AUSTIN, TX – The University of Texas Longhorns football program stands at the cusp of a transformative era as they fully transition into the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in the 2025 season. Under the continued leadership of Head Coach Steve Sarkisian, who recently signed a significant contract extension reportedly worth $135 million, the Longhorns are not just aiming to compete; they are setting their sights on establishing dominance in their new conference home. Adding to the anticipation is the full emergence of highly touted quarterback Arch Manning, poised to take the reins as the team’s undisputed starter.
Sarkisian, entering his fifth season at the helm, has steadily built a program with increasing momentum. His overall record at Texas stands at 38-17, showcasing a clear upward trajectory that culminated in a Big 12 Championship and a College Football Playoff appearance in their final year in the conference. The lucrative contract extension underscores the university’s belief in Sarkisian’s vision and his ability to lead the Longhorns to sustained success within the fiercely competitive SEC. This financial commitment comes with heightened expectations to not only compete for conference titles but also to consistently contend for national championships.
The dawning of the Arch Manning era injects a palpable sense of excitement into the Longhorns program. The sophomore quarterback, a consensus five-star recruit and the nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, has been patiently waiting for his opportunity. After two seasons of learning and developing within the program, including two starts in the previous year where he showcased his talent, Manning is now expected to lead the Texas offense. His potential has been a subject of national intrigue, with some NFL executives already speculating on his future draft prospects. Sarkisian has expressed hope that Manning will have a “really hard decision” to make regarding the NFL draft after the 2025 season, implying a highly successful year for the young quarterback and the team.
The Longhorns’ move to the SEC marks a significant step in the program’s history. After years of anticipation, they officially joined the conference on July 1, 2024. This transition places Texas in arguably the most competitive landscape in college football, facing perennial powerhouses week in and week out. The SEC boasts top-tier talent and intense rivalries, demanding consistent excellence on both sides of the ball. The Longhorns’ recruiting efforts have reflected this ambition, consistently securing highly ranked classes, including top prospects in the 2025 cycle. These recruiting successes, coupled with strategic transfers, aim to provide the depth and talent necessary to compete at the SEC’s elite level.
While the anticipation surrounding Manning is immense, Coach Sarkisian has cautioned against getting “too far ahead.” He emphasizes the importance of allowing Manning to enjoy his opportunity and develop at his own pace. The coaching staff has navigated the quarterback situation with Quinn Ewers over the past two seasons, demonstrating a commitment to player development and strategic decision-making. Now, with Manning stepping into the spotlight, the focus will be on building an offense that maximizes his strengths while maintaining a strong running game and a stout defense.
The weight of the $135 million extension on Sarkisian’s shoulders is undeniable. Such a significant investment signals the university’s unwavering commitment to winning at the highest level. The pressure to deliver SEC championships and College Football Playoff berths will be constant. However, with a talented roster, a generational quarterback prospect in Manning, and a coaching staff dedicated to success, the Texas Longhorns stand ready to embrace this new chapter with ambitious goals and the fervent support of their passionate fanbase. The 2025 season promises to be a defining one, offering a glimpse into whether Sarkisian and Manning can indeed lead Texas into a new era of SEC prominence.
