Top coaches from across the country have traveled to New Orleans, LA, to watch top prospect Arch Manning play in the lights of Friday night — but not just on the football field.
Alabama coach Nick Saban, offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien and defensive coordinator Pete Golding all attended a five-star quarterback's basketball game when Isidore Newman defeated De La Salle.
However, the Crimson Tide coach isn't the first or last group to see Manning play basketball this season. Fresh from the national championships, Kirby Smart and several UGA staff members toured earlier this week.
Manning's coach Nelson Stewart told The Advertiser on Wednesday that LSU recruiting and special teams coordinator Brian Polian and offensive coordinator Mike Denbrock would also come. Additionally, Florida coach Billy Napier, Oklahoma offensive coordinator Jeff Laby, Texas quarterback coach A.J. Millie and Ole Miss offensive coordinator Charlie Weiss Jr. has also reportedly visited or will visit Newman.
According to NCAA recruiting rules, coaches cannot interact with Manning or his family during these visits.
Manning comes from a long line of football legends as the grandson of Archie Manning and the nephew of Peyton and Allie. Even his father, Cooper, played football until a spinal condition took a toll from his career.
This football season, the 6-foot-4, 215-pound junior threw for 1,371 yards, 17 touchdowns, and only four interceptions. According to MaxPreps, during his three-year preps career, Manning has thrown 5,731 yards, 72 touchdowns and just 18 interceptions.
Per 247 Sports, Alabama, Georgia, Ole Miss and Texas are all watching the quarterback closely, hoping to snag the next Manning great. When he visited all four schools and Clemson during the fall, some coaches traveled to see him during the season, including Longhorns coach Steve Sarkeesian, Rebels coach Len Kiffin and Bulldogs coach Kirby Smart.