Arch Manning on his relationship with Quinn Ewers: 'We're good friends'

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As Texas made its run to the College Football Playoffs a year ago, one of the most ballyhooed players in college football sat watching from the sidelines. Arch Manning knows he’ll get his shot eventually, but first he’ll have to be patient.

You don’t just jump a guy like Quinn Ewers, the quarterback who captained the Longhorns to that playoff appearance.

But patience seems to suit Manning just fine as he continues to prepare for his sophomore season on the 40 Acres. The fact that he has a very healthy relationship with Ewers definitely helps.

“He’s been great, learning under him, just the way he goes about his business and attacks his preparation,” Arch Manning told On3’s Shea Dixon at the Manning Passing Academy on Friday. “I’m thrilled that I’ve been learning from such a good guy. He carries himself in a good manner and we’re good friends, so it’s been awesome.”

Ewers was phenomenal a year ago and should be one of the early favorites to win the Heisman Trophy in 2024. Of course, a big part of getting into the thick of the race will be managing an SEC schedule for the first time.

Still, the numbers are hard to ignore. Ewers threw for 3,479 yards and 222 touchdowns against just six interceptions. He also ran for five scores.

If he can improve upon those numbers, the sky is the limit for Texas. Of course, Arch Manning feels that should anything happen to Ewers he’ll also be able to step right in and fill the void.

“Obviously I feel like I’m getting better every day, so just trying to stay ready,” he said. “Anything could happen. So I’m excited and I’m going to be ready.”

Expectations are high for Manning thanks to his lofty recruiting ranking coming out of high school. He was the No. 1 overall prospect in the 2023 recruiting class, rankings as the top quarterback nationally.

There’s also the family background. He’s the grandson of Archie Manning, the son of Cooper Manning and the nephew of Peyton and Eli Manning. Big shoes to fill, but Arch Manning insists he’s ready.