ESPN analyst Stephen A. Smith thinks Texas quarterback Arch Manning‘s name recognition could help the Longhorns reach the College Football Playoff. Smith made the comments on Wednesday’s episode of First Take.
Smith argued that Manning’s star power might influence playoff committee decisions if Texas finishes 9-3 and sits on the playoff bubble. The scenario has become more realistic with the Longhorns sitting at No. 10 in the latest playoff rankings.
“Arch Manning being there, that doesn’t hurt,” Smith said. “We don’t like to admit it, but dammit people on television are the last people that get to deny it. Because it’s about ratings. You want to turn on your tube and see stuff that people actually want to watch. That does matter.”
Manning, the nephew of NFL Hall of Famers Peyton and Eli Manning, remains one of college football’s most recognizable players.
The redshirt freshman has thrown for 2,123 yards with 18 touchdowns and six interceptions through nine games. He’s helped keep Texas in playoff contention despite early season struggles and missing time with a concussion.
Texas currently sits at 7-2 heading into Saturday’s matchup with Georgia. The Longhorns also face undefeated Texas A&M in their regular season finale.
Wins in both games would likely secure their playoff spot.
Smith believes a 9-3 finish might still get Texas into the 12-team playoff because of Manning’s appeal to television audiences.
“You can’t deny that Arch Manning brings eyeballs,” Smith said. “And that counts for something.”
No. 10 Texas faces No. 5 Georgia in Athens on Saturday at 7:30 p.m. ET on ABC.
