Greg McElroy Says It’s ‘Highly Likely’ Arch Manning, Texas Make CFP
As the 2024 college football season approaches, few programs in the nation are garnering as much attention as the Texas Longhorns. For many years, Texas has been a team full of potential but often has failed to reach its full potential on the national stage. However, the narrative surrounding Texas football has shifted dramatically in recent months, and with a key addition to their roster—Arch Manning, one of the most highly anticipated recruits in recent memory—many are now predicting that the Longhorns will not only be contenders in the Big 12 but could very well make a deep run in the College Football Playoff (CFP). Among the most prominent voices to speak out in favor of Texas’ chances is former Alabama quarterback and current ESPN analyst, Greg McElroy, who recently stated that it is “highly likely” that Arch Manning and Texas will make the CFP in 2024.
McElroy, a college football analyst with a keen eye for talent and team dynamics, has consistently been impressed with Texas’ trajectory under head coach Steve Sarkisian. Having been on the national stage himself during his time at Alabama, McElroy understands the caliber of team required to compete for a playoff berth, and he believes that Texas is on the verge of breaking through. The addition of Manning—whose high school career was filled with accolades and hype—combined with the Longhorns’ rising roster of talent, has many thinking this could finally be the year Texas returns to national relevance.
But what makes McElroy’s comments particularly interesting is that he isn’t just predicting Texas will be competitive. He is forecasting that they will make the College Football Playoff—a feat that has long eluded the program since its last appearance in the national title game in 2009. To understand why McElroy is so bullish on Texas’ chances, it’s important to take a deeper look at the factors that make this team one of the most exciting and promising in the nation, as well as why Arch Manning could be the player to push them over the top.
1. The Arrival of Arch Manning: A Game-Changer for Texas
There is no player in college football more talked about than Arch Manning. The son of former NFL quarterbacks Cooper Manning and nephew of legendary quarterbacks Peyton and Eli Manning, Arch is one of the most hyped recruits to ever step onto a college football campus. His decision to commit to Texas was met with excitement and anticipation from both fans and analysts alike, as many viewed it as a sign that Texas was on the verge of returning to the top of college football.
Manning comes to Texas with an impressive resume, having been a dominant force at Isidore Newman High School in New Orleans, Louisiana. During his high school career, Manning broke numerous records and showcased a unique combination of size, arm strength, and poise. He possesses the tools to succeed at the next level and, more importantly, the mental makeup to thrive in high-pressure situations. While some recruits crumble under the weight of the expectations that come with the Manning name, Arch has shown a level of maturity and focus that suggests he is ready to handle the spotlight.
For Texas, the arrival of Manning represents more than just a talented quarterback—it symbolizes a shift in the program’s fortunes. Texas has been searching for a true quarterback to lead the team to greatness, and with Manning under center, the Longhorns are positioned to compete at the highest level. With his arrival, Texas’ offense has a focal point that can elevate the entire team.
2. Sarkisian’s Offensive Scheme: Perfect Fit for Manning
One of the most important factors in why McElroy feels that Texas is poised to make the CFP is the fit between Arch Manning and head coach Steve Sarkisian’s offensive system. Sarkisian has long been known as one of the brightest offensive minds in college football, and his system at Texas has already shown glimpses of brilliance.
Sarkisian’s offense is built to highlight the strengths of his quarterback, and it relies heavily on a balanced attack that can stretch the field both vertically and horizontally. With Manning’s strong arm and ability to read defenses, he is the perfect quarterback to run Sarkisian’s system. Whether it’s through play-action passes, quick strikes, or deep shots down the field, Sarkisian’s offense is designed to put the quarterback in a position to succeed.
Manning’s familiarity with running a pro-style offense will also make the transition to Sarkisian’s system smoother. While Sarkisian is known for adapting to the talent at his disposal, Manning’s experience in a similar system at the high school level gives him a leg up compared to other young quarterbacks entering college football.
Sarkisian’s ability to develop quarterbacks is also a major asset in Manning’s development. During his time at Alabama and USC, Sarkisian worked with some of the most talented quarterbacks in the nation, including Heisman winners and future NFL stars. At Texas, he’s shown he can bring the best out of his quarterbacks, and Manning seems poised to take his game to the next level under Sarkisian’s guidance.
