Greg McElroy Names an Elite SEC QB 'Poised For Stardom'

Greg McElroy Names an Elite SEC QB 'Poised For Stardom' originally appeared on Athlon Sports.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning might have the most recognizable name in college football, but that fame hasn’t come with the usual fast track to stardom.

In fact, heading into the 2025 season, the redshirt sophomore signal-caller has only two career starts under his belt. Yet the expectations surrounding Manning have never been higher.

During his "Always College Football" podcast, former Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback Greg McElroy broke down his preseason top 10 and slotted Texas at No. 4.

Despite Manning’s limited game experience, McElroy sees something special brewing in Austin, and he said Manning is about to break out in a big way.

Greg McElroy Says Arch Manning Is Ready to Shine

McElroy praised Manning not just for his pedigree, but for his mentality. The former five-star recruit was a top prospect in the 2023 class and drew national attention as the nephew of former NFL stars Peyton and Eli Manning.

But it’s not just the name that impresses McElroy. It’s the way Manning has approached his development.

McElroy called Manning “poised for stardom,” noting the maturity with which he has handled pressure and competition. Last season, Manning passed for 939 yards, nine scores and two interceptions.

While the sample size is small, his command of the offense and athletic ability stood out. McElroy said he believes that with a year of growth and a strong supporting cast, Manning is in a prime position to lead Texas on a deep run in their first season back in the SEC.

Texas’ Star Power and Coaching Continuity Set the Stage

McElroy made clear that his confidence in Texas isn’t solely about Manning. He repeatedly praised the continuity on Steve Sarkisian’s coaching staff, particularly the chemistry between Sarkisian and offensive line coach Kyle Flood, and the leadership of defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski. That consistency, McElroy argued, has enabled Texas to establish a program with a strong identity and a roster full of elite talent.

On defense, sophomore linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. returns as an All-American candidate after posting 113 tackles, 17 for loss, and eight sacks in 2024.

EDGE Colin Simmons and transfer Trey Moore bring added explosiveness, while safety Michael Taaffe anchors the secondary. McElroy went as far as to say this could be the best defense in the country.

The only true concern he raised was the offensive line, especially the inexperience at center with Cole Hudson, who has never played the position in live action. But McElroy maintained that the overall talent is championship caliber.

Texas opens the season against the Ohio State Buckeyes in what could be Manning’s first marquee test as the Longhorns' full-time starter. The game is at noon ET Aug. 30 and will be televised by Fox Sports.

Related: "You Know What The Answer Is": Paul Finebaum Names Obvious Choice for Heisman Trophy

Related: Arch Manning’s Brother Had One Word After Texas Scholarship News Emerges

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 7, 2025, where it first appeared.