Peyton Manning picks side before Texas faces Tennessee in 2026 SEC Opener

One of the college football teams with the highest expectations this season is the Texas Longhorns. Led by quarterback Arch Manning, Texas is widely expected to contend for a spot in the College Football Playoff. However, the Longhorns’ fourth game of the season could create a conflict of interest for Arch’s uncle, Peyton Manning. Texas will face Peyton’s alma mater, the Tennessee Volunteers.

Manning addressed the dilemma at his passing academy when asked whether he would root for his alma mater or his nephew. His answer left little room for interpretation. He also revealed that this isn’t the first time the Manning family has faced divided loyalties.

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Who does Uncle Peyton pull for here?

“Obviously, it’s going to be a huge SEC game. My dad dealt with it when I was in college when Tennessee played Ole Miss,” Manning began. “Look, I love my university, my alma mater. Pull for them unconditionally. But nothing is more important to me than my family.”

Dec 31, 2025; Orlando, FL, USA; Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) rushes with the ball for a touchdown against the Michigan Wolverines during the second half at Camping World Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Matt Pendleton-Imagn Images

Manning didn’t stop there. He made it clear that Arch has his full support, even when he lines up against Tennessee.

“When you have a nephew playing, I pull very hard for him every single Saturday. That’s pretty much a no-brainer that you’re pulling for your nephew to play well,” Manning said.

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Manning football dynasty

It’s certainly a unique situation, but it comes with being part of one of football’s most famous families. Arch’s grandfather, Archie Manning, starred at Ole Miss before playing 14 seasons in the NFL. His uncles, Peyton and Eli Manning, were both selected No. 1 overall in the 1998 and 2004 NFL Drafts, respectively.

Dec 3, 2022; Atlanta, GA, USA; (L to R) Former NFL quarterbacks Eli Manning, Archie Manning, and Peyton Manning pose with SEC Commissioner Greg Sankey (2nd Left) prior to the SEC Championship game between the Georgia Bulldogs and the LSU Tigers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-Imagn Images

Peyton and Eli each won two Super Bowl titles during their careers. Now, many expect Arch to become the No. 1 overall pick in the 2027 NFL Draft, assuming he declares. Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian has also left the door open for Manning to return for a fifth season.

Texas and Tennessee will kick off their college football SEC opener at noon on Sept. 26 at Rocky Top.

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