Transparency: Most of this shtick I observed myself. Some of it is culled from national scribes as obsessive as moi. 

Of course, Arch Manning was born calling signals on 1st & Goal at the one yard line, CFP title on the line. Along with a bassinet full of NIL perks. And a lifetime pass for Domilise’s po boys.

He’s the unnamed unnecessary backup to Fansville police Chief Brian Bosworth’s deputy. Sort of like third in command behind Barney Fife and Chief Andy in Mayberry.

It’s not like every QB phenom has quite the same schooling and advantages from the get go. Enough to understand, being 2d team to a legit Heisman candidate on a viable title aspirant is just alright. Besides  Austin’s a pretty cool place to hang out.

Here’s what we learned Saturday. As if we weren’t already sorta in the know.

The kid can play.

Starter First Deputy Qwinn Ewers went out in the 2d Q with some sort of stomach pull.

After which, young Mr. Manning went 9/12 for 223, throwing four TD passes. Ran another one in from 67 yards out.

Sure the foe was UTNESW, but still.

His future appears, as you’ve heard, bright enough for shades.

 * * * * *

Since they filed a lawsuit to abandon their current league affiliation for a league more worthy of its hubris, Florida State is 0-4.

Hard to root for Memphis State, but admit a smirk ensued while observing the abject ineptitude of the Seminoles.

 * * * * *

J.M. Atherton High School Rebels (3-1) 57, Doss Dragons 28.

Because of blowback from “Game of Thrones” fans, the 40214 school may have been forced to change their nickname. Haven’t been paying attention.

 * * * * *

The quote that resonates after Saturday’s doings in Pasadena.

“I win. Google me.” So advised IU coach Curt Cignetti at his intorductory presser.

More about undefeated Hoosiers come Wednesday in prognostication recap.

 * * * * *

As previously mentioned, it was a rivalry week of sorts.

In Oregon. And Washington. And Colorado. And Utah.

But, in a turn toward that other sport known as football — futbol — here’s a rivalry with some history.

The North London Derby. (Pronounced “darby.”)

Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur have played 196 times since 1887.

My Spurs fell at home on Sunday, 1 zed.

 * * * * *

Big (Black and) Blue Nation made the Waiting List in Ryan McGee’s sumptuous Bottom Ten last week.

It was after the South Carolina game. So perhaps they won’t appear this week. Just wanted to mention.

 * * * * *

MAC schools most always have some early season surprises.

Not only Northern Illinois this season.

The Toledo Rockets crushed Cowbell State 41-7. In StarkVegas.

 * * * * *

Every one of the 14 passes Wolverine QB Davis Warren tossed Saturday against Arkansas State was caught.

Eleven by teammates. Three by Red Wolves.

No Benny Friedman, he.

 * * * * *

Coming Wednesday. Picks for this weekend.

My advice: Pay attention.

You’ll read why.

— c d kaplan