Stephen A. Smith issues Arch Manning warning before Tennessee game as Steve Sarkisian faces crucial quarterback test

ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith has put the focus on one issue before Texas faces Tennessee: Arch Manning cannot afford to waste his chances. Speaking on ESPN’s First Take on September 24, Smith said Manning must avoid mistakes, while Texas must stop Tennessee’s strong running game. The matchup is Manning’s first trip to Neyland Stadium and Texas’ first true road game of 2026, making every possession especially important here in Knoxville.Stephen A. Smith puts pressure on Arch Manning and Steve Sarkisian“Of course, uh, Arch Manning is gonna have to avoid some making some mistakes. He’s gonna have to capitalize off of the few opportunities he’s going to get,” Smith said on First Take. “But to me, the key is, can Texas stop Tennessee from running the football down their throat? If they can do that, they win this game. If they can’t, they don’t. It’s that simple to me.”The numbers explain the concern. Tennessee entered the Texas game 3 0 after wins over Furman, Georgia Tech and Kennesaw State. The Volunteers ran for 299 yards against Georgia Tech, with DeSean Bishop rushing for 147 yards and two touchdowns. Daune Morris added 98 yards and a score, according to Tennessee Athletics.Faizon Brandon has also given Tennessee another way to move the ball. Through two games, the freshman quarterback had 374 passing yards, five touchdowns and no interceptions, according to the University of Tennessee’s official statistics.Manning’s challenge comes after a quieter showing against UTSA. He completed 17 of 33 passes for 164 yards and two touchdowns in Texas’ 30 6 win. The Houston Chronicle reported that the Longhorns’ offense struggled for much of the game.Steve Sarkisian needs Arch Manning ready for Tennessee pressureSteve Sarkisian has also pointed to an issue that could become important in Knoxville. After the UTSA game, the Texas coach said Manning may have relied too much on his legs instead of staying patient through his reads.“I thought Arch kind of fell in love with his legs a little bit tonight. His legs are a really good weapon,” Sarkisian said. “But what happens when you go to run? You can start speeding up through your progressions, and I think that’s why we don’t want to make a living with him running the ball as much as he ran tonight.”Tennessee’s defense can also make Texas work for every possession. The Volunteers had recorded 11 sacks and 20 tackles for loss through two games, according to Tennessee Athletics.Manning enters with 60 completions on 97 attempts for 664 yards, seven touchdowns and two interceptions. The question is how often Texas can give him the ball if Tennessee controls the clock.The game carries a family angle. Manning visits Neyland for the first time, where uncle Peyton Manning starred. Texas and Tennessee have not played since 1969 and now meet as SEC opponents, according to AP.For Arch Manning, the task is clear Saturday. Make the most of his chances, stay patient and avoid giving Tennessee easy opportunities. If the Volunteers keep running the ball, those chances may be limited.Stay updated with the latest Asian Games 2026 news, check the Asian Games medal tally and complete Asian Games schedule.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.