Two weeks had passed since Texas faced Georgia in the SEC Championship, and excitement was building for a College Football Playoff showdown against Clemson. The anticipation was palpable, especially for quarterback Quinn Ewers, who had the chance to rest his right ankle during the break. Initially, there were expectations that he would not wear the ankle brace again after the layoff, but as the game approached, fans were left wondering how he would perform.
Unexpected Brace on Game Day
As the game kicked off, ESPN’s Laura Rutledge made an intriguing observation: Ewers was indeed wearing the brace. Just moments before, it had been reported that he would not be using it. What happened during warmups? It was a question on everyone’s mind. Rutledge noted, “He was not wearing it in warmups but then had it on when he came out to play. I would imagine something happened in warmups. He’s obviously feeling well enough to be out there.”
Despite the unexpected brace, Ewers showcased his talent and determination. He completed 17 of 24 passes for 202 yards, adding a touchdown to his impressive performance. The only blemish on his stat line was an interception that bounced off the hands of wide receiver DeAndre Moore and landed in the hands of a Clemson defender. Nevertheless, Texas fans were thrilled with Ewers’ overall performance, as many believe his play is crucial to the Longhorns’ chances of winning a national championship.
Mobility and Performance
How did Ewers handle the pressure of the game? His mobility was put to the test, and while the numbers might not reflect it—four rushes for -3 yards due to sacks—he demonstrated a level of comfort and agility when moving around the pocket. It’s not just about the stats; it’s about how a quarterback can navigate the field under duress. Ewers showed he could do just that, proving he was ready for the challenge.
Postgame, Ewers expressed his feelings about the brace. “I feel good, I feel great,” he said. “I mean, it’s not going to hurt. So, I just decided to put it (the ankle brace) on.” His attitude was a testament to his resilience and focus as he led his team to victory.
A Bright Future Ahead
The victory against Clemson was not just a win; it was a statement. With another extended break on the horizon, Texas fans can look forward to nearly two weeks of preparation before their next game. The Longhorns will face Arizona State in the CFP quarterfinal, scheduled for an early kickoff at noon ET at the Peach Bowl. This additional time off could be crucial for Ewers and the team as they gear up for this significant matchup.
The Longhorns have a lot to be excited about. Ewers’ performance, combined with the talent surrounding him, has fans dreaming big. Can Texas make a deep run in the playoffs? Many believe that Ewers’ health and performance will be key to their success.
What’s Next for Texas?
As Texas prepares for the upcoming game, the focus will be on maintaining momentum and ensuring that Ewers stays healthy. With so much at stake, the Longhorns need their star quarterback to be at his best. His ability to perform under pressure will be tested again, and fans are eager to see how he handles it.
Ewers’ strong showing against Clemson has certainly raised expectations. Texas is not just another team in the playoff; they are contenders. The combination of Ewers’ skill, the coaching staff’s strategy, and the support from the fans creates an atmosphere charged with excitement.
So, what does this mean for the Longhorns moving forward? It means they have the potential to go far, but they must remain focused and disciplined. The road to a national championship is never easy, but with Ewers at the helm, anything is possible.
In the end, Texas fans can breathe a sigh of relief. Ewers felt healthy and ready to lead his team, and the victory against Clemson was a significant step toward their ultimate goal. The Longhorns are on the right path, and as they prepare for the Peach Bowl, the excitement continues to build. Will this be the year Texas finally captures that elusive championship? Only time will tell, but for now, they are in the mix, and that’s what college football is all about!
