Arch vows to be better as SEC play approaches

""I know the type of player that I am," Manning said Monday as he answered another round of questions about a poor outing in last week's win over UTEP. "I know I'm going to play better and we're going to be better as an offense." This week's matchup with Sam Houston, a program in only its third season of FCS-level competition, would typically be an afterthought for the No. 8 team in the country."

"Manning's play so far has stoked the embers of doubt. He struggled badly in a season-opening win against Ohio State. He started slow the next week but rallied with four touchdown passes against San Jose State. His day against UTEP was downright rough. Manning was 11 of 25 passing for 114 yards with one touchdown and an interception. He had a streak of 10 consecutive incompletions. He side-armed some throws and missed open receivers. There were boos late in the first half."

Arch Manning acknowledged a poor outing and promised better days and improved play, insisting the offense will click. Early-season performances included a rough start against Ohio State, a rally with four touchdown passes versus San Jose State, and a difficult day against UTEP with 11 of 25 passing for 114 yards, one touchdown and one interception. A streak of 10 consecutive incompletions and visible mistakes provoked boos and raised fan concern. The upcoming Sam Houston game is cast as a must-watch for signs of progress, though strong stats against lesser competition may be dismissed.

Read at ESPN.com