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Who is KJ Lacey Jr.? What to know about Arch Manning's backup at Texas

With Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning under scrutiny following back-to-back losses to Oklahoma and Florida, speculation has grown over whether coach Steve Sarkisian will turn to redshirt freshman KJ Lacey Jr. for more prominent playing time.

Lacey, a former four-star recruit from Alabama, has already seen limited action this season, completing just one pass in each of his two appearances. His high school career at Saraland was marked by dominance, leading the team to three consecutive state championship appearances and compiling 9,667 passing yards and 122 touchdowns over three seasons.

Lacey’s standout performances included a 40-touchdown, 3,177-yard sophomore season and a junior year with 42 touchdowns and 3,448 yards, despite falling short in back-to-back title games. Despite interest from other Power Five programs, Lacey committed to Texas in 2023 and has yet to establish himself as a full-time starter at the collegiate level.

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