3. A Talented Roster Around Manning
While Arch Manning is undoubtedly the most high-profile player on the Texas roster, the team around him is also stacked with talent, making the Longhorns a formidable contender for a CFP spot. Texas has seen its recruiting classes improve significantly under Sarkisian’s leadership, and the team is brimming with talent on both sides of the ball.
Offensively, the Longhorns return several key contributors, including running back Bijan Robinson (who has since declared for the NFL draft but will have a significant impact on the 2024 campaign). His presence in the backfield helped Texas develop a balanced offensive attack, and his departure will create an opportunity for younger talents like Jonathon Brooks to step up.
In the receiving corps, Texas has a deep group of playmakers that can take advantage of Manning’s arm. Xavier Worthy, one of the top wide receivers in the nation, is poised to be a favorite target for Manning, and his speed and route-running ability will open up big-play opportunities. Additionally, the Longhorns have a solid offensive line that will give Manning time to operate and deliver the ball to his playmakers.
Defensively, Texas is equally strong. The Longhorns boast one of the most talented defensive fronts in the Big 12, with standout players like Ovie Oghoufo and Alfred Collins anchoring the defensive line. Texas’ defense has shown the ability to stop both the run and the pass, and their pass rush could be a game-changer in big matchups. In the secondary, Texas has experienced players capable of locking down opposing wide receivers, and their coverage skills will be crucial in high-stakes games.
With such a talented roster, Texas is primed to make a run at the CFP. The combination of Manning’s talent and the depth across the roster means that Texas isn’t just relying on one player to carry them—they have a complete team that can compete with the best.
4. Texas’ Schedule: Opportunities to Prove Their Worth
Another reason why McElroy feels that Texas is likely to make the CFP is the team’s schedule. While the Longhorns will face stiff competition, including rivals like Oklahoma and Baylor, they have several high-profile opportunities to prove themselves on a national stage.
One of the most important games on Texas’ schedule will be their non-conference matchup against Alabama, a team that has consistently been among the top contenders in college football. A win against Alabama would be a statement victory for Texas and would help solidify their spot in the national conversation. Texas has the talent to compete with Alabama, and this game will be an early indicator of where the Longhorns stand relative to the top programs in the country.
Additionally, Texas’ move to the SEC in the near future adds even more intrigue to the team’s schedule. The SEC is known for being one of the most competitive conferences in college football, and Texas will have to prove itself in that environment. The Longhorns will need to navigate the tough SEC schedule in 2024, but they have the tools to thrive in that atmosphere, and a successful season could give them the momentum to carry them into the CFP.
5. The College Football Playoff Picture
The landscape of the College Football Playoff has shifted in recent years, with more teams becoming contenders for the top spots. However, the four-team format still makes it difficult for teams to secure a spot. Texas will need to perform at a consistently high level and win crucial games to secure a place in the playoff.
Given their talent, coaching staff, and the presence of Arch Manning, Texas has the potential to make a deep run in the CFP. The Longhorns will have to overcome a few obstacles, such as facing tough competition in the Big 12 and dealing with the pressures of being a top-ranked team. However, with a favorable schedule, a balanced roster, and the leadership of Manning, Texas is well-positioned to make a playoff appearance.
Texas on the Brink of National Relevance
Greg McElroy’s statement that it is “highly likely” that Arch Manning and Texas will make the College Football Playoff in 2024 is a bold prediction, but it is one that is backed by reason. With the combination of Manning’s talent, Sarkisian’s offensive acumen, and a roster full of playmakers, Texas is one of the most exciting teams in college football heading into the 2024 season. The Longhorns are positioned to compete with the best and have the pieces in place to make a deep playoff run.
While the road to the College Football Playoff is never easy, Texas has a golden opportunity to return to national prominence and establish itself as one of the top programs in the nation. If the Longhorns can stay healthy, execute their game plan, and continue to improve throughout the season, McElroy’s prediction may become a reality, with Texas making its long-awaited return to the CFP.
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