While the Texas Longhorns dominated the Clemson Tigers on the ground, piling up an impressive 292 rushing yards, head coach Steve Sarkisian believes that Quinn Ewers‘ sneaky excellent performance is hidden in those numbers. The Longhorns took down the ACC Champions, Tigers, by a score of 38-24 and have moved on to face the Arizona State Sun Devils. Texas will vye to take down another conference champion as they return to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, where they lost the SEC Championship to the Bulldogs.
Quinn Ewers has been under the scope throughout the whole NCAA season. He faced heavy scrutiny, with many fans calling for backup Arch Manning to take his spot as Ewers struggled and dealt with an ankle injury. However, the Texas-born-and-bred quarterback battled and prevailed, showcasing resilience and determination.
After the victory over Clemson, Sarkisian issued a special message on Ewers’ impact, which may have gone overlooked. “I thought Quinn (Ewers) did a great job. On both Jaydon Blue‘s touchdown runs, those were audibles by Quinn to that run,” Steve Sarkisian said. “We really challenged them on the run game. From the opening meeting getting ready for the ballgame to the intent in which we practiced, I thought we had a good plan.” This acknowledgment from Sarkisian highlights the importance of Ewers’ contributions beyond just the statistics.
Ewers sends message to the rest of the team
While a decision on his future is still pending, Ewers might be playing his final games in the burnt orange. If that’s the case, he hopes to leave college football with a bang. Last season ended in dismay for the Longhorns, who lost to the Washington Huskies in the CFP semifinal. This time around, Ewers hopes the team can exorcise their past’s ghosts.
“I think it motivates the entire team,” Ewers stated. “Us being so close last year, a couple plays away from going to the National Championship, and then who knows what happens. But you can’t live in that dream. We just try to go 1-0 each and every day, each and every week, and then see where that gets us.” This mindset reflects the team’s determination and focus on the present, which is crucial as they advance in the playoffs.
Klubnik’s statement
It could turn into a magical run for Ewers and the Longhorns, a grand redemption. Texas started their postseason path with a statement win against Clemson, providing closure for Ewers, as he defeated Tigers quarterback Cade Klubnik, who had prevailed over Ewers during the 2021 6A D2 State Championship. Both talented QBs met again, back in Austin, and this time it was Ewers who got the last laugh.
However, Klubnik issued a sincere admission, cherishing the accolade he and Clemson accomplished. “I hate losing, and I hate losing in the playoffs. But nobody picked us to be here in the beginning,” Klubnik commented. “Nobody believed in us. Nobody really wanted us here. But we believed in each other, and this group of guys that has fought together.” His words resonate with the spirit of competition and the camaraderie that defines college football.
The road ahead for the Longhorns
Looking ahead, the Longhorns are gearing up for their next challenge against the Arizona State Sun Devils. This matchup promises to be another thrilling contest as Texas aims to continue their momentum from the Clemson victory. With a potent rushing attack and Ewers’ growing confidence, the Longhorns will be a formidable opponent.
The stakes are high, and the pressure is palpable. Fans are eager to see if Ewers can maintain his upward trajectory and lead Texas back to the National Championship conversation. The team’s resilience and determination will be tested as they navigate the challenges of the playoffs.
As the Longhorns prepare for their next game, the focus remains on teamwork and execution. Ewers’ leadership and ability to adapt will be crucial in overcoming the Sun Devils. With the support of their passionate fan base, Texas is poised to make a deep playoff run.
In the world of college football, every game is a new opportunity, and the Longhorns are ready to seize theirs. With Ewers at the helm, the team is not just looking to win; they are aiming to leave a lasting legacy. Can they rise to the occasion and fulfill their dreams? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the excitement surrounding Texas football is at an all-time high.
As the playoffs unfold, the Longhorns’ journey will be closely watched, and their fans will be cheering them on every step of the way. The road to glory is never easy, but with determination, skill, and a little bit of luck, the Texas Longhorns could very well find themselves on the brink of greatness once again.
