Arch Manning has something in store for college football next season

Arch Manning gave fans a glimpse of the future and college football had better be ready for what happens next. 

Manning put together the type of performance that will make him the runaway Heisman favorite heading into the next season, accumulating 376 yards (221 passing, 155 rushing) and four total touchdowns to lead the Longhorns to a 41-27 win over Michigan in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl. 

With Manning returning and the Longhorns going all-in on recruiting and accumulating high-end talent out of the transfer portal, there's no doubt that Texas is looking at a preseason top-5 ranking next season and possibly opening at No. 1 for the second straight season.

Manning entered the 2025 season as one of, if not the most hyped players in college football history. Unfortunately, Manning didn't have a chance to ease into the season. Right out the gate, he had to go to Columbus, Ohio and take on the defending champion Buckeyes. He missed some throws, as can be expected, and the Buckeyes' talented defense made things difficult for him. 

The adjustment lasted for the first half of the season. Manning had his moments where he looked great and others where he looked lost. Texas' offense could be clunky and there were questions about whether Steve Sarkisian's play-calling was putting Manning in the best position to succeed.

But over the final six games, things began to click. Manning had three 300-yard passing games and 14 touchdowns with just two interceptions. Sarkisian started leaning into Manning's mobility more and calling designed runs. He had five rushing touchdowns in the second half of the season and expect Manning's legs to be a big part of the Longhorns' offense in 2026. 

So buckle up Longhorn fans, it''s going to be a long eight months, but the Manning and the Longhorns are going to be special. Heisman Trophy winner? CFP champions? It's all on the table for Texas in 2026.