The hype train for Arch Manning has been running at full speed for years, and it's not slowing down anytime soon. But according to USA Today's latest rankings, the Texas signal-caller isn't quite the best in the country—he's No. 5. That's still pretty darn good, but it raises the question: is that spot too high, too low, or just right?
USA Today released its top 25 quarterbacks heading into the 2026 season, and Manning landed in the top five. The publication's Erick Smith noted that after a slow start, Manning finished last season strong, showing off his dual-threat ability in a Citrus Bowl win over Michigan. "He's an excellent runner who needs more consistency as a passer," Smith wrote, adding that Texas has loaded up with weapons around him. "Perhaps, all that hype last summer was just a year too soon."
Manning's journey has been a rollercoaster. He stepped in as the starter and faced intense scrutiny, with every move and even his fashion choices under the microscope. But he rebounded, and now the expectations are sky-high again. The Longhorns are expected to be contenders, and Manning is a big reason why.
So who's ahead of him? The list is headlined by Alabama's Keelon Russell, followed by Houston's Conner Weigman, Penn State's Rocco Becht, and NC State's CJ Bailey. That's some stiff competition, but Manning's upside is undeniable. He's got the arm, the legs, and the pedigree—his grandfather is Archie, and his uncles are Peyton and Eli. No pressure, right?
The rest of the top 25 is a who's who of college football's quarterback elite, including South Carolina's LaNorris Sellers, LSU's Sam Leavitt, Georgia's Gunner Stockton, and Oregon's Dante Moore. The list also features some intriguing newcomers, like Notre Dame's CJ Carr and Ohio State's Julian Sayin, who could be the next big risers.
Manning's ranking has sparked debate among fans. Some think he should be higher, given his ceiling and the talent around him. Others argue he's still unproven over a full season. But one thing's for sure: he'll have every chance to prove himself on the biggest stage, and if he lives up to the hype, he could be hoisting the Heisman Trophy come December.
This season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with a loaded quarterback class that could produce multiple NFL stars. And with the College GameDay schedule already taking shape, the spotlight will be bright on these signal-callers all year long.
But let's not forget the bigger picture. The college football landscape is changing rapidly, with NIL deals and the transfer portal reshaping rosters. Some coaches, like SMU's Rhett Lashlee, have been vocal about the system's flaws, calling it "ruining college football." And with the Big Ten drawing a line on NFL comebacks, the sport is in a state of flux. But for now, let's just enjoy the quarterback talent on display.
So, is Arch Manning the fifth-best quarterback in the nation? The debate will rage on, but one thing's certain: he's got the tools to prove USA Today wrong—or right. The season can't come soon enough.
