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ATLANTA — Texas quarterback Arch Manning comfortably weaved his way through SEC media days Tuesday, generating the type of attention garnered by recent superstars such as Tim Tebow and Johnny Manziel.
On the cusp of his first season as a full-time starter, Manning handled questions with ease, showcasing a deprecating wit and pointing out that his coronation as a superstar isn’t yet based on performance.
“It’s weird,” Manning told ESPN. “I really haven’t deserved any of this, so just trying to play along and play ball.”
Manning has started two games for the Longhorns and has 250 snaps in his career, meaning there’s a disconnect between production and expectations. But college football has long been fueled by emotion, and Manning’s background, recruiting hype and the flashes of talent he’s shown on the field at Texas have yielded a frenzy.
Manning’s appearance here came with an appreciation for the moment. His grandfather, Archie Manning, played quarterback at Ole Miss, and his Super Bowl champion uncles, Peyton (Tennessee) and Eli (Ole Miss), also starred in the SEC. He grew up in New Orleans going to games at Ole Miss and LSU, and he carries with him a deep appreciation for the history