Arch Manning wants the Heisman, but Texas holds him back

Arch Manning doesn’t just carry one of the heaviest last names in football—he also shoulders expectations that seem to grow faster than his playing time. In a college season marked by ups and downs, the young quarterback for the Texas Longhorns is sparking conversation not only for what he’s doing, but for what he’s still not allowed to do. According to a report by EssentiallySports, Manning has done the “impossible”: keeping fans hopeful even as the program appears to be restricting his real shot at Heisman contention.

The controversy is no small matter. Despite Arch Manning’s solid performances and his ability to deliver explosive plays, critics argue that Texas’s coaching staff is holding him back. Strategic decisions, uneven distribution of spotlight, and inconsistent usage have drawn criticism from analysts and fans alike. Is Texas sabotaging its most promising star?

Maturity in the face of controversy

Arch Manning, for his part, shows maturity. Instead of getting swept up in media pressure—which is considerable, given that he’s the nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning and son of Cooper Manning—he chooses to focus on his growth. Still, the outside noise is hard to ignore. Comparisons to his Super Bowl-winning uncles are constant, and the public expects Arch to match—or even surpass—them.

What Texas has done in the AP Top 25 poll this season is historical. I cannot find another instance of a preseason No. 1 team falling totally out of the poll then bouncing back to the top 10 during the regular season.

— Brian Davis (@byBDavis) November 9, 2025

It’s also worth noting that Texas’s offensive system doesn’t always suit Arch Manning’s style. In key games, critics have questioned the lack of play-calling designed to leverage his mobility, field vision, and accuracy. Some experts believe the team is wasting a rare opportunity to build an offense around a generational talent.

Missing from the rankings

Adding to the frustration, Arch Manning has vanished from several early Heisman rankings, as reported by College Football Network. His limited role in high-profile matchups—like the showdown against Ohio State—has allowed less-hyped quarterbacks to leap ahead in the race for the prestigious award.

Still, the season isn’t over. If Texas chooses to fully back him, Arch Manning could flip the narrative. He’s got the name, the skill, and the mindset. What he needs is the stage. And if he gets it, it wouldn’t be surprising to see him finish the year as one of the most influential quarterbacks in college football.