Sources -- Texas to give QB KJ Lacey Jr. increased first-team reps - ESPN

Arch Manning's struggles at Texas are reaching a potential crossroads.

Texas is expected to give an uptick in first-team quarterback reps to redshirt freshman KJ Lacey Jr. this week in practice, per ESPN sources.

The shift in reps indicates a greater possibility of Lacey replacing Manning if he struggles when No. 19 Texas hosts No. 7 Ole Miss on Saturday. Coach Steve Sarkisian said on Monday that Manning remains Texas' starting quarterback, but that the Longhorns need to see improvement.

«Arch can play better for us,» Sarkisian said. «He's our starter. But I need a better version of Arch Manning.»

Sarkisian said he felt like the Longhorns missed opportunities in the passing game for explosive plays. He said he had «constructive conversations» with several members of the team, including Manning, and was pleased with how his quarterback responded.

«I had a good meeting with Arch yesterday. He came out today [and] he's got a chip on his shoulder, and I appreciated it. I liked it.»

Sarkisian said that Lacey gets first-team reps every week but was noncommittal that he would get more than usual.

«Not to me, but we'll find out as the week goes,» he said.

Texas is 5-2 after losses in back-to-back games against Oklahoma and Florida. The Longhorns also possess two high-end wins — home against now No. 3 Ohio State and at No. 11 Tennessee.

Manning played poorly against Oklahoma, throwing two crucial fourth-quarter interceptions that cost Texas the game. He also struggled against Florida, completing 14 of 20 passes for 173 yards. He also fumbled in the final two minutes, which allowed Florida to seal a comeback win.

Sarkisian said afterward that the Longhorns had an open receiver on the play, but that Manning didn't see him.

Sarkisia