Manning makes an appearance in this week’s QB Power Rankings ahead of making his first career start for Texas
• 4 min read
The College Football QB Power Rankings aren’t only about statistics and great performances. They’re also about commanding the attention of college football’s collective consciousness. They’re about inspiring ludicrous takes that don’t make any sense but also make a little sense. Like this, for example:
Quinn Ewers was No. 1 in these very rankings last week following a huge win against Michigan on the road. But, you know what? The most important ability is availability, and right now, Ewers isn’t available. And if you aren’t playing, I’m not ranking you.
Luckily for Texas, and me, the Longhorns have a ready-made backup in Arch Manning. That’s right, not only is Manning filling in for Quinn on the field, but he’s filling in for him here, too. It was only two quarters against UTSA, but it was an extremely impressive two quarters.
Plus, thinking of all the people who will get angry when they see these rankings shared on social media without context amuses me greatly. That matters, too.
As for the other rules we follow around here, a quick referesher:
- This is not a draft board ranking, nor is it based on any kind of statistical formula. Your numbers matter, sure, but overall, I’m ranking quarterbacks based on the “juice” they have at the current moment in time. It’s a combination of how well you’re playing, what you have accomplished and what you might accomplish in the near future. If you believe a QB I haven’t listed should be listed, I only kept them off the list because I don’t like you. Or, perhaps it’s this second part.
- I don’t rank any QB the week after a loss. You could be the greatest QB of all time, but if you lose on Saturday, you won’t be here. I don’t care if you think your offensive line stinks, OK? That’s the burden the QB must carry. If you win, it’s because your teammates did their jobs. If you lose, it’s on you. Embrace it.
Let’s go.
Honorable Mention: Joey Aguilar, Appalachian State; Drew Allar, Penn State; Miller Moss, USC; Garrett Nussmeier, LSU; Tyler Shough, Louisville
