Nick Saban reveals the biggest reason for Arch Manning turnaround after slow start to 2025

Arch Manning has turned his season around in the last few weeks. In turn, his Longhorns back in contention for the College Football Playoff heading into Week 12.

At one point, Texas was 3-2 and dropped out of the rankings altogether after being ranked No. 1 in the preseason AP poll. Now 7-2, the Longhorns’ run has largely been attributed to the success Manning has had under center. Nick Saban broke down what’s changed for the first-year starting quarterback over the past several weeks.

“I think the last two weeks, Arch has played really, really well,” Saban said on ESPN College GameDay. “And I think the reason for that is for whatever reasons, whether it was lack of confidence in the O-line or whatever. He played in a hurry. There was no rhythm, and it affected his footwork and accuracy and all kinds of things. … So, now you’re going to see him do it correctly. (He) stands in the pocket, good footwork, good form, reads it out.”

So, what’s changed? Saban had an easy answer, and it’s all about Manning’s chemistry with his blockers up front.

“I think he’s got more confidence in the offensive line,” Saban said. “Which means he’s going to have more time, which means he doesn’t have to hurry up, and he can play with rhythm.”

The Longhorns are set to take on Georgia in a top-10 matchup that will have a major impact on both the SEC and College Football Playoff race. Texas’ success against the Bulldogs will be heavily relied on how Manning plays against the Georgia defense.

“With (Steve Sarkisian), because they don’t run the ball great, they have to have all these advantage throws built in,” Saban continued. “So (Manning) has got to throw on time, and he’s got to be accurate. Georgia has not been able to affect the quarterback significantly this year like they have in the past. Arch is going to have time. He doesn’t need to get in a hurry. Needs to play with rhythm. Take what the defense gives, and I think they can have success.”

Kickoff between the Longhorns and Bulldogs is set for 7:30 p.m. ET. The blockbuster matchup in the SEC will air live on ABC. Georgia has won its last five matchups heading into the game and look to avoid losing two games inside Sanford Stadium in the same season since 2020.