Arch Manning reveals specific aspects of his game he has focused on in summer

Arch Manning is stepping into a new role this season for the Texas Longhorns. After being the third-string quarterback as a true freshman and backup last year, the time for Manning to get first-team reps has arrived. With this comes different responsibilities, both on and off the field.

For the most part, the big chunk of Manning’s offseason work has come away from the Xs and Os. He said leadership has been his priority in recent times. Becoming the new face of a program is not an easy task, so Manning has wanted to get ahead on the process before taking the field on Aug. 30 against Ohio State.

“Just leadership skills and getting the guys to rally around me and serve them,” Manning said recently at the Manning Passing Academy. “That’s what I’ve been working on this offseason.”

Even with Quinn Ewers — and even Maalik Murphy — on campus, Manning has been the center of attention at times. As much as the former Five-Star Plus+ prospect attempted to stay out of the spotlight, his name is as popular as any. Not just with fans but teammates as well.

Going to St. Louis with Ryan Wingo might be the latest example. Wingo went back home to run a camp at St. Louis University, the high school he graduated from not too long ago. Manning was there to help out and support somebody who could be his top wide receiver in the fall.

Certainly one of the first public displays of the leadership Manning has shown with Texas. A little bit different than what transpired throughout the 2023 and 2024 season as a backup.

“You’re a little bit behind the scenes,” Manning said. “Talking to guys one-on-one. This year, it’s nice. Full throttle being the guy. Blessed to be in this position.”

There is a lot to like about Manning’s football abilities. His two spot starts in place of an injured Ewers bring a ton of optimism after a lofty recruiting ranking. Manning is among the favorites to be in the Heisman Trophy race, if not win the whole thing.

Making sure the leadership aspect is down was a big priority, though. Texas is in a position where a push for a national championship could be on. College football seasons can be grueling at times and when it gets tough, somebody emerges at the top. Manning strives to be that guy for the Longhorns.