KJ Lacey Gives Texas a Glimpse of Its Future Behind Arch Manning

Texas football fans got more than a blowout victory Saturday. They also got a first real look at what life after Arch Manning could eventually look like.

With the Longhorns firmly in control of a 59-7 win over Texas State, freshman quarterback KJ Lacey took over in the second half and made a strong impression in limited work.

MORE: Texas Football Performance: Arch Manning, Receivers Ace Season Opener

Lacey completed 6 of 7 passes for 55 yards, showing the kind of calm, efficient decision-making that has made him one of the most intriguing young players on Steve Sarkisian’s roster.

Manning had already done plenty of damage before exiting. The veteran starter finished 20 of 27 for 305 yards, four touchdowns and one interception, helping Texas build a commanding lead before Lacey entered.

Once he did, the offense didn’t fall apart.  That may be the most important takeaway.

Lacey didn’t force throws, didn’t look overwhelmed and consistently took what the defense gave him.

His longest completion went for 18 yards, and he helped keep Texas moving late in a game that had long since been decided.

For a young quarterback, that’s exactly what Sarkisian wants to see.

Lacey’s résumé explains why expectations are already high. The Saraland, Alabama, product finished his high school career with 10,985 passing yards and 130 touchdown passes while going 39-3 as a three-year starter.

As a senior, he threw for 3,042 yards and 40 touchdowns and earned Alabama’s Mr. Football honor.

He also arrived in Austin with considerable recruiting pedigree, giving Texas another highly regarded quarterback to develop behind Manning.

The path to major playing time this season will obviously be limited as long as Manning stays healthy. That’s not necessarily a problem.

Lacey can spend the year learning Sarkisian’s system, taking meaningful late-game snaps when opportunities arise and preparing for a larger role down the road.

MORE: Texas Longhorns QB Arch Manning Enjoys Rare Stat in Blowout Win vs. Texas State

Saturday was only a small sample, but it was a useful one.

Texas already knows what it has in Manning. The more interesting long-term question is what comes next.

Against Texas State, Lacey gave the Longhorns a promising first answer.

Follow Timm Hamm on X at @IndyCarTim.

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