Steve Sarkisian vows to 'evaluate everything,' won’t rule out benching Arch Manning amid Texas' two-game skid: news

Steve Sarkisian Weighs Arch Manning Benching Amid Texas Longhorns’ Two-Game Skid

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian made it clear that no position is safe after Texas suffered its second consecutive defeat, dropping a 27-24 matchup at home to Florida following a previous 27-24 loss against Oklahoma in the Red River Rivalry.

Addressing reporters following the loss, Sarkisian bluntly stated, “We’re not playing good offensive football right now, so everything is going to be evaluated”. When asked directly if that evaluation extended to his starting quarterback, Arch Manning, Sarkisian did not hesitate: “Everything means everything”.

Turnover Woes and Offensive Stagnation

The quarterback controversy in Austin comes after Manning struggled down the stretch in consecutive games:

• Turnover issues: Manning threw two critical fourth-quarter interceptions against Oklahoma before losing a decisive fumble on a sack against Florida with less than two minutes remaining.

• Passing production: Against the Gators, Texas managed just 173 passing yards and converted only 2 of 10 third downs while surrendering five sacks.

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• Run support: Outside of an early 32-yard touchdown run, the Longhorns’ ground attack generated only 3.3 yards per carry, leaving the offense out of rhythm and struggling with time of possession.

Manning’s Response and What Lies Ahead

Manning acknowledged the criticism and his head coach’s stance during post-game remarks: “Everyone is evaluated every week. That’s how it is at a school like this … Everyone’s got to get better and it starts with me”.

With a high-stakes matchup against Ole Miss on the immediate schedule, the Texas coaching staff faces critical decisions under centerincluding whether backup quarterback K.J. Lacey could see playing timeas the Longhorns attempt to keep their College Football Playoff aspirations alive.