Texas-LSU Playoff Stakes and Arch Manning's Future

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Texas-LSU Showdown Carries Playoff Stakes and Questions About Arch Manning’s Future

LSU needs to beat Texas for Lane Kiffin to have any chance of reaching the 12-team playoff, which is the expectation at LSU. He left an Ole Miss team that could have won the national championship last year because he believed he could win one at LSU, but the Tigers already have three losses, including defeats against Kentucky and Alabama at home.

LSU has shown little improvement over what the team displayed under Brian Kelly. After all the money, attention and involvement from the governor, a loss to Texas could leave the Tigers with four regular-season defeats.

Texas also has two losses, but its quality wins could allow it to remain in the playoff field even with another defeat. However, the Longhorns have been inconsistent all season. Arch Manning can produce a drive that makes him look like a potential No. 1 pick, then follow it with a performance that raises questions. Both teams have played very well at their best, but their struggles have also been significant.

A loss could also create questions about Manning’s future in Austin. He entered the season viewed as a possible No. 1 NFL draft pick, but his season has not unfolded that way. At the same time, no quarterback has played particularly well, and Drew Mestemaker is now being discussed as a possible top selection.

Dante Moore’s injury after returning to Oregon despite potentially being a top-five pick could affect how other quarterbacks evaluate their options. Some players may decide to enter the draft before they are fully ready because someone will have to be selected.

If Manning returns to college, his next step will be worth watching. He has not appeared comfortable in Steve Sarkisian’s offense, and his processing has not been at the desired level. Texas could change its offense, or Manning could seek a fresh start elsewhere and try to reach the level many believe he can attain.