The anticipation surrounding Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns reaches its peak as they kick off the 2025 season against defending champion Ohio State in Columbus on August 30, marking the first time in the program’s storied history that Texas enters as the No. 1 team in the preseason AP Poll. A loss in this high-stakes opener shouldn’t spark panic unless Manning, the Heisman favorite, struggles significantly, but a victory would ignite the Longhorns’ fanbase, hungry for their first national championship since 2005.
With a nation-leading 25-5 record over the past two seasons but back-to-back semifinal losses in the College Football Playoff, Texas leans on a stout defense and Manning’s dual-threat ability. Despite just two career starts (939 passing yards, nine touchdowns, 67.8% completion rate, 108 rushing yards, and four scores), Manning’s time learning under coach Steve Sarkisian has him poised to shine. A standout season could cement him as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, following in the footsteps of his uncles, Peyton and Eli Manning.
Arch Manning’s Top Five NFL Quarterbacks Revealed
In an interview with Complex Sports, Arch Manning shared his vision of becoming one of football’s all-time greats, a mindset fitting for a former five-star recruit now leading the top-ranked Longhorns. When asked to name his top five NFL quarterbacks of all time, Manning offered a list that stirred debate: Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes, Peyton Manning, Drew Brees, and Eli Manning.
He described them as “all dogs, with completions, winners, and pros all around.” While his inclusion of Eli raised eyebrows, Manning admitted his uncle’s spot was partly sentimental, saying, “He’s the weakest on the list, but he’s family, so I had to include him.” Despite limited snaps, Manning’s poise under pressure and his bold rankings reflect his confidence as he prepares to face Ohio State in a game that could define his legacy.
Breaking Down Manning’s Elite QB Picks
Manning’s top five NFL quarterbacks list is stacked with legends, each with remarkable achievements. Tom Brady tops the list with seven Super Bowl rings, five Super Bowl MVPs, and 15 Pro Bowl selections, setting the gold standard.
Patrick Mahomes, at just 29, is already a three-time Super Bowl champion and MVP is poised to potentially surpass all others if his trajectory holds. Peyton Manning, Arch’s uncle, earned five NFL MVPs, two Super Bowl titles, and 71,940 career passing yards, cementing his top-tier status.
Drew Brees, with 80,358 passing yards and a Super Bowl MVP, holds the record for most career completions (7,142). Eli Manning, despite being the “weakest” per Arch, won two Super Bowls, famously defeating Brady twice, with 57,023 passing yards and four Pro Bowl nods. As Arch aims for the NFL, Mahomes is the only active quarterback on his list he could face, adding intrigue to his future.
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