Steve Sarkisian details characteristic that makes Manning family ‘unique’
By Paul Harvey
Published:
Steve Sarkisian is gearing up to lead Texas into yet another season, and this time, there will be massive expectations placed on the Longhorns.
After reaching the College Football Playoff semifinals each of the last 2 seasons, Texas will be among the national title favorites this fall. The team will also be led by Arch Manning in his first season as a starter in what many expect to be a meteoric rise for the quarterback with the legendary last name.
In a recent conversation with ESPN’s Rece Davis, Sarkisian was asked why he feels Manning is ready to assume the mantle of leading the Longhorns. The head coach admitted there’s a unique way about the Manning family, and their comfort level guiding Arch has allowed Sarkisian to feel comfortable in the timing.
“I do think there’s something about the Mannings. They have a very unique way of feeling normal,” said Steve Sarkisian. “As big as the brand is, as big as they are, they have this unique way of getting into character when they need to be in character and stepping out of character when they don’t need to be in character and focus on what they need to do. They’re obviously very family-oriented.
“This isn’t about how many eyeballs they can get on (Arch). This is about how many commercials can I do, but yet they understand there are going to be eyeballs on him. There’s a level of comfort in managing that for them that makes me feel good.”
As for Arch’s performance, Sarkisian has plenty of high hopes, but he is also realistic about what to expect. He’s tried to prepare his young QB for that balanced reaction from fans, and Sarkisian also hopes everyone can enjoy the moment as the season progresses.
That may be tough to do, considering Manning is the preseason favorite in the 2025 Heisman Trophy odds, produced by BetMGM. Fans can track the odds and Manning’s potential push for the award through the best sports betting apps.
“I just want him to enjoy it, I really do. And I hope the masses can let this guy enjoy it,” Sarkisian explained. “As much as we’re in revenue sharing and NIL, we still have a wonderful game to play. I hope he goes out and throws 40 touchdowns and no interceptions, probably not going to happen, so I’ve talked him through the fact the boos are going to come, too… let’s just stay focused on what we need to do.”
Paul Harvey lives in Atlanta and covers SEC football.
