Is Arch Manning underrated? That’s the debate heating up after his surprising spot in a recent ranking of college football’s top quarterbacks. While Locked on Longhorns broke down the list, Texas fans weren’t thrilled. Many expected Manning to be ranked higher. But now, the question is clear—did ESPN miss the mark, or does Manning still have more to prove?

Well, ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg just dropped his top 15 QBs in CFB or 2025 ranking, and let’s just say—it sparked some debate. Instead of relying on his own opinion, he tapped into insights from over a dozen coaches and coordinators nationwide. At least, that’s what he claims. But here’s the shocker—Arch Manning didn’t even crack the top 10!

That’s right? Manning being a Heisman frontrunner (2nd-best odds), Rittenberg placed him lower than expected. So now, a Texas insider is firing back, pushing hard against what they’re calling blatant Arch Manning disrespect.

On the March 29th episode of Locked on Longhorns, Texas insider Brad Kellner dropped a bold take on Arch Manning’s ranking, stating, “He made the cut, but he’s a lot lower than I expected—probably lower than you’d expect too.” As of now, with the second-best Heisman odds and Texas sitting as a top title contender, you’d think Manning would be ranked much higher. So, what gives?

Kellner didn’t hold back and said, “Adam Rittenberg has Manning at 12th—behind guys like Kevin Jennings at SMU, DJ Lagway at Florida, and Haynes King at Georgia Tech.” Now, that’s a tough pill to swallow for Longhorns fans. With Manning’s talent and Texas’ championship hopes, is this ranking fair? Or is he being seriously overlooked? That’s the billion-dollar question.

Look, Kevin Jennings lit up SMU’s offense with 3,245 yards, 23 TDs, and a 70.3 QBR, ranking 39th nationally. Meanwhile, Haynes King was efficient for Georgia Tech, tossing 2,114 yards, 14 TDs, and just two picks, boasting a 72.9% completion rate and a 78.6 QBR (13th nationally). Although DJ Lagway’s full-season stats remain a mystery, he stole the show in the Gasparilla Bowl, earning MVP honors with 305 yards and a TD.

Now, Arch Manning? He played in 10 games for Texas, starting two, and threw for 939 yards with a 67.8% completion rate. Although Jennings and King had more reps and bigger numbers, Manning’s flashes of brilliance can’t be ignored. On top of that, Lagway’s bowl game proved he’s got the tools, even if the full picture isn’t clear yet.

As of now, according to Brad Kellner, Arch Manning’s ranking among CFB’s top QBs is stirring debate. Some say he’s underrated. Others believe he still has more to prove. Should he be higher? Should he be lower? That question looms large as the season nears. However, now, Steve Sarkisian’s future is under the microscope. With Manning’s status in question, the pressure is mounting in Austin.

Texas relies on Arch Manning

All eyes are on Arch Manning as the Longhorns kick off spring practice. Entering his second season, the spotlight is brighter than ever. Right now, with a legendary last name and sky-high expectations, he’s primed to take over as QB1. His family legacy? Unmatched. And his potential is off the charts. Following that, many believe he could be a serious contender for the 2025 Heisman Trophy. So now, it’s time to prove it on the field.

But here comes the concern—the shaky ground for the Longhorns. And Brad put it best, saying, “I’ll just say it right now—if Arch Manning isn’t a top 11 QB in college football next year, the Longhorns are going to take a step back.” But why? “You’ve got games at Ohio State and at Georgia on the schedule, and of course, another year in the SEC. Like, they need Arch to be as close to as advertised,” said Brad. So, while the pressure is real, Steve Sarkisian’s Texas can’t afford to miss a step.

However, Brad Kellner kept it real, stating, “I’m not saying he needs to win the Heisman. I’m not saying he needs to be in New York as a finalist for the Heisman Trophy. But if Texas is going to be able to overcome everything that it lost last year—I mean, the Longhorns are about to have 14, maybe 15, maybe 16 players selected in the NFL Draft. They just had 21 players participate in Pro Day last week or this week. Uh, that was this Monday.” So, the message is clear—Texas is losing star power, and Manning has to step up.

Yes, Texas is losing firepower—on both sides of the ball. The offense is taking a big hit because 4 starters on the O-line are gone. Most important, key playmakers like Jaden Blue and Gunnar Helm are out. So, the Longhorns need Arch Manning to deliver—otherwise, Sarkisian’s future could be in serious jeopardy. However, Manning doesn’t just have to be good—he has to be one of the best. As of now, with a brutal schedule ahead, his performance could be the difference between a playoff run or a step back.