Why isn't Arch Manning playing? Exploring reasons behind getting benched in Week 2

Arch Manning has once again not started for Texas in Week 2. The Longhorns are going against national champion Michigan on the road today, following their 52-0 win over Colorado State Rams in Week 1.

While many fans are looking to see Arch Manning lead the Longhorns’ offense as a starter, they will have to wait a bit longer. Senior Quinn Ewers was named Texas' starting quarterback ahead of the Season, retaining the role he has held for the past two seasons.

Manning is expected to be named Texas' starting quarterback next season after Ewers' transition to the NFL. Nonetheless, he's expected to see more action this season than the last after being named the backup option following the exit of Maalik Murphy.

---

Steve Sarkisian says Arch Manning and Quinn Ewers are getting along

While they were involved in the battle for the starting role during the offseason, Steve Sarkisian noted in July that Arch Manning and Quinn Ewers are getting along well, which brings positive energy to the team.

“These guys are great, great friends. Nobody gets along better," Sarkisian said (per ESPN). "There's a real level of appreciation for what each guy is doing. Because they know the journey, they know the path, they know how we coach him.”

“From Archer's perspective, he's watching Quinn have to go through some of the adversity, having a fight through injury, having to deal with the criticism of being the quarterback of Texas, so to see him have success, I think Arch is fired up for Quinn.”

Having Ewers and Manning at the same time gives Texas a lot of depth at quarterback. This will help the Longhorns navigate the season seamlessly as they aim for the national title.

---

Steve Sarkisian gave his honest opinion on Arch Manning's Week 1 performance

Arch Manning delivered a solid performance against Colorado State, going 5-for-6 for 95 yards and a touchdown. However, the lone incompletion was a topic of debate, and perhaps even a point of contention, between Sarkisian and Manning as they review the game and strive for perfection.

“I coached Arch harder than anything on his last incomplete pass on the fourth down because it was a misread, so just because he had some success and he was 5-for-5 before that. When mistakes occur, we have to coach him and we have to be demanding,” Sarkisian said (per LoneStarLive.com).

This season is undoubtedly a learning process for Manning at Texas. He's bound to gain a lot of experience this season ahead of the 2025 season where he's anticipated to be a starter.