be the first overall pick in the 2027 draft. If Sarkisian removes Manning from the lineup, he’d likely take another year before joining the NFL — possibly after transferring to a new program.
Against Florida, Manning struggled. Last week, a pair of fourth-quarter interceptions in the Red River Rivalry set the stage for the first Texas loss of the season, 27-24 to Oklahoma. Next week, Texas hosts Mississippi.
Carrying the Manning name is equal parts blessing and curse. It has allowed Arch to earn millions in NIL payments. It also has invited significant scrutiny and the creation of a high bar that he’s currently falling far short of meeting.