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Arch Manning Time in Austin

Written by Russell Dowden on . Posted in TEXAS SPORTS.

Arch Manning: It’s Finally His Time in Austin

Texas Longhorns fans have been waiting—and the wait is over. Arch Manning, the
redshirt‑sophomore and scion of football royalty, will step into the full‑time starting
quarterback role for the 2025 season. After spot starts and flashes of brilliance behind
Quinn Ewers, this is Manning’s moment to command the offense.

A Rise in the Spotlight

Manning made headlines last fall, stepping in for an injured Ewers in Week 4
against Louisiana–Monroe. He completed 15 of 29 passes for 258 yards, throwing two
touchdowns—despite two interceptions— and helped lead Texas to a commanding
51–3 victory. His deep-ball prowess impressed, connecting on several long gainers and
showing a glimpse of his high ceiling.

That debut performance sparked a surge in Longhorn jerseys—No. 16 sold out
across campus—signaling newfound excitement for Manning’s potential.

Photos: Pat Carrigan

Coaching Confidence & Team Energy

Head coach Steve Sarkisian has expressed strong support for Manning, urging
both Manning and the fanbase to enjoy this transition. “Let’s let this guy go play
this year…it’s finally his time,” Sarkisian said, emphasizing the importance of letting
Manning grow in this role.

Former starter Quinn Ewers has also chimed in, acknowledging the change:
“It’s Arch Manning time at Texas… the team can’t keep the former mega‑recruit on the bench,” noted Ewers on Reddit.

Living Up to the Manning Legacy

As the nephew of Peyton and Eli and grandson of Archie Manning, Arch carries a storied name.
Still, he’s working to establish his own identity in Austin—not merely riding the family brand.
He’s committed to Texas, dismissing talk of transferring and making it clear, “Nowhere else I want to be.”

Manning also reportedly passed up the chance to enter the NFL Draft after his junior year.
Sources indicate he’s aiming to stay through the 2027 draft cycle, opting to fully develop before turning pro.

SEC’s ‘New Top QB’
With Arch Manning now leading the Longhorns, preseason observers have taken note.
Texas enters 2025 ranked atop early SEC forecasts—specifically backed by analysts citing
Manning’s talent and Sarkisian’s offensive system.
youtube.com+12espn.com+12athlonsports.com+12

The excitement is real: campus atmosphere, growing jersey sales, and a coaching staff ready to
hand him the reigns—all signs that this could be the dawn of a Manning-era revival in Austin.

Texas Longhorns 2026 Football Preview: Wide Receivers & Tight Ends

Written by Tucker Stephenson on . Posted in UT FOOTBALL.

As the Texas Longhorns embark on the 2025 football season, the offense faces a significant transformation. With the departure of several key players, including wide receivers Isaiah Bond, Matthew Golden, and Silas Bolden, as well as tight end Gunner Helm, the team is looking to rebuild its receiving corps. Head coach Steve Sarkisian and offensive coordinator A.J. Milwee are tasked with integrating new talent and developing young players to maintain the team’s offensive prowess.
Wide Receivers
Ryan Wingo (So.)
A standout from St. Louis University High School, Wingo made an immediate impact as a freshman in 2024. He recorded 29 receptions for 472 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his ability to stretch the field. Standing at 6’2″ and 210 pounds, Wingo is expected to be the top target for quarterback Arch Manning in 2026.
DeAndre Moore Jr. (So.)
Moore emerged as a reliable option last season, finishing with 39 catches for 456 yards and seven touchdowns. His route-running precision and athleticism make him a valuable asset in the slot.
Kaliq Lockett (Fr.)
A five-star recruit from Sachse, Texas, Lockett is one of the most anticipated freshmen in the nation. In high school, he amassed over 2,000 receiving yards and 25 touchdowns. His blend of size (6’2″, 185 lbs) and speed positions him as a potential breakout star.
Emmett Mosley V (So.)
After transferring from Stanford, Mosley brings experience and depth to the receiving room. He made a notable debut in 2024 with seven receptions for 48 yards and a touchdown against Clemson.
Parker Livingstone (R-Fr.)
A red-shirt freshman, Livingstone has impressed during spring practices. His development will be crucial as the team looks to fill the void left by departing receivers.
Tight Ends
Jack Endries (Jr.)
A transfer from California, Endries adds experience and reliability to the tight end position. He led Cal with 56 receptions for 623 yards and two touchdowns in 2024.
Spencer Shannon (So.)
Known for his blocking abilities, Shannon is expected to contribute in both the passing and running games. His development as a route runner will be key to his increased role.
Jordan Washington (R-Fr.)
A red-shirt freshman, Washington has shown promise with his athleticism and potential as a pass-catching threat. His growth during the off-season will determine his impact in 2025.
Photo: UT Athletics

 

