Steve Sarkisian believes Arch Manning deserves more praise, but Texas fans might be wondering what their quarterback has actually proven.
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian is once again defending quarterback Arch Manning, and his latest comments might be his most questionable yet.
Speaking about the criticism surrounding Manning, Sarkisian made a bold statement:
“If you took the name off the back of his jersey and you said here’s Joe Smith playing quarterback at the University of Texas, we’d be praising the guy.”
Seriously?
Let’s not pretend Manning is some underappreciated quarterback who has been unfairly overlooked. He entered college football with arguably more hype than any quarterback in recent memory, largely because of his famous last name.
And now Sarkisian wants everyone to believe that same last name is somehow holding him back?
The reality is that Manning hasn’t consistently delivered against elite competition. Texas recently suffered a disappointing 27-24 loss to Oklahoma, sending the Longhorns tumbling from No. 1 to No. 7 in the AP Poll.
For a quarterback surrounded by elite offensive talent, the expectations should be enormous. That’s what happens when you’re the face of one of college football’s biggest programs.
Nobody is saying Manning lacks talent. His athleticism, arm strength, and potential are undeniable. However, potential and production are two completely different things.
Sarkisian can defend his quarterback all he wants, but eventually the excuses need to stop.
If Arch Manning’s last name were Smith, would we really be praising him? Or would we be questioning why Texas’ highly touted quarterback hasn’t consistently delivered in the biggest moments?
That’s the question Sarkisian should be answering.
