Florida Stuns Texas as Arch Manning Struggles Again

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Game Time Decisions

Florida’s Defense Delivers as Arch Manning Struggles Against the Gators

Credit goes to the Gators for going on the road to Austin and thoroughly beating the Texas Longhorns. A Florida team that had struggled defensively finally showed up, while the backup quarterback made plays when they mattered. Strong game planning also helped secure the victory.

Tramel Jones played a lot like Fio, though he was able to use his legs a little more. He did not deliver a spectacular performance, leaving the Gators with a decision to make at quarterback, but he did what was needed.

Arch Manning, meanwhile, played poorly despite receiving numerous opportunities. His performance included fumbles and interceptions. He can make exceptional throws, including deep passes delivered perfectly for touchdowns, but explosive plays are only a small part of the game. Questions remain about his throws over the middle, his ability to elude defenders, and his decision-making as a runner.

Manning is still young, but his performances have not matched the enormous expectations surrounding him. Carson Beck was a better quarterback at Miami and was drafted in the fifth round, raising questions about why Manning had been discussed as a potential first overall pick and the centerpiece of a “Manning sweepstakes.”

The game captured the Arch Manning experience. On some plays, he looks like the player everyone expected. On others, his mistakes make it difficult to view him as a franchise-changing quarterback. That also raises questions about how much responsibility belongs to Manning and how much belongs to Sarkisian and the coaching staff.

Reports that Texas is considering a change suggest Manning could be moving toward the bench. If that happens, he may have a decision to make at the end of the season. With little financial incentive to enter the NFL, a transfer to a lower-pressure program such as Memphis, Tulsa, or North Dakota State could give him an opportunity to rebuild himself and impress in a different offensive situation.

A move to LSU after Levitt leaves would bring more pressure and could be a poor choice. A lower-pressure destination may be better—even Hofstra, despite not having a team, was jokingly suggested as a program that could be recreated for him because of the Manning name.