As the college football season nears its end, Arch Manning is making headlines. On Friday, the Longhorns quarterback was named a Top 10 finalist for the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award. Each year, the award is given to the best upperclassman quarterback in the nation. 

While this season has been full of ups and downs, Manning has led Texas to a 7-2 start. That includes three wins over teams ranked in the top 15 and two in the top ten. The Longhorns success has come from Manning's leadership and a talented defense that has made bigs stops despite missing key pieces like Colin Simmons. 

Through nine games, Manning has thrown for 2,024 yards and 18 touchdowns. The Louisiana native has also been a threat with his legs, adding 119 rushing yards to his resume, the third-most on the team. Over the last two weeks, Manning has taken his game to another level with six passing touchdowns and zero interceptions. His latest stellar effort led to a much-needed comeback win over Missouri on Saturday. 

If Manning wins the honor, he will join a former program legend. In 2009, Colt McCoy was the winner. Two years ago, Quinn Ewers was a finalist in his final season under center. With a few games still left before the postseason, Manning has time to build his case. 

Over the remainder of the regular season, the field will continue to narrow before finalists are selected and one quarterback adds to their trophy case. The winner will be celebrated at the annual Golden Arm Award ceremony in Baltimore on Wednesday, Dec. 9. While Manning is facing competition, he seems to have found his groove at the perfect time.

With the NFL Draft on the horizon, ending his college career with the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award would be a strong way to close out Manning's time in the burnt orange.