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Jon Gruden breaks down 'launching pad' for Arch Manning, what to expect

ns_headshot_2024-clearby: Nick Schultz10/18/25NickSchultz_7

After an up-and-down start to the season, Arch Manning got a marquee victory. He helped lead Texas to a Red River Rivalry victory over then-No. 6 Oklahoma at the Cotton Bowl, sealing it with a late scramble.

Manning had a strong day as he appeared to settle in throughout the game. To former NFL head coach Jon Gruden, it could be a pivotal moment in his season.

Gruden predicted the victory could be a “launching pad” for the former Five Star Plus+ recruit. Texas also used a strong running game led by Tre Wisner to get the win, but Manning also looked poised as he ran the offense. That’s why Gruden thinks big things could lying ahead.

“I like Arch,” Gruden said on Pardon My Take. “I think that was a signature win for him against Oklahoma. Down the stretch, they’re 10-for-13 on third down. The touchdown pass on 3rd and 8 from the 12-yard line. He ends the game with a scramble. I think that’s a great launching pad for Arch.”

Jon Gruden ‘never sold any stock’ in Arch Manning

Arch Manning went 21 of 27 for 166 yards and a touchdown in the air while rushing for 34 yards on the ground, including a 29-yarder. He established a strong connection with DeAndre Moore, who had three receptions for 50 yards and a touchdown.

But Gruden said he didn’t worry much about Manning amid the rocky start. After all, he started his time as Texas’ starter against Ohio State’s defense under new coordinator Matt Patricia, who came in from the NFL. That’s not easy, and Gruden thinks the Oklahoma win could be a point where Manning takes off.

“I’ve never sold any stock in him,” Gruden said. “I was disappointed, obviously, because the expectations are so high. And you open up at Ohio State against Matt Patricia. It’s not like Arch had a ton of tape to study on Matt Patricia. That’s about as hard as it gets for anybody. But I think this is going to be a great launching pad for Manning. I expect him to really take off now.”

Arch Manning will now get another chance to take a leap forward this week when Texas heads to Lexington to take on Kentucky at Kroger Field. Kickoff is set for Saturday at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN.