Steve Sarkisian confirmed Manning will start against No. 7 Ole Miss, even as backup KJ Lacey reportedly draws more first-team reps and critics question Manning's job security.
Texas coach Steve Sarkisian ended the speculation, for now, telling reporters Monday that Arch Manning "is our starter" ahead of Saturday's home game against No. 7 Ole Miss. The declaration comes after the Longhorns dropped two straight games to unranked opponents, including a 27-24 loss to Florida, and slid from No. 1 to No. 19 in the Associated Press poll.
Sarkisian stopped short of guaranteeing Manning will finish the game, staying coy about what Texas does if the struggles continue against the Rebels. Backup KJ Lacey has reportedly been getting more first-team reps in practice, a sign the coaching staff is at least preparing for other options.
The outside chorus is getting louder too. Urban Meyer, speaking on The Herd, said Manning's grip on the job has been slipping since the final two drives against Ohio State, calling the trend "in reverse ever since." Sarkisian, for his part, said he needs a better version of his quarterback, not a different one, as Texas hosts Royal-Memorial Stadium Saturday at 2:30 p.m. on ABC.