Paul Finebaum Praises Texas QB Arch Manning Despite Mixed Performance Against Ohio State

Paul Finebaum sparked significant buzz ahead of the 2025 college football season by declaring Texas quarterback Arch Manning the best player seen since Tim Tebow, despite Manning's limited starting experience. Manning, part of a storied football family, stepped into the starting role for the Longhorns against Ohio State but delivered a mixed performance, finishing with 170 passing yards, one touchdown, and one interception in a 14-7 loss. Finebaum's bold praise, made on SEC Nation and echoed by some analysts, emphasized Manning's 'magic and majesty' and predicted a wide viewership for the game, even attracting casual fans. However, fans and commentators quickly criticized Finebaum's comments after Manning's uneven debut, pointing out his shaky first half and costly mistakes. Manning, a former top recruit and Heisman favorite, has shown flashes of potential but remains unproven over a full campaign, with some experts expressing skepticism about his immediate impact. The game highlighted the high expectations and scrutiny surrounding Manning as he begins his journey to lead Texas, a team co-favored with Ohio State for the national championship.