“Kind of Like His Grandfather Archie”: Nick Saban Praises Arch Manning After Texas-Louisiana Matchup
Nick Saban, the legendary head coach of the Alabama Crimson Tide, has seen and coached countless elite players throughout his illustrious career. However, when Saban speaks highly of a young prospect, the football world pays attention. This was the case when Saban was reportedly left impressed by Arch Manning, the talented young quarterback and grandson of NFL Hall of Famer Archie Manning, during Texas’ matchup against Louisiana.
Arch Manning, a highly-touted prospect and now a freshman quarterback for the Texas Longhorns, has carried the weight of a famous football legacy on his shoulders. With a last name synonymous with quarterback greatness, Arch’s performances are scrutinized not just for his potential, but for how he compares to his legendary family members.
Saban’s admiration for Arch Manning during the Texas-Louisiana game sheds light on how the young quarterback is carving out his own identity while honoring his family’s storied tradition.
The Manning family is one of the most iconic dynasties in football history. Archie Manning set the foundation with a stellar career at Ole Miss and in the NFL. His sons, Peyton and Eli Manning, carried the torch, becoming Super Bowl champions and future Hall of Famers.
Now, the spotlight is on Arch Manning, the son of Cooper Manning, who has shown immense promise from an early age. Arch’s high school career was nothing short of remarkable. At Isidore Newman School in New Orleans, he broke records and showcased the poise, arm strength, and football IQ that runs in the Manning bloodline.
When Arch committed to the University of Texas, it sent shockwaves through the college football world. Choosing Texas over powerhouse programs like Alabama and Georgia, Arch demonstrated his willingness to embrace a challenge and help revive a storied program.
Nick Saban, who has won more national championships than any other coach in college football history, has an eye for identifying greatness. During the Texas-Louisiana game, Saban was reportedly struck by how Arch Manning’s performance evoked memories of his grandfather, Archie.
“Kind of like his grandfather Archie,” Saban remarked. “You can see that football instinct, that calmness under pressure. It’s rare to see that in a young quarterback, but Arch has it.”
Saban’s observation highlights the unique traits that set Arch Manning apart. Archie Manning was known for his mobility, creativity, and ability to make plays even in the toughest situations. Arch appears to have inherited those qualities while also developing his own modern style of quarterbacking.
While Arch Manning hasn’t yet claimed the starting role at Texas, his performance in limited action during the Louisiana game turned heads. Displaying composure and confidence, he made accurate throws, demonstrated mobility in the pocket, and executed plays with precision.
Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian has praised Arch’s work ethic and readiness, noting that he’s already contributing to the team’s competitive culture. Sarkisian’s system, which emphasizes quarterback play, provides the perfect environment for Arch to develop into a potential star.
The Louisiana game showcased glimpses of what could be a bright future for Manning. Despite not starting, his poise and ability to manage the game were evident. Observers, including Saban, couldn’t help but notice the resemblance to his grandfather’s style of play—adaptable, instinctive, and resilient.
As Arch Manning continues to grow in Texas’ program, expectations remain high. With his pedigree and talent, many believe he could be the quarterback to lead Texas back to national prominence.
However, the journey won’t be without challenges. The competition within the Longhorns’ quarterback room is fierce, and Arch must prove himself on the field to earn the starting job. If his performance against Louisiana is any indication, he’s well on his way to doing just that.
Nick Saban’s admiration for Arch Manning carries weight, not just because of his reputation but because of his connection to the Manning family. Saban has often spoken highly of Archie, Peyton, and Eli Manning, and his respect for their football acumen is well-documented.
Saban’s comparison of Arch to his grandfather is particularly meaningful. It suggests that Arch is not just living up to the family name but also forging his own path in a way that honors his lineage.
Arch Manning’s journey is just beginning, but the early reviews are glowing. Nick Saban’s praise, rooted in decades of evaluating elite talent, is a testament to Arch’s potential and his resemblance to the qualities that made Archie Manning a legend.
As Arch continues to develop at Texas, the football world will watch closely. If his performance against Louisiana is any indication, the Longhorns—and college football—are witnessing the rise of the next great Manning quarterback.