Why are Arch Manning and DJ Lagway struggling this season?

Arch Manning and DJ Lagway, former top-10 national recruits and preseason Heisman Trophy favorites, have failed to match the high expectations placed on them so far this season, as they try to dig themselves out of early-season holes.

How are coaches helping their star quarterbacks cope with the pressure?

Coaches like Texas' Steve Sarkisian and Florida's Billy Napier are working to protect their players' confidence and help them focus on the joy of playing football, rather than the intense public scrutiny they face due to the 24/7 media coverage and social media attention.

Is this trend of "can't-miss" quarterback prospects failing to live up to hype new?

No, this phenomenon is not new in college football. Since 2008, only 11 of the 45 players who finished in the top five of Heisman Trophy voting were former five-star recruits, as coaches emphasize that there are many factors beyond just physical talent that go into making a successful college quarterback.

Home / Sports / Preseason Quarterback Favorites Fail to Deliver Amid Intense Scrutiny

Preseason Quarterback Favorites Fail to Deliver Amid Intense Scrutiny

4 Oct

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Summary

Arch Manning and DJ Lagway, former top recruits, struggle to meet high expectations
Coaches work to protect players' confidence as they face public criticism
Trend of "can't-miss" QB prospects failing to live up to hype is not new

Preseason Quarterback Favorites Fail to Deliver Amid Intense Scrutiny

As of October 4th, 2025, a trend has emerged in college football where highly touted quarterback prospects are struggling to meet the lofty expectations placed upon them. Texas quarterback Arch Manning and Florida's DJ Lagway, both former top-10 national recruits and preseason Heisman Trophy favorites, have failed to match the hype so far this season.

Coaches like Texas' Steve Sarkisian and Florida's Billy Napier are now tasked with helping their star players regain their confidence and focus on the game, rather than the intense public scrutiny they face. Sarkisian noted that the 24/7 media coverage and social media attention have put these young players "on pedestals" before they're ready, leading them to "press" and underperform.