AUSTIN -- The Texas Longhorns staged their "Football Fan Day" event at Darrell K. Royal Stadium on Saturday, with no formal scrimmage taking place, but instead an open practice. While there were scrimmage reps at one point in the practice, several of the Longhorns' star skill-position players, like Auburn Tigers transfer receiver Cam Coleman, quarterback Arch Manning, and Ryan Wingo, only took part in pass coverage drills. Former Saraland High School star KJ Lacey and Coastal Carolina Chanticleers transfer MJ Morris took snaps in drills, playing without Coleman and Wingo, but having transfer running backs Hollywood Smothers (NC State Wolfpack) and Raleek Brown (Arizona State Sun Devils) in the backfield, plus spring breakout Jermaine Bishop lining up in the slot.
Without any linemen facing coverage, Manning threw a few passes, connecting with Coleman on several occasions, notably on an out route and one dig route where Manning threaded the needle between corner Kade Phillips and linebacker Justin Cryer for a would-be touchdown. Manning looked adversely affected by the "minor" foot surgery procedure he had in the offseason.
The reps weren't worth much, even if it was in front of a DKR Stadium crowd that filled much of the lower bowl at midfield in the 20 sections and right behind the north end zone. Manning and Coleman missed the truer live reps during the limited scrimmage.
Still, there was enough shown to think Manning and Coleman will be connecting plenty this fall.
Cam Coleman earned Arch Manning's respect this spring
Per Manning on Coleman this past Wednesday, "He's an elite player ... And he wants to be good, which is the most encouraging thing. He's a hard worker. I'm excited." It's clear Manning is impressed with his $4-plus million investment.
It was also clear on The Forty Acres Saturday that Manning is going to trust Coleman to come down with throws he'd otherwise be criticized for. When Coleman and Manning connect in burnt orange, though, it's going to make them look like the next Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase.
Add us as a preferred source on Google