Odd reason given for why Arch Manning opted out of 'College Football 25'

Does he know he doesn't actually play in the game? Has anyone ever told him Mario isn't really an Italian plumber?

It's perfectly fine for Manning not to opt in. Coming from his family, it's not like he needs the $600. But the idea that being included in a video game is a distraction is silly. It's not as though he'd be forced to play the free copy offered to those who signed up or promote the game as one of its official ambassadors.

As amusing as his reasoning is, Manning can't be faulted for putting his focus on improving his craft.

Manning appeared in two games in 2023, beginning the season third on the depth chart behind Ewers and Maalik Murphy, who entered the transfer portal ahead of the College Football Playoff semifinal. 

Manning went 2-of-5 for 30 yards and added three rush attempts for seven yards in his limited action.

Ewers has missed five games over the past two seasons due to injury, opening the door for Manning to potentially receive playing time in Texas' first season as an SEC member.

Earlier on Monday, EA Sports revealed more than 10,000 college football players opted into the revived game, including Ewers, Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe and Colorado's Travis Hunter.