Manning specifically highlighted his nephew’s athletic ability and why he believes that could be a challenge for opposing defenses to contain.
“He’s a great athlete, so he has the ability to do some of those read options to run,” Manning said. “He has the ability on third down and seven and no one’s open, go run, go get 10 yards and a first down. So, because of that athletic ability, there’s some coverages that teams maybe won’t play versus him.”
His ability to extend plays is what has Manning the most excited about his nephew’s potential.
“I’m excited for him. It’s not an easy task coming in Week 1, go to Ohio State, the defending champions, and go into their house and try to play well,” Manning said. “But, I think he’s up for the challenge. He’s worked his tail off. I’ve seen it and I’m excited to watch him play this upcoming season.”
Yes, Manning has only attempted 95 total passes, while most of his production thus far has come against UTSA, Louisiana Monroe and Mississippi State, none of which won more than seven games last season.
Although his uncle was confident in his ability to make plays in the pocket, Jordan Rodgers, TV personality, analyst and brother of Pittsburgh Steelers QB Aaron Rodgers, is not sold on the hype surrounding Manning, pointing to his arm strength and his inability to manipulate the pocket.
Manning will also take over an offense that lost its top-two receivers, Matthew Golden (Green Bay Packers) and Gunnar Helm (Tennessee Titans), to the NFL, while RB Jaydon Blue was selected by the Dallas Cowboys. Throw in the fact that three offensive linemen were drafted as well, led by ninth overall pick Kelvin Banks Jr. (New Orleans Saints), and the Longhorns are going to look much different this season.
Manning will be thrown into the deep end Week 1 on the road against Ohio State. Regardless of what happens in that game, Manning has a lot of upside and should be poised for a successful career in due time, especially as he gets some experience in meaningful games.
