Arch Manning receives powerful message from grandfather Archie ahead of 2025 NCAAF season

Arch Manning was chosen by Sarkisian to become the new starting QB for the Texas Longhorns for the upcoming NCAAF season, something that seemed inevitable after Ewers’ departure to the NFL. His grandfather Archie, a man with plenty of experience in the game, is well aware of his grandson’s talent and made clear his only wish for him heading into what lies ahead.

Comparisons to his uncles, Peyton and Eli, are inevitable, though it’s a debate Archie himself prefers to stay out of. However, there will be one clear difference: His grandfather’s presence at Longhorns games might not be as frequent as it once was during the days when his sons played in the NFL, but it will still carry special meaning whenever he’s in the stands.

Still, Archie made it clear to the press that he believes in his grandson’s talent to take control of the game, and that the only thing he truly hopes for is that Arch stays as healthy as possible.

“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.

Arch Manning #16 of the Texas Longhorns looks on prior to a game against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Bryant-Denny Stadium on September 09, 2023 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

“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.”

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The special bond between Arch and his grandfather

It’s well known that Arch Manning shares a strong bond with his grandfather, Archie—who, in many ways, was the one to instill in him a love for this beautiful game. In a recent statement to the press, the young quarterback opened up about what his family means to him at this stage in his journey.

“We’re really close,” the talented 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.”

He also shared some of the advice his grandfather has given him over the years: “The game has changed so much,” the Longhorns QB 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.”