Arch Manning Ready for Texas vs. Ohio State, 'This Is What I've Been Waiting For'

A new era has arrived in Austin as Arch Manning begins his first season as Texas's starting quarterback.

Manning's first task will be taking on the defending champion Ohio State, which knocked the Longhorns out of the College Football Playoff last season.

The nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning is ready for what will be a challenging first test on Saturday.

"This is what I've been waiting for," Manning said Monday, per ESPN's Dave Wilson. "I spent two years not playing, so I might as well go have some fun."

Manning arrived at Texas as a 5-star prospect and the No. 1 player in the Class of 2023, per 247Sports' composite rankings. He spent his first two seasons with the Longhorns waiting behind Quinn Ewers.

While he didn't earn starter status until this season, Manning made the most of his opportunities last year. He appeared in 10 games, throwing for 939 yards, nine touchdowns and two interceptions, adding 108 rushing yards and four touchdowns on the ground.

While filling in for the injured Ewers against Mississippi State, Manning threw for 325 yards and a pair of touchdowns.

At long last, Manning will now get the chance to prove that he's more than just hype. If he can go into Columbus and take down the defending champs, it will be quite the start to his first year under center.