The University of Texas Longhorns opened fall camp this week with a level of anticipation that has not been seen in Austin in over a decade. As the program enters its second season in the Southeastern Conference, the Longhorns are not just hoping to compete in their new league. They are expecting to win it.
Manning showed flashes of brilliance in limited action last season, completing 68 percent of his passes with nine touchdowns and two interceptions in spot duty. His combination of arm strength, mobility, and football IQ has drawn comparisons to his uncle Eli, but with more rushing ability than any Manning before him.
Head coach Steve Sarkisian has tailored the offense to Manning's skill set, installing more run-pass option concepts and designed quarterback runs. The offensive line returns four starters, providing a solid foundation for what should be one of the most balanced attacks in the SEC.
The schedule is unforgiving. Texas faces a brutal October stretch that includes back-to-back road games against SEC powerhouses, followed by a November slate that will likely determine the Longhorns playoff fate. The College Football Playoff expanded to 12 teams last season, giving Texas more margin for error, but the margin in the SEC is thin.
The Longhorns will also need to navigate the pressure that comes with being a preseason top-10 team. Texas has historically struggled under the weight of high expectations, and the SEC spotlight only amplifies that pressure. How Manning and the leadership group handle adversity will be a defining storyline.
In Austin, the belief is back. Now it is time to prove it on the field.
