Quinn Ewers and Arch Manning are at the center of a heated debate among Texas Longhorns fans as they prepare for a crucial College Football Playoff semifinal against the No. 6 Ohio State Buckeyes. While Ewers has been the starting quarterback for most of the season, many supporters are calling for coach Steve Sarkisian to give Manning a chance in this high-stakes matchup. The anticipation is palpable, and the discussions surrounding who should lead the team are intensifying.
Arch Manning’s Impressive Season
Despite being primarily a backup, Arch Manning has made a significant impact during his time on the field this season. With 939 passing yards, nine touchdowns, and only two interceptions, Manning has shown he can perform under pressure. His rushing ability has also caught the eye of fans, as he has accumulated 100 yards and four touchdowns on 24 carries. His performances have left many wondering if he could be the key to unlocking Texas’s potential against Ohio State.
Manning’s experience earlier in the season adds to the intrigue. He started two games while Ewers was sidelined with an abdominal injury, leading Texas to convincing victories over ULM and Mississippi State. His ability to step up in critical moments has made a strong case for his inclusion in the starting lineup for the upcoming game.
Quinn Ewers’ Dominance
On the other hand, Quinn Ewers is expected to retain his starting role for the semifinal clash. Ewers delivered a standout performance in the College Football Playoff quarterfinal against Arizona State, where he completed 20 of 30 passes for 322 yards and three touchdowns. He also showcased his versatility by rushing for a touchdown, leading Texas to a thrilling 39-31 victory in double overtime. Given this strong showing, it’s no surprise that Sarkisian is likely to stick with Ewers as his starting quarterback against Ohio State.
Ewers has been a consistent performer throughout the season, and his ability to lead the team in high-pressure situations cannot be overlooked. His experience and leadership on the field are invaluable, especially in a game of this magnitude.
Urban Meyer Weighs In
The debate over who should start has even caught the attention of former Jacksonville Jaguars coach Urban Meyer. During an appearance on “The Herd with Colin Cowherd,” Meyer praised Manning’s potential but also emphasized that the young quarterback still needs to elevate his game. He noted that while Manning has shown flashes of brilliance, he hasn’t yet reached a level where he can dominate consistently.
Meyer stated, “Here’s the thing about Arch, I think he’s going to be a great player… But when I watched – and I did, I went back and watched a bunch of his tape – it’s not like he’s overwhelming yet.” He further explained that he doesn’t see a drastic difference between Manning and Ewers at this point in their careers, suggesting that Ewers’ experience may give him the edge for the upcoming game.
The Stakes Are High
As Texas prepares to face Ohio State, the stakes couldn’t be higher. This semifinal game represents a chance for the Longhorns to solidify their place among the elite in college football. With the pressure mounting, the decision regarding the starting quarterback could significantly impact the outcome of the game.
Fans are divided, with some advocating for Manning’s inclusion based on his impressive statistics and potential, while others believe Ewers’ experience and recent performance make him the better choice. The excitement surrounding this decision only adds to the anticipation of the game itself.
Looking Ahead
As the Longhorns gear up for their showdown with the Buckeyes, the coaching staff must weigh all factors carefully. Will they stick with the proven leadership of Quinn Ewers, or will they take a gamble on the promising talent of Arch Manning? The decision could shape the future of Texas football.
Regardless of who takes the field as the starting quarterback, one thing is certain: the Longhorns will need to bring their A-game to compete against a formidable Ohio State team. With the eyes of the college football world watching, both Ewers and Manning have the chance to make a lasting impression in this pivotal matchup.
In the end, whether it’s Ewers or Manning leading the charge, the Longhorns will be looking to secure a victory and advance further in the College Football Playoff. The excitement is building, and fans can hardly wait to see how this thrilling narrative unfolds on the field.
