Marshall Manning, son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Peyton Manning, entered his first varsity football game for Baylor School on Thursday night, completing his initial pass attempt. The 14-year-old quarterback relieved senior starter Keegan Croucher in the second quarter.
Baylor head coach Erik Kimrey stated that the plan was for Manning to play in every game, even if it was just for a few snaps. "We need him next year, and he needs to get ready," Kimrey said, according to USA Today. Manning, wearing No. 16, the same number his father wore at the University of Tennessee and his cousin Arch Manning currently wears at the University of Texas, rolled right on his first snap and delivered a pass to Antwaun Adams. The pass narrowly avoided a defender before being completed. He then handed off the ball on the subsequent possession before returning to the sideline.
Manning enrolled at Baylor School after previously attending Kent Denver School in Colorado. He entered the season as the backup quarterback behind Ole Miss commit Keegan Croucher, carrying significant expectations due to his family's prominent history at the quarterback position. His father, Peyton Manning, won two Super Bowls and five MVP awards during his 17-year NFL career. His uncle, Eli Manning, also won two Super Bowls with the New York Giants. His grandfather, Archie Manning, was a notable college quarterback and played 14 seasons in the NFL. His cousin, Arch Manning, is entering his third season with the Texas Longhorns and is considered a potential top NFL draft pick.
Kimrey indicated that backups typically see playing time in non-region games, suggesting Manning will have more opportunities to play throughout his freshman season. The game marked the first varsity snaps for Marshall Manning.