ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum sounded off on Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian after his recent remarks in defense of Arch Manning not meeting expectations so far in the current season. Sarkisian previously commented that if Manning had a different name on his jersey, such as "Joe Smith," he would be praised for all the great things he's done. But instead, there are higher expectations of him because he's from the Manning family, which features Super Bowl winners and legends.
During Wednesday's episode of "First Take" on ESPN, Finebaum reacted to what Sarkisian recently said about Manning, calling it "complete hogwash." "That is complete hogwash, and Steve Sarkisian knows that. That’s one of the most absurd things I have ever heard Sarkisian say, and I’m a big fan of his and will continue to praise him in spite of him whiffing on that," the ESPN analyst said, per ON3. More news: Bill Belichick Takes Shot at Former UNC Players After Huge College Coaching Win "I'm not even sure Arch Manning would be starting at Texas if his name was 'Joe Smith.' He has played poorly in spots.
When you break down his tape, he does very well, other than the fact that he blows the game against Oklahoma. To me that, is unforgivable," Finebaum said. Texas dropped its first game of the season last Saturday, falling to the Oklahoma Sooners 27-24.
Manning completed 19 of 31 passes in that game for 360 yards and three touchdowns, but also threw two interceptions. For the season, Manning has thrown for 1,122 yards and 10 touchdowns with five interceptions and a QBR of 65.6, which ranks 44th in the nation. He entered the season as a Heisman Trophy favorite but has looked like anything but a contender so far.
His struggles with playmaking have often drawn scrutiny, with some critics suggesting he'll need another season of college football before entering the NFL Draft. The loss to Oklahoma dropped Texas from its No. 1 ranking in the Top 25 polls, with Georgia taking over the top spot. Meanwhile, the Longhorns fell to No. 7 in the AP Top 25 poll, with their next game against Florida on Saturday, Oct. 17.
While a College Football Playoff spot is still possible, they'll face a tough slate with ranked opponents that also include No. 9 Ole Miss, No. 13 Missouri, and No. 22 LSU before the season ends. More news: Shannon Sharpe Brutally Roasts Rams Secondary for Costing Team Win vs Bills For more about the Texas Longhorns and NCAA football, visit Newsweek Sports.
Extract — continue reading at the source.