Projected Depth Chart
Wide Receiver (X):
Ryan Wingo (So.)
Emmett Mosley V (So.)
Parker Livingstone (R-Fr.)
Wide Receiver (Z):
DeAndre Moore Jr. (So.)
Kaliq Lockett (Fr.)
Jamie Ffrench (Fr.)
Slot Receiver (H):
DeAndre Moore Jr. (So.)
Kaliq Lockett (Fr.)
Emmett Mosley V (So.)
Tight End (Y):
Jack Endries (Jr.)
Spencer Shannon (So.)
Jordan Washington (R-Fr.)
Outlook
The 2026 season presents both challenges and opportunities for the Texas Longhorns’ receiving corps. With a mix of returning talent and promising newcomers, the team aims to maintain its offensive effectiveness. The development of young players like Lockett and Livingstone, combined with the experience of Wingo and Moore, will be pivotal in shaping the team’s success. As Arch Manning steps into the starting quarterback role, building chemistry with his receivers will be crucial for the Longhorns’ offensive strategy.

Earl Campbell, The Tyler Rose

Written by Russell Dowden on . Posted in TEXAS SPORTS, UT FOOTBALL.

Earl Campbell, known as The Tyler Rose, is not just a football icon—he is a powerhouse
figure in the history of the University of Texas at Austin. His name is etched into the heart of the
Forty Acres, where his legacy continues to inspire generations of Longhorns. From the moment
he stepped onto campus in the mid-1970s, Campbell brought more than just raw power to the
football field. He brought pride, hope, and national recognition to UT Austin and the city.
Born in Tyler, Texas, in 1955, Campbell came from humble beginnings. He is one of 11 children
raised by a single mother after the passing of his father. His high school football career at John
Tyler High was legendary, but it was his decision to stay in-state and attend UT Austin that
helped elevate the Longhorns program to new heights. At a time when African American athletes
were still fighting for equal recognition, Campbell became a symbol of excellence and
perseverance in Lone Star State football.

AUSTIN, TX – NOVEMBER 17: The Earl Campbell statue outside the stadium prior to start of Big XII game featuring the Texas Longhorns and the Iowa State Cyclones at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Texas. (Photo by John Rivera/Icon Sportswire)

Campbell played for the Longhorns from 1974 to 1977 under historic head coach Darrell K
Royal. From his freshman season onward, he made his presence felt with a rare combination of
speed, size, and elite physicality. By his senior year, Campbell reached his collegiate prime,
rushing for 1,744 yards and scoring 18 touchdowns in 1977. His dominance on the field earned
him the Heisman Trophy, making him the first Longhorn to win the award.
Campbell’s success helped elevate the national profile of UT Austin. The 1977 season placed
Texas back in the spotlight as a national title contender, with Campbell as the face of the
program. His Heisman win wasn’t just a personal accolade; it was a proud moment for the
university the represented the strength of Texas football and the caliber of athletes the school
could produce.

Beyond his statistics, Earl Campbell represented the values UT Austin strives to instill in all its
students: resilience, leadership, and excellence. His influence continues to be seen across
campus. The university has honored him with a statue at Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial
Stadium and no one else will ever wear his number 20 jersey. He remains involved with UT
Athletics and often returns for games and university events, serving as a mentor and role model
for current student-athletes and alums.

Even after his professional career with the Houston Oilers and New Orleans Saints, Campbell’s
bond with UT Austin has remained strong. Though his body has endured the toll of his physical
playing style—he’s been transparent about living with spinal stenosis—Campbell still uses his
platform to advocate for health awareness and support for former athletes.

Earl Campbell is more than a Hall of Famer; he is a pillar of UT Austin’s athletic identity. His
time on the Forty Acres was transformative not only for him, but for UT Austin itself. Today, the
spirit of Earl Campbell still runs through Texas Memorial Stadium every time the Longhorns
take the field.’

 

Image: Texas Athletics

Sport: Football (1974-77)
Position: Back
Inducted: 1988
Hometown: Tyler, Texas

 

• 1977 Heisman Trophy winner, when he led nation in rushing (1,744 yards)
• Rushed for 100-plus yards 10 times as a senior
• All-American in 1975 and 1977 and three-time All-SWC selection
• Team captain and team MVP in 1977
• Ended career with 4,443 rushing yards
• First pick in 1978 NFL draft by Houston Oilers
• Had stellar pro career with Houston Oilers and New Orleans Saints
• 1978 NFL Rookie of the Year and five-time All-Pro
• Career totals include 9,407 yards and 74 scores
• Member of NFL Hall of Fame
• Has served UT as Special Assistant to Vice President for Student Affairs since 19

Photo: UT Athletics

UT Women’s Basketball 2026 Season Preview

Written by Amaria Fields on . Posted in NCAA BASKETBALL.

