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

Peyton Manning picks side before Texas faces Tennessee in 2026 SEC Opener centers on how the Hall of Fame quarterback will handle divided loyalties as Arch Manning prepares for a key conference game. Texas, led by quarterback Arch Manning, is expected to contend for a spot in the College Football Playoff, but its fourth game of the season against Tennessee creates a personal dilemma for Manning. Speaking at his passing academy, Peyton said he will “pull for” his alma mater unconditionally, but emphasized that nothing is more important to him than his family. He added he backs his nephew to play well every Saturday. Texas and Tennessee will kickoff the SEC opener at noon on Sept. 26 at Rocky Top.