As we have gotten familiar with the dangers of suffering head trauma in contact sports over the past decade, concussions are not a matter to take lightly.
Simply put, sustaining injuries sucks, especially if a player is a true warrior. Sophomore quarterback Arch Manning has shown throughout the course of the season that he wants to charge out onto the gridiron despite possible bodily harm.
Early in the Mississippi State game, Manning was ushered toward the medical tent, and he refused to go in, waving his right hand in disapproval.
Sometimes, it’s important to take a step back and give your body some much-needed rest before heading into the toughest stretch of the schedule. Even when every game going forward is a must-win.
According to the NCAA Concussion Safety Protocol List, for an athlete to return to their sport, they must complete six steps under the supervision of a health care provider. Each step typically takes around a day to complete.
Assuming Manning started the protocol on Sunday or Monday, and with recent reports that came out on Wednesday stating he practiced, he should be able to start for this Saturday’s showdown with No. 9 Vanderbilt.
While all the signs point to Manning being behind center against the Commodores, an injury like a concussion should not be rushed, no matter the circumstances. Do not jeopardize the health of a young man for a game that can be won with your backup.
The Longhorns’ protection around Manning this entire season has been questionable. Manning’s grandfather, with whom he shares a namesake, was abused and battered throughout his NFL career. It was a common sight to see Archie Manning writhing on the floor of the Superdome in the 1970s.
It seems history is repeating itself.
For the younger Manning, the past four games have been unforgiving. He has already been sacked 18 times this season, with 15 of those coming within the last four contests.
Unfortunately, we have seen what happens when a player is rushed onto the field after a concussion. Back in 2022, Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa suffered a concussion in back-to-back weeks, with his second against the Cincinnati Bengals that saw him seize up on the field.
It was an ugly sight, and I know most people, regardless of affiliation, do not want to see a young athlete in that situation.
Texas has a capable backup in senior quarterback Matthew Caldwell. Everyone is still in awe of his gusty 10-yard touchdown to sophomore wide receiver Emmett Mosley V last week against the Bulldogs. He also made an impressive toss to sophomore wide receiver Ryan Wingo for a 26-yard completion against Florida.
Caldwell is capable of making big throws on short notice. Now, with the opportunity to play with the most talented roster in his career, he will do just fine in place of Manning.
I know wins and losses dictate this business of college athletics, but for the sake of the young quarterback. His long-term health is more important, especially if your backup has been good for the team in his few appearances this season.
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