Recent events in the college football landscape have gotten the rumor mill churning, with some fans discussing a potential partnership between legendary coach Bill Belichick and Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning.
On Wednesday, Dec. 11, Belichick, a six-time Super Bowl-winning head coach, was announced as the next head coach of the North Carolina Tar Heels. Meanwhile, there has been speculation that Quinn Ewers might return to Texas for another season. If that happens, Manning — who backed up Ewers this season — may no longer wait around as the backup
Fans React to Potential Bill Belichick-Arch Manning Union
Belichick’s presence at UNC is bound to attract the best of college football. Even though the Tar Heels football program was not among the best in the ACC in 2024, his presence could change that narrative, especially for those with NFL aspirations.
Former North Carolina basketball star Armando Bacot Jr. (who now plays for the Memphis Hustle in the NBA G League) floated the idea of a potential pairing between Belichick and Manning, especially given Ewers may not declare for the 2025 NFL Draft and opt to utilize his last year of college eligibility.
@ArchManning get ready to learn Bill Belichick buddy
— Armando Bacot Jr. (@iget_buckets35) December 12, 2024
However, the majority of fans were quick to shut down the idea.
“That would be a terrible decision,” one fan commented.
“Wth is this post even?! 😂 Manning is ready to take the helm in Texas, and they’re ready for next season,” one fan said.
no way this happens
— dorian 🥀 (@dorianfrizzy) December 12, 2024
“Why would he leave Texas?” another fan asked.
“Not gone, lie, that’ll be fire,” a commenter admitted. “He’ll be around a lot of NFL experience and have one of the greatest coaches ever. A lot of players are gone. Look at that. I want to be a part of it. If I’m Texas, I’m starting him for the playoffs, lol for he won’t leave or at least have something to think about.”
Is Texas Ready To Move On With Manning Under Center?
If Ewers decides to return, he may not get the starting role with the Texas Longhorns.
Manning, who has waited behind him for the 2023 and 2024 seasons, is waiting to show his skills in full as the starting quarterback. It’s possible that even if Ewers decides to return, Texas would be ready to move on to Manning.
Quinn Ewers is reportedly “debating” on returning to college football and forgoing the NFL Draft yet again.
However, Texas is reportedly “ready” to move on to Arch Manning next season, which would prompt Ewers to enter the transfer portal.
Many NFL scouts reportedly believe… pic.twitter.com/EVpXjTMTli
— NFL Rookie Watch (@NFLRookieWatxh) December 12, 2024
This could mean Ewers, rather than Manning, may enter the transfer portal and take his talents elsewhere in 2025 before heading to the league.