Arch Manning has the pedigree, the talent, and the support to etch his legacy into the archives of college football. Now all he has to do is prove it on the field.
The nephew of legendary quarterbacks Peyton and Eli Manning has the starting job at the University of Texas and before the season even begins people are comparing him to legends of the past.
Analyst Paul Finebaum on the SEC Network laid out why Manning reminds him of a Heisman trophy winner who also took two college football championships as a Florida Gator.
"[Arch Manning] is the best player we have seen from every aspect since Tim Tebow," Finebaum said. "Maybe he hasn't proven it yet but in terms of magic and majesty and buzz that's where we are."
The most entertaining part of the comparison? Tebow was a few feet away at the same desk with his live reaction.
"Magic and majesty? We're just playing a game," Tebow chuckled.
Arch Manning warming up ahead of Texas vs Ohio State 🤘 pic.twitter.com/om4XdsXbMP
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) August 30, 2025
The former Gator went on to hail Manning's humility and leadership ahead of the season opener against the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Tebow, who is regarded as one of the greatest players in college football history, is a high bar to reach even for a player like Manning. He has yet to lead Texas for an entire season as the starter but has already garnered praise similar to Finebaum's remarks.
It's a lot of pressure to put on a 21-year-old but because of his family Manning is used to the sharp attention of the spotlight.
He'll have the opportunity to prove these comments right, or wrong, as the season goes on.
MORE: Why Arch Manning was backup QB for two years, didn’t transfer from Texas