If there’s a family that screams football royalty, it’s the Sanders clan. “Prime Time” was a two-sport superstar, a Hall of Famer who backed up every ounce of flash with production. Fast forward to today, and he’s still always in the spotlight. On paper, the Sanders name carries weight in every NFL conversation. But when fans start tossing around the phrase ‘American royalty,’ the road gets bumpier. And that’s because the crown still tends to rest a little more heavily on the Manning family tree. Why? Well, part of it comes down to timing and stability.

Peyton and Eli stamped their legacies with Super Bowl rings and Hall of Fame credentials. And now, the next generation has already taken the baton, with Arch Manning flashing the pedigree that makes scouts giddy. And one national analyst, perhaps subconsciously, agrees with this sentiment. Colin Cowherd told Joel Klatt on his show that he isn’t worried about Arch Manning starting for Texas this season, even in a challenging opening game against Ohio State. Why? Because Arch is already habituated to big moments like this.

And his last name plays a major factor in it. “They all have a very strong sense of self. They’re not insecure…All the Mannings share that quality,” Cowherd said on the Joel Klatt show. “Humility and they can laugh at themselves. And I think when you have that as a function of your personality, that you’re not too uptight, you’re not too rigid. I mean, all the Mannings, Manning family dinners are a big event. Texas football practice feels like a big event.” Collectively, this family boasts over 1,000 NFL touchdowns and four Super Bowl rings. Arch, now a redshirt sophomore, may be relatively new to the college scene, but he’s already embracing the weight of that legacy.

“Do you know how many big games Arch has gone to that weren’t his?” Cowherd added.“It’s like the Mannings are American football royalty. In the history of the sport.” There’s real weight behind that statement. Arch Manning has been immersed in high-stakes football moments his whole life, stepping into his starting role for Texas this season. Between watching countless games of his legendary uncles and absorbing lessons from his father, Cooper and his grandfather, Archie. Arch has practically been groomed at this theater.

In comparison, the Sanders family, while undeniably rich in football talent and charisma, faces a bit more uncertainty. Shedeur Sanders, one of Deion Sanders’ sons, has shown flashes as a quarterback but is currently navigating an unclear future with the Cleveland Browns. He is lacking a confirmed starting position. On the other hand, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers waived Shilo Sanders, another son, for throwing punches during the game. His behavior was termed “inexcusable” by Todd Bowles.

This shows that the path for the younger Sanders generation isn’t as firmly established or secure. So when Arch takes the field to face Ohio State in a top-ranked season opener, it won’t be uncharted territory. The Mannings built their legacy on concrete tradition. They passed their deep foundation of football pedigree across generations. The Sanders family, on the other hand, has undeniable star power and charisma. But their current public image leans more toward spectacular flair and media presence.

Why Arch Manning isn’t chasing the spotlight like Shedeur Sanders?

Arch Manning is distinctly carving out his own path in college football. It’s one that deliberately distances itself from the flashy, media-driven culture often associated with the Sanders. Arch’s stance reflects more than just a personality preference. It speaks to a deep-rooted philosophy passed down through the Manning family legacy. A culture built on discipline, leadership, and a team-first mentality rather than individual spotlight or showmanship.

Arch made headlines as he openly stated he’s not the type to seek media attention. “I’m not a guy who seeks the media – no offense, guys,” he said. “It’s really about the team. Eleven guys on the field, so we’re excited right now, and I’m just having fun. I dreamed of being in this position, so I’m not going to take it for granted.” This sentiment harks back to his uncle Peyton and grandfather Archie Manning.

They are revered for their calm command under center. Arch fits seamlessly into this model, embodying precision, preparation, and a focus on execution within Texas coach Steve Sarkisian’s structured, methodical offense. This approach is a stark contrast to Shedeur and Shilo Sanders and the culture at Colorado, which has gained attention for its social media presence, flashy celebrations, and a blend of entertainment with performance.