Arch Manning’s dad Cooper Manning reveals heartwarming reaction to Texas backup’s first TD in 2024

Cooper Manning was in seventh heaven after Arch Manning scored his first touchdown for the Texas Longhorns. One of the most talked-about moments from Texas’ season opener came as it led 45-0 over the Colorado State Rams on Aug. 31.

The 19-year-old is the backup to starting quarterback Quinn Ewers. However, coach Steve Sarkisian subbed off Ewers in the third quarter, giving Arch some game time, and he wasted no time making an impact. Manning’s first passing touchdown came on a 5-yard flip to wide receiver Silas Bolden.

Earlier in the drive, he used his arm strength well, throwing a 40-yard stinger to wide receiver Johntay Cook II. He didn’t stop there, adding a 1-yard rushing score, capping the blowout at 52-0.

Arch’s dad, Cooper, couldn’t hide his joy when discussing his son’s performance on Saturday's "Big Noon Kickoff" on Fox.

"It was thrilling, you know," Cooper Manning said. "As a parent, you're excited when they’re excited. You couldn’t wipe that smile off my face."

Arch Manning is the latest star in the legendary Manning football family. Fans have longed to see him in action since last season as he continues developing in Texas’ system.

Arch Manning's dad doing his bit for Michigan game

The non-football entity from the Manning clan has stirred up excitement as the No. 3 Longhorns set to take the field against No. 10 Michigan Wolverines at the famed "Big House." An entrepreneur and a hotel chain owner, Cooper Manning is rumored to have pulled a potential prank.

According to chatter on social media (as per 247Sports), Cooper allegedly arranged for the Graduate Hotel in Ann Arbor to wave Texas flags. The hotel is located near both the stadium and campus, making it the perfect spot for such a troll job.

Peyton Manning claimed no knowledge of the prank on “The Pat McAfee Show,” but he acknowledged that his brother has connections to the Graduate Hotel chain and could pull off such a move if he wanted to.

The Longhorns head into this matchup after a 52-0 victory over coach Jay Norvell’s Colorado State, while the Wolverines began their season under new coach Sherrone Moore with a 30-10 win against Fresno State. The two powerhouses will meet for the first time after their 2005 Rose Bowl game.

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