Arch Manning’s Much-Awaited Start Against Ohio State: What to Expect

As anticipation builds for the highly anticipated college football season opener, all eyes will be on Arch Manning, the talented quarterback for top-ranked Texas Longhorns. Manning’s debut comes just one year after Texas fell short in the College Football Playoff semifinals against Ohio State, and fans are eager for a fresh start.

Texas vs. Ohio State: The Big Matchup

• Date: Saturday, September 2, 2023
• Time: 12 p.m. ET
• Location: Columbus, Ohio
• Broadcast: Fox

Last season, Texas was trailing Ohio State by a touchdown at halftime, with many fans clamoring for Manning to take the field. It didn’t happen, leaving a haunting "what if" lingering over the Longhorns. ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum reflected on the fervor among fans, stating, “I believe if Arch Manning had been inserted into the game, the result might’ve been different.”

This matchup is not just another game; it symbolizes the beginning of a new era for Texas football. With Manning under center, the Longhorns hope to reclaim their spot at the top of college football.

Arch Manning: The Latest in Football Legacy

At 6-foot-4, Arch Manning is not just another young talent; he embodies a legacy. As the grandson of Hall of Famer Archie Manning and nephew of Super Bowl champions Peyton and Eli, expectations are sky-high. However, Manning has already set a precedent by becoming the first freshman in over 40 years to start at Isidore Newman School in New Orleans, amassing 8,599 career passing yards and 115 touchdowns—records previously held by his uncles.

Key Highlights:

• Preseason No. 1: Texas holds the No. 1 ranking for the first time in program history.
• Heisman Contender: Manning is favored to win the Heisman Trophy, a title his uncles never won.
• Future Star: Speculation surrounding him potentially being the No. 1 pick in the upcoming NFL Draft has already begun.

Manning expressed his thoughts on the excessive hype, stating, “I’ve only played two games. Talk is cheap; I’ve got to go prove it.”

Other Noteworthy Games to Watch This Weekend

No. 8 Alabama at Florida State: 3:30 p.m.

• Insight: Alabama faces a tricky away game against a Florida State team that’s looking to bounce back from a subpar season.
• Key Players: New QB Ty Simpson and a resilient Florida State defense could make this a nail-biter.

No. 9 LSU at No. 4 Clemson: 7:30 p.m.

• Insight: Both teams are vying to reclaim championship glory with their experienced QBs, Cade Klubnik for Clemson and Garrett Nussmeier for LSU.
• Home Advantage: Clemson benefits from the home crowd, but LSU’s SEC schedule promises more challenges ahead.

New Mexico at No. 14 Michigan: 7:30 p.m.

• Insight: Michigan will ease in their new QB, Bryce Underwood, who at 18 is the youngest starter in the program’s history.

Sunday Showdown: No. 6 Notre Dame at No. 10 Miami: 7:30 p.m.

As part of an exciting weekend, Notre Dame will feature new freshman QB CJ Carr, while Miami welcomes Carson Beck, a transfer from Georgia. Both programs aim to solidify their standings after strong previous seasons.

Monday Night Football: TCU at North Carolina: 8 p.m.

The week caps off with a matchup that marks the beginning of the Bill Belichick era at North Carolina. Following a decorated NFL coaching career, Belichick aims to bring his championship experience to the college level.

Conclusion

With Arch Manning stepping into the spotlight as Texas’ starting quarterback, fans are eager for a thrilling opening weekend in college football. The excitement surrounding the matchups, especially Texas vs. Ohio State, promises to be an unforgettable start to the season. As Manning aims to prove the hype is warranted, everyone will be watching closely.

For more college football news and updates, check out ESPN’s College Football coverage.

This article captures details and excitement around Arch Manning and the opening college football games, enriching fans with analysis, background, and key information to enhance browsing engagement.