ESPN's Marty Smith predicts 'Tim Tebow level of hysteria' for Arch Manning as a starter in 2025

Texas is set to move into the Arch Manning era following a 2024 season that saw the team crash out of the College Football Playoffs in the semifinals for the second straight year.

Expectations could not be higher.

Joining the Paul Finebaum Show on Thursday, ESPN’s Marty Smith provided his expectations for the Arch Manning era after getting a chance to sit down with the young, up-and-coming gunslinger.

“It’s going to be Tim Tebow level of hysteria this fall when we go to Austin, Texas, when he is behind center full time for the first time,” Smith said. “It’s going to be like it was with Tebow at Florida. Everywhere they go they’re going to be rock stars. And that is what I anticipate, and I think that’s what we’re going to see.”

It’s been a while since a player commanded the kind of public spectacle that Tebow did everywhere he went. But there’s little doubt that Arch Manning has the name pedigree and the wide recognition to be on that level.

He’s already experienced that, with calls for him to start in the midst of Texas’ playoff run.

To his credit, Arch Manning never did anything to undermine his teammate, Quinn Ewers. In fact, he was abundantly supportive, both publicly and behind closed doors. Now the job is his.

Smith asked Manning in a 17-minute sit-down interview to reflect on the start of his journey in college.

“I haven’t really played much, so I guess it really hasn’t started,” Manning said. “But it’s been fun, I’ve enjoyed it. I’ve learned a lot. I love my coaches, love my teammates. So I’m ready to get it rolling for sure.”

Then he added more.

“I mean I haven’t done anything,” he said.

Arch Manning, for his part, threw for 939 yards with nine touchdowns and two interceptions this past season, taking over in relief for Ewers when the veteran was hurt and playing some in mop-up duty. The potential for so much more is there.

Any goals for the 2025 season, generally?

“I hope we’re national champions,” Manning said. “I want to play well, win each game, put our offense in opportunities to score every drive. I think team goals come with individual success. Or team success comes with individual accolades. So I’m all about the team right now.”

A pretty good attitude if you’re looking to keep the playoff machine humming right along.