Arch Manning or Quinn Ewers to start vs Oklahoma? Texas HC makes decision on starting QB
Sarkisian has made up his mind on who will start per reports
As the Texas Longhorns prepare for their pivotal showdown against the Oklahoma Sooners, a significant decision looms over the quarterback position-one that could define their season. The next man under center for Texas, according to recent reports, is likely to be none other than Quinn Ewers.
Sources from 247Sports reveal that Ewers is expected to return and start in the Longhorns’ Oct. 12 rivalry matchup following a bye week. This comes after Ewers suffered an abdominal strain against UTSA on Sept. 14, sidelining him for the past two games. Despite the injury, Texas has managed to keep rolling, thanks in no small part to a certain high-profile backup
Arch Manning, the highly anticipated five-star recruit and nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, filled in admirably during Ewers’ absence. The young quarterback didn’t just fill in-he shined. Manning led Texas to victories over UL Monroe and Mississippi State, showing flashes of brilliance that lived up to the hype surrounding his arrival. His stat lines for the three games included a standout 26-of-31 passing performance for 324 yards against MSU, cementing his status as one of college football’s most exciting newcomers.
Yet, as head coach Steve Sarkisian pointed out, Ewers’ recovery has been steady. “We’ve had no setbacks,” Sarkisian mentioned, adding that Ewers is growing stronger and more confident. Sarkisian’s words hint at a trust in Ewers’ leadership and readiness for what lies ahead.
Texas takes on their eternal rival in the Red River showdown
The upcoming game against Oklahoma marks a crucial turning point for Texas. Ewers had already turned heads earlier this season with a dominating performance against the reigning champion Michigan Wolverines, in which he threw for three touchdowns, propelling himself into early Heisman Trophy conversations. It was a game that showcased his poise and capability to lead the Longhorns on the big stage.
However, the recent success with Manning has made the choice far from straightforward. Texas now has the luxury-and potential controversy-of a quarterback room packed with elite talent. Manning’s consistent growth game-by-game presents a dilemma: stick with the established starter or let the rising star continue his upward trajectory?
Ewers’ return comes at a critical juncture, with back-to-back games against Oklahoma and Georgia set to shape the Longhorns’ season. With Texas A&M standing as the only ranked team left on the schedule after these two tests, the next couple of weeks could be pivotal in Texas’ hunt for a conference title and a possible College Football Playoff berth.
For now, all eyes will be on whether Ewers can make a successful comeback and keep Texas on track. But the young Manning, with his sky-high potential, may just be waiting for another chance to prove he’s ready for the spotlight-even sooner than anyone expected.
