Despite ending the season with a Sugar Bowl loss to Washington, coach Steve Sarkisian has created a sustainable culture that’s built to last. There’s no reason that the Longhorns shouldn’t contend for titles moving forward. And with Ewers’ decision now final, the team is in an even better position to compete immediately in its new conference.

So, what does this mean for Manning? The popular freshman drew quite the crowd at Sugar Bowl Media Day a few weeks ago, and was honest about how tough it is not to play. This past season was the first time in his life that he was the backup, having started every year for his teams since he was in the sixth grade.

“I mean, it’s never fun being a backup and sitting,” Manning said. “But each person’s journey is different, and I’m gonna work hard and not blink an eye, and help Quinn [Ewers] be the best quarterback and try to get better along the way.”

Manning said that Ewers is one of his “best friends on the team” and they always room together for games. He loves to pick Ewers’ brain about things and said he admires how his teammate “doesn’t let a bad drive or the media or anything get in the way of his focus.”

Manning also said “I haven’t looked into transferring at all,” though that won’t stop rumors and speculation.