Story perspectives

Arch Manning’s slump sparks transfer-portal concerns

By Drooid · Oct 21, 2026, 10:49 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Sarkisian Evaluates Manning

Coach Steve Sarkisian will evaluate quarterback Arch Manning after recent losses.
Practice staff increased redshirt freshman K.J. Lacey Jr.’s first-team reps, suggesting a possible benching.
Pro Football Focus gave Manning a 43.3 grade, ranking him 117th in Week 7.
NFL scouts project Manning as a third- or fourth-round pick, No. 21 on Renner’s board.
Analysts warn a continued slump could push Manning into the transfer portal before season’s end.

Summary

Golding Defends Manning

Ole Miss coach Pete Golding called claims Manning isn’t elite ‘crazy’ and defended his talent.
Golding said a 25-play highlight reel could prove Manning a top NFL draft pick.
Golding noted Texas’ offensive scheme would stay familiar even if a quarterback change occurs.
Ole Miss (No. 7) will host Texas (No. 18) on Oct. 24 at 6:30 p.m. on ABC.

History

Historical Context

Texas’ 2005 season, capped by Vince Young’s 467-yard performance in the Jan. 4, 2006 Rose Bowl that secured the Longhorns’ first national title since 1970, turned a quarterback’s spotlight into recruiting power. That precedent echoes today’s Arch Manning saga at Ole Miss, where coaches Steve Sarkisian and Pete Golding weigh benching amid transfer-portal speculation.

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Sarkisian Evaluates Manning

Coach Steve Sarkisian will evaluate quarterback Arch Manning after recent losses.
Practice staff increased redshirt freshman K.J. Lacey Jr.’s first-team reps, suggesting a possible benching.
Pro Football Focus gave Manning a 43.3 grade, ranking him 117th in Week 7.
NFL scouts project Manning as a third- or fourth-round pick, No. 21 on Renner’s board.
Analysts warn a continued slump could push Manning into the transfer portal before season’s end.

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