The highly-ranked Texas Longhorns have officially declared redshirt freshman quarterback Arch Manning as the starter for Week 4 against UL Monroe at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday.

This will be Manning’s first official start, filling in for Quinn Ewers, who is sidelined with an abdominal strain. In the team’s recent 56-7 victory over UTSA, Manning showcased his capabilities by throwing for 223 yards and scoring four touchdowns, along with a 67-yard rushing touchdown. The Longhorns’ defense, which has allowed just two touchdowns and a total of 19 points this season, will play a crucial role in supporting the inexperienced quarterback and helping maintain the team’s impressive record.

The last occasion Texas held the top position in the AP Polls was back in 2008 under the leadership of quarterback Colt McCoy.

Here’s all you need to know about Texas’ new QB1, Arch Manning, as we approach Week 4.

Who is Arch Manning?

Archibald “Arch” Manning hails from a distinguished football family. He is the son of Cooper Manning, the grandson of former NFL quarterback Archie Manning, and the nephew of Super Bowl champions Peyton and Eli Manning. Arch committed to The University of Texas in 2023 and is listed as a redshirt freshman for the 2024 season.

The Manning football lineage

Arch’s grandfather, Archie Manning, played for the Ole Miss Rebels and had a 14-season NFL career from 1971 to 1982, primarily with the New Orleans Saints. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1989.

His uncle, Peyton Manning, played for the Tennessee Volunteers in college and enjoyed a successful NFL career after being the first overall pick by the Colts in the 1998 Draft. Peyton played for 18 seasons, with 14 for the Colts and 4 for the Broncos, clinching two Super Bowl titles—one in 2007 with the Colts and the other in 2016 with the Broncos.

Another uncle, Eli Manning, also played for the Ole Miss Rebels and was selected as the first overall pick in the 2004 NFL Draft by the San Diego Chargers before being traded to the Giants. Eli had a 16-season stint with New York, leading the Giants to two Super Bowl victories in 2008 and 2012.

Undeniably, the rich football legacy of the Manning family has greatly influenced Arch’s journey in football.