Texas QB Manning to make first start

Arch Manning will make his first career start for the Texas Longhorns at home Saturday against UL-Monroe, Steve Sarkisian announced Thursday.  He will replace Quinn Ewers who was injured in the No. 1 Longhorns’ win over UTSA.

“Quinn has made great strides ever since Saturday night into where he’s gotten to,” Sarkisian said. “But my decision is I’m looking forward to his future as a player, but also the future of the season for us. … And getting him possibly one more week healthier for the long term, I think, is good for us as we’re getting ready for SEC play.”

Manning has appeared in four career games with his most extensive action coming last Saturday.  The 6-foot-4, 225-pound redshirt freshman accounted for five touchdowns in a little more than a half of football, including a 75-yard scoring pass and 67-yard touchdown run.

“Arch is more than capable, as I think we all know,” Sarkisian said. “I mean, you go out and you have five touchdowns coming in off the bench, you’ve already proved you can play. Now, it’s about executing the plan, doing it with confidence and fixing some of the issues on the field when they arise.”

Texas is a 44.5-point favorite over the Warhawks.