Archie Manning shares biggest difference in attending grandson Arch's games vs. sons Peyton, Eli

Archie Manning saw a lot of football in his post-playing days with Cooper, Peyton and Eli. Now, it’s Arch’s turn at full capacity.

Arch Manning is entering his first full year as the starting quarterback at Texas. His grandfather will be in attendance when he can and there’s some differences to watching his grandson, as compared to his sons from high school all the way through the pros.

Sure, it’s the same in some regards. But if Archie Manning ever gets nervous, he won’t be able to turn away this time!

“I haven’t been to many. Probably the same,” Archie Manning said. “Probably the biggest difference. I used to go to games, especially pro games, I’d get up and pace a little bit. I’d get up and walk around. I can’t do that anymore. I don’t get around that good. I’m gonna just sit there and bear it. But we just, we’re excited for Arch. We’re proud of him. I’m so proud of the way he’s handled things that are going on. There’s a lot going on, you know, and throwing a lot at him that he doesn’t have anything to do with. It’s just outside stuff. But it is what it is. But hopefully the main thing for Arch is I hope he can stay healthy. I think he’ll be fine.”

Whenever Archie Manning attends games, Arch will certainly know he’s there. Yes, it’s a famous football family, but they put the emphasis on family.

“We’re really close,” the young QB said. “Like I said, he came over to the house all the time. Went to all my practices in high school. He texts me every single morning no matter what. So he’s just the perfect role model for me. Such a great guy and this camp kind of shows the person he is.”

It’s the little motivational things or life advice that resonates with Arch Manning the most. Such as a text message that Archie sends all his grandkids every morning that has a bible verse attached with it.

“The game has changed so much,” Arch said. “Guys were in three-point stance at receiver when he played. So the game’s changed. But he’ll still remind me of simple things. Being a leader, being a good teammate, run from drill to drill and just reminds me to be a good guy.”

Texas opens the season August 30th on the road. They’ll take on the defending national champions Ohio State to kickoff 2025.