"I am staying with Arch Manning": Paul Finebaum doubles down on Heisman faith after Texas QB’s Week 2 redemption

College football analyst Paul Finebaum has reinvested in Arch Manning’s Heisman stock after the quarterback’s impressive Week 2 performance. The Texas quarterback was on the receiving end of heavy criticism after the Longhorns’ Week 1 loss at Ohio State.

Finebaum was among the first analysts to slam Manning’s showing against the reigning national champions. The veteran commentator, long known as a staunch Manning supporter, walked back his earlier praise of the redshirt sophomore after Week 1, attributing it to viral hype.

But he is back in the Arch Manning camp after the quarterback’s dominant outing against San Jose State on Saturday. Appearing on SportsCenter on Sunday, Finebaum said:

“I know the critics are going to ridicule me, but I don’t care anymore, guys. I am staying with Arch Manning. He has not been perfect, but - the Heisman doesn’t get voted on until December. So, let’s (quit) all this ‘He’s out of the Heisman race after a bad loss.’ He can come back. I think yesterday was exactly what he needed, and keep your eyes on him.”

He continued:

“Remember the name Arch Manning. Remember the name.”

Manning entered the 2025 season as one of the favorites to win the Heisman Trophy. But his odds dropped after the opening-game loss to the Buckeyes, when he threw for just 170 yards with one touchdown and one interception.

Reviewing Arch Manning’s Week 2 performance

Arch Manning bounced back in Texas’ 38-7 win over San Jose State, passing for 295 yards, four touchdowns and one interception. While the Spartans are not on the same level as the Buckeyes, the performance was a much-needed confidence boost.

He was also a constant threat on the ground, rushing for 23 yards and a touchdown on four carries. The Longhorns' games will see them face similarly manageable opponents in UTEP and Sam Houston.

Those will be followed by a fierce conference rivalry game with Florida on Oct. 4. The stretch gives Manning ample time to fine-tune his play before SEC competition begins.

After coming close to winning the conference title last season, head coach Steve Sarkisian will be looking to take the Longhorns all the way in 2025. Manning hitting peak form will be a key factor in that pursuit.