While there’s been ongoing debate about whether Quinn Ewers can rise to the occasion, one former college football star has made his choice clear: Johnny Manziel believes Ewers is the quarterback to trust in the College Football Playoff. With the stakes higher than ever, this endorsement carries significant weight.
Trust in the Moment
Manziel’s confidence in Ewers stems from his track record in clutch situations. He remarked, “I think I’d rather take Quinn, with the way he played and some of those clutch moments against Arizona State.” The Texas QB has proven himself in high-pressure scenarios, and Manziel is not alone in recognizing this. He pointed out that Ewers has already experienced the intensity of back-to-back college football playoffs, showcasing his ability to perform when it matters most.
Quarterback Showdown
Ewers isn’t the only quarterback vying for glory in the semifinals. He’ll be facing off against Will Howard from Ohio State, Riley Leonard from Notre Dame, and Drew Allar from Penn State. Each of these players has their own strengths, but Manziel’s faith in Ewers suggests that he believes the Texas signal-caller has the edge when the game is on the line.
Proving His Worth
Nothing exemplified Ewers’ clutch performance more than his stunning fourth-down touchdown pass in overtime against Arizona State. With the game hanging in the balance, Ewers delivered, extending the Longhorns’ season and propelling them into the semifinals. This moment encapsulated why Manziel and many others have faith in his abilities.
But how did Ewers arrive at this pivotal moment in his career? He reflected on his journey, recalling the first time he was entrusted with the quarterback role at Texas. “Well, I can tell you my first fall camp here, obviously, I was battling with Hudson Card to earn the starting job,” he shared. Earning that starting position was a significant milestone for him, and he credits his coach, Sark, for instilling that confidence in him.
Building Confidence
Ewers continued, “That year, there were definitely some ups and downs going on with the injury. We came out the first quarter against Alabama in 2022, and we were rolling as an offense.” This experience helped solidify his confidence, not just in himself but among his teammates as well. It’s this kind of growth and resilience that has led him to this moment in the College Football Playoff.
As the Longhorns prepare to face Ohio State, Ewers is ready to showcase his skills on the biggest stage. The matchup promises to be thrilling, with both teams bringing their A-game. Ewers and his Texas squad will need to harness all their experience and confidence to outshine Howard and the Buckeyes.
Looking Ahead: The Semifinals
The upcoming games are set to be nail-biters. Ewers and Texas will take on Howard and Ohio State this Friday in the Cotton Bowl, while Leonard and Notre Dame will face Allar and Penn State on Thursday in the Orange Bowl. Fans are eagerly anticipating these matchups, and the excitement is palpable.
What will it take for Ewers and his team to secure a victory? It’s simple: they must play with the confidence and poise that have brought them this far. The stakes are high, and every play counts. As Ewers himself noted, knowing he has the support of his teammates and coaching staff boosts his confidence immensely.
The Road to Glory
As the College Football Playoff unfolds, all eyes will be on these quarterbacks. With Ewers leading the charge for Texas, there’s a sense of optimism surrounding the Longhorns. Fans are hopeful that he can deliver another memorable performance, just like he did against Arizona State.
In the world of college football, moments like these define careers. Ewers has the chance to etch his name in history, not just as a talented quarterback but as a leader who can guide his team through adversity. The journey is just beginning, and the excitement is building.
So, can Ewers rise to the occasion? With Manziel’s endorsement and his own track record, there’s every reason to believe he can. As the playoffs approach, one thing is certain: college football fans are in for a thrilling ride.