The Texas Longhorns women’s basketball team are poised for an elite 2025-2026 season

Led by head coach Vic Schaefer, the Longhorns’ superstar, forward Madison Booker, who is the reigning SEC Player of the Year , and longtime point guard Rori Harmon brings back one of the most experienced back-courts in the country. The two are rounded it out by sophomore forward Justice Carlton, who can give the team another sure-thing post option and rim protector.

 

Although Texas suffered some roster losses through the transfer portal—most

notably Ndjakalenga Mwenentanda (now at Vanderbilt) and Laila Phelia (now at

Syracuse)—the Longhorns reloaded with a blend of transfers and incoming freshmen.

Among the biggest additions are Breya Cunningham, Teya Sidberry, and Kyla Oldacre, both

forwards with experience in Power 4 programs.

 

They also have a promising class that includes Ashton Judd and Irish sharpshooter Grace Prenter. This new wave of talent is expected to address one of Texas’ key weaknesses from last season: perimeter shooting. With a deep and versatile roster, Texas is poised to be more well-rounded and dangerous from beyond the arc—something that proved to be a limitation in the 2024–25 NCAA Tournament.

 

In the tournament, the Longhorns made just 12 three pointers across

four games. The Longhorns will face a tough schedule, including a high-profile SEC/ACC

Challenge match-up against North Carolina at the Moody Center in December. Within the

SEC, they’ll compete with national powerhouses LSU, South Carolina, and Big XII rivals

Baylor, making for a season full of top-tier match-ups and tournament-level intensity.

 

Early national rankings by ESPN place Texas among the top four teams in the

country, alongside perennial powerhouses South Carolina, UConn, and UCLA. With

veteran leadership, improved depth, and a hunger to build on last season’s success, Texas

is not only a serious contender for another Final Four—but also a legitimate threat to win

its first national title since 1986.

 

Amaria Fields – Covers sports for Texas Sports Monthly and Hook Em News. She played at Boston College and the University of Detroit Mercy, and Is a McKinney North alum where she hold several offensive records and scored over 1,900 career points. Ms. Fields also worked in NBA Player Development and with both the Mavericks and Celtics organizations.

NEW ERA FOR UT Mens Hoops

Written by Amaria Fields on . Posted in NCAA BASKETBALL.

In March 2025, the University of Texas took a step ahead in a way never seen in the
arena of college basketball. Sean Miller has been appointed as the new head coach of the
men’s basketball program. The ruling has changed the tone and the sense of urgency felt by
the athletic department as it moved to change the face of Texas basketball to the same
national calling of its football team.

A player in his own right with 480 career victories and
several Elite Eight bids at Arizona and Xavier, Miller has the instant credibility that a
basketball program starving to find postseason success and a sense of identity needs.
Miller moved to Austin as the coach with a reputation of discipline, player
development and recruiting at the elite level. With a reputation of being intense on the
sidelines and thoroughly prepared, he did not waste any time revamping the team culture.
The first key thing he did was to create a team based on trust and experience. He also

recruited some of his old helpers at Xavier, Kenya Hunter and Ryan Anderson, and held
onto some Texas talent, including Chris Ogden to run operations and NIL planning. The
message was simple: Texas was going to be structured, active in the recruiting and
businesslike about competing deep into March.

The university committed itself firmly in terms of money. Miller was recruited on a 6-

year contract with a package worth 32 million dollars, thus making him one of the highest-
paid coaches in the nation. However, besides the salary, he was to have an opportunity to

use the resources that really count in contemporary world NIL funding, top-level training
facilities, and national opportunities. Texas athletic director Chris Del Conte made an
analog of Miller to football coach Steve Sarkisian saying the former is a mirror image in the
manner of relating to players and taking up the task of managing a program that gets the
brightest lights across the nation.

The university committed itself firmly to Miller in terms of money. Miller was
recruited on a 6-year contract with a package worth 32 million dollars, making him one of
the highest-paid coaches in the nation. However, besides the salary, he was to have an

opportunity to use the resources that really count in contemporary world NIL funding, top-
level training facilities, and national opportunities. Texas athletic director Chris Del Conte

made an analog of Miller to football coach Steve Sarkisian saying the former is a mirror
image in the manner of relating to players and taking up the task of managing a program
that gets the brightest lights across the nation.

Expectations have raised under Miller. He is taking the best recruits and being active
in the transfer portal trying to assemble a team that can compete in the SEC. He has openly
talked about creating a blue blood mentality at Texas which is where it is not the objective
to win but it is the norm. Sean Miller has the combination of coaching prowess, recruiting
ability and miracle backing that should mark the beginning of a new era of Texas basketball.

 

Amaria Fields – Covers sports for Texas Sports Monthly and Hook Em News. She played at Boston College and the University of Detroit Mercy, and Is a McKinney North alum where she hold several offensive records and scored over 1,900 career points. Ms. Fields also worked in NBA Player Development and with both the Mavericks and Celtics organizations.