CFB insider claims Arch Manning’s ties with Eli and Peyton Manning is hurting him at Texas in 2025

Texas quarterback Arch Manning is one of the most-discussed players in college football. While he is yet to start a full college football season, he still gets more attention than almost any other player in college football. A big reason for that is the fact that he is the nephew of two former NFL star QBs, Peyton and Eli Manning.

While some fans believe that Arch Manning gets undeserved attention and hype for his last name, some believe the opposite is true. In a new episode of 'Andy & Ari' released on Wednesday, analyst Ari Wasserman responded to a tweet from a fan that read (starts at 0:40):

"Whatever. Take the last name away and he's nothing but a 6' 4" tank with a cannon for an arm who runs 20+ mph and is surrounded and beloved by a super talented cast of teammates, coached by an offensive wizard."

Ari Wasserman spoke about the tweet and agreed with the sentiment of it.

"It's like ok, who's betting against this. I actually think his last name is hurting him. I think if we had all the same information that we have, which is his measurables, what he was as a high school recruit and a productive recruit, though admittedly he played at a lower level, and came from a family that prioritized development and didn't emphasize things that people get upset about which is trying to get the biggest paycheque.

"Which by the way, he's the most marketable and valuable player in college football in terms of NIL valuation. He skipped the NCAA football photoshoot. People should love that because they hated how Nico (Iamaleava) acted. If his name was Roger Gallagher and he was a five-star, putting him on this list... I think people resent his last name."

Arch Manning is one of the Heisman Trophy favorites for next season

While Arch Manning's name might get him undeserved hate from some fans, it certainly is not hurting him with the sportsbooks. While Manning will be a full-time starter for the first time next season, he is one of the early favorites to win the Heisman Trophy.

According to FanDuel, Manning is the co-favorite to win the award with LSU QB Garrett Nussmeier. They both have +800 odds to win, edging out Clemson QB Cade Klubnik with +900 odds. It will be interesting to see if he can live up to the hype because, as Ari Wasserman said, he has the tools to do so.