Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian made a comment about Arch Manning that is concerning for the Tennessee Vols
Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns are set to take on the Tennessee Volunteers this weekend in Knoxville.
One of the big keys to the matchup in Knoxville this weekend between Texas and Tennessee is the play of Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning.
Manning has struggled at times to live up to the hype that comes with his last name — he was shaky in the Longhorns’ win against UTSA last weekend, for example.
The talent, though, is undeniable. Manning has all the tools to be a star at the next level. It’s just a matter of putting it all together.
I think Manning’s biggest issue has been mental. I think he’s pressed at times instead of just playing his game. Which is understandable — he’s had to deal with a lot of outside noise during his career.
Eventually, I think everything is going to click for Manning and he’s going to play free, at which point we’ll see his production take off.
Could that be this weekend against Tennessee?
No one knows for sure, but there are signs that it could be.
On Thursday, Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian praised Manning’s preparation this week and said that he expects the quarterback to come out “guns blazing” against Tennessee.
“I don’t think he’s been different (this week),” said Sarkisian. “I think he’s been dialed into his prep — mental, physical, and emotional — and his connection with the receivers and any little nuances that were changing schematically. He’s getting those extra reps with those guys and throwing post-practice. So I anticipate him coming out guns blazing, ready to go.”
Tennessee will be looking to be disruptive against Manning early in the game. The last thing the Vols want is for him to get some confidence early.
We’ll see on Saturday if this is the week that it all clicks for Manning or whether the Vols can make him look shaky once again.
