Arch Manning's struggles at Texas may be reaching a potential crossroads. Sources say the Longhorns are expected to give redshirt freshman KJ Lacey Jr. an uptick in first-team quarterback reps this week in practice, a shift that signals a greater possibility of Lacey replacing Manning if he struggles when No. 19 Texas hosts No. 7 Ole Miss on Saturday.
Coach Steve Sarkisian said Monday that Manning remains the starter, but that the Longhorns need to see improvement. "Arch can play better for us," Sarkisian said. "He's our starter. But I need a better version of Arch Manning." Sarkisian said he had a good meeting with Manning, who he said came out with a chip on his shoulder that he appreciated. He also said he felt Texas missed opportunities in the passing game for explosive plays and that his own play-calling needs evaluation.
Manning has had a rough stretch. He threw two crucial fourth-quarter interceptions against Oklahoma and struggled against Florida, completing 14 of 20 passes for 173 yards and fumbling in the final two minutes. Manning is 10th in the SEC in completion percentage (63.9%) and has five interceptions. Texas, now 5-2, has also struggled to run the ball, ranking third worst in the SEC in rushing.
Lacey, who has nine career pass attempts, drew a comparison from Sarkisian to Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young. Sarkisian was noncommittal about whether Lacey would see more than his usual reps. Meanwhile, star pass rusher Colin Simmons is not expected to play against Ole Miss due to a high ankle sprain.
Source: ESPN General · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing