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Arch Manning is looking to make a splash in his freshman season, but it may not come as quickly as many anticipated. The former top overall recruit slipped down the depth chart in Texas’s most recent spring practice.
While many knew he’d fall behind incumbent starter Quinn Ewers, most believed he’d be the second option under center in Austin. On Tuesday, redshirt freshman Maalik Murphy took second-team reps, pushing Manning down a peg.
Manning took the college football world by storm after landing with the Longhorns, quickly showing off his ability on the field. Fans got a better glimpse of the passer in his first spring practice session earlier this month, and again, they were wowed.
Those fans don’t make the depth charts, though, and Manning recently found himself in an unfamiliar spot on Tuesday. Third string.
Texas QB Maalik Murphy was fully participating in the portion of practice. Media members were allowed to watch on Tuesday. He was receiving second-team reps while Arch Manning was receiving third-team reps.
— Anwar Richardson (@AnwarRichardson) March 21, 2023
Murphy is a physically imposing passer, standing 6-foot-5 and 235 pounds. And while he didn’t suit up for the Longhorns last season, the four-star prospect has spent an extra year in the Texas offense.
That experience was obviously enough to give him the nod this week.
Many were quick to comment on that surprising turn of events.
But wait, I though Arch was taking over the entire QB room already??😱
— 👑 𝓚𝔀𝓮𝓮𝓮𝓷𝓑 👑 (@KweeenieB) March 21, 2023
Some jokingly posted about his inevitable transfer portal announcement.
Arch transfer portal in 2024🏈
— Umpireman7 (@umpireman7) March 21, 2023
While the news might shock some, it doesn’t appear to have affected Arch Manning much. In fact, he may be using it as motivation.
Head coach Steve Sarkisian said that he had his best day of practice in a Longhorns uniform on Tuesday, and he’s already benefitting from his time on campus.
Manning said the following about his early enrollment.
It’s definitely been a great head start… I’ve gotten bigger, faster, and stronger.
He appears to be putting in the work necessary. He may not stay buried on the depth chart much longer.