Arch Manning dispels rumors of transferring from Texas

Arch Manning dispelled any rumors that he could transfer from Texas. With Maalik Murphy out and Quinn Ewers potentially returning in 2024, Manning could look elsewhere.

Instead, he’s ready to continue his development in Austin. He made that clear ahead of the College Football Playoff.

Manning is set to backup Ewers in the semifinals against Washington.

“Obviously there’s always rumors, especially nowadays,” Manning said. “I haven’t looked into transferring at all. I’m just focused on developing and helping this team any way I can and hopefully one day playing for the University of Texas like I’ve always wanted to.”

Murphy was the backup all season, sitting behind Ewers. Not being with the program anymore, the spot is open heading into the Sugar Bowl against Washington.

It’s a next-man-up mentality for Steve Sarkisian, with Manning getting a bump in the depth chart.

“Arch is the backup for this game,” Sarkisian said. “He’s more than capable than playing really good football for us. I think the opportunity he had to play here against Tech showed what he’s capable of.”

You might see a freshman destination next to Manning’s name but it’s not the mentality Texas will have with the quarterback moving forward. Manning has been on campus since January and by the kickoff in New Orleans, it will be a full year. Taking the next step while on the biggest stage is how Sarkisian wants Manning to approach his recent promotion.

“We’ll get him prepared to play,” Sarkisian said. “I joked with him the other day like ‘You’re not really a freshman anymore. This is your sophomore year now. So, what would it look like going into your sophomore year and preparing to play?’ That’s what we’re doing.”

Manning threw just five passes against Texas Tech, completing two of them for a total of seven yards. On the ground, three rush attempts went for seven yards.

Not the best stats on paper but Manning was out there looking composed and did lead a touchdown drive late in the fourth quarter. Nobody in Texas will be hoping Manning has to play a competitive snap, wanting Ewers to stay healthy the rest of the way.

Griffin McVeigh contributed to this report