Paul Finebaum keeps Arch Manning firmly in Heisman race after Week 2

Arch Manning had a shot at redemption on Saturday. And he delivered as Texas defeated San Jose State 38-7 during Week 2.

Manning’s performance was as advertised against the Spartans, putting the game out of reach early as most of his production came during the first half. Following Saturday’s showing, Paul Finebaum declared that he’s “all in” on Arch Manning and his potential Heisman campaign moving forward.

“I know the critics are going to ridicule me, but I don’t care anymore, guys. I am staying with Arch Manning,” Finebaum said during SportsCenter on Sunday morning. “He has not been perfect, but — the Heisman doesn’t get voted on until December. So, let’s (quit) all this ‘He’s out of the Heisman race after a bad loss.’ He can come back. I think yesterday was exactly what he needed, and keep your eye on him.

“Remember the name Arch Manning. Remember the name.”

Manning was the subject of major criticism across the board after Week 1. The first-year starting quarterback struggled to find a rhythm against Ohio State, who would eventually defeat the Longhorns 14-7 in Columbia. The Texas QB finished the game with 170 passing yards, a touchdown and an interception.

While Saturday’s game against San Jose State might not stack up competition-wise as the Buckeyes did, it provided Manning an opportunity to gain some of his confidence back after the loss. He cashed in on that opportunity, finishing Week 2 with 295 passing yards to go with four touchdowns and an interception. All four of his passing touchdowns came in the first half.

He also ran another touchdown in on a 20-yard rush in the third quarter, making him responsible for every touchdown Texas scored on Saturday. With Texas’ upcoming games being against the likes of UTEP (1-1) and Sam Houston (0-3), Manning will likely have two more opportunities to produce similar numbers before having to buckle up for SEC play beginning Oct. 4 against Florida.

By then, Texas will hope that Manning has recovered from his struggles during the season opener and that he’s ready to win the Longhorns some big-time matchups down the stretch. As it stands, Texas has four ranked matchups left on their schedule. Although, that’s always subject to change week to week.

With Manning in rhythm after Week 2, he’ll look to duplicate his performance on Saturday at home against UTEP. Kickoff is slated for 4:15 p.m. ET live on the SEC Network.