Texas Head Coach Steve Sarkisian and the Quinn Ewers Dilemma: A Breakdown of the SEC Title Game and Beyond
The relationship between Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian and quarterback Quinn Ewers has become a central storyline as the Longhorns navigate their first season in the SEC. With the stakes at their highest, Texas faced Georgia in the SEC Championship Game, and it seemed like Sarkisian was poised to get his revenge on the Bulldogs. As the first half closed, Texas held a narrow 6-3 lead, putting them in a strong position.
However, the game took a turn in the second half. Poor execution, inconsistent offensive plays, and costly interceptions from Ewers allowed Georgia to claw back, ultimately securing a 16-13 victory. The loss denied Texas the chance to claim the coveted SEC title in their inaugural season in the conference and forced them into an extra game in the College Football Playoff (CFP) for a shot at the national championship.
This defeat reignited the ongoing debate about Texas’ quarterback situation, specifically between Quinn Ewers and Arch Manning. While Ewers is the clear QB1 for this season, the future remains uncertain, especially in 2025. The questions loom: will Ewers declare for the NFL Draft, or will he choose to return for another season?
The Ewers Conundrum
Ewers, despite his inconsistency, has showcased moments of brilliance. Scouts generally agree that he has the potential to be a first-round NFL Draft pick based on his performances in 2023 and early 2024. However, they also suggest that another year in college could greatly benefit his development. This creates a dilemma for the Longhorns, as Ewers’ decision will have significant ramifications for the program.
If Ewers returns for another season, it could lead to friction in the quarterback room. Arch Manning, his highly touted backup, is eager to step into the starting role. The possibility of either Ewers or Manning transferring is becoming increasingly plausible.
The Arch Manning Factor
Arch Manning, one of the most hyped quarterback prospects in recent years, has shown flashes of potential in his limited opportunities. In his first career start against UL Monroe, he completed 15 of 29 passes for 258 yards, two touchdowns, and two interceptions, leading Texas to a dominant 51-3 victory. Over the season, Manning has thrown for 939 yards, nine touchdowns, and two interceptions, adding four rushing touchdowns on the ground. His steady improvement suggests he could take over as Texas’ starter as soon as next year.
Amid this uncertainty, speculation about Manning’s future has emerged. One potential destination is the University of North Carolina (UNC), now led by newly appointed head coach Bill Belichick. The move to UNC would be intriguing, given the program’s recent success in developing NFL-caliber quarterbacks like Mitch Trubisky and Drake Maye.
Belichick’s reputation for cultivating talent could be a game-changer for a young quarterback like Manning. His history of working with quarterbacks, including guiding Matt Cassel to an 11-win season in 2008 after Tom Brady’s injury, underscores his ability to maximize a player’s potential.
The Stakes for Texas
For Texas, the focus remains on the immediate future. Sarkisian must carefully manage the quarterback situation during the postseason. A poor decision could derail their chances of securing a national championship, a feat that would solidify Sarkisian’s legacy and affirm Texas’ status as a powerhouse in the SEC.
Ewers’ decision to stay or leave will have a ripple effect on the program. If he declares for the draft, Manning is almost certain to step into the starting role. However, if Ewers returns, the likelihood of Manning transferring increases. UNC, with its history of developing top-tier quarterbacks and the allure of Belichick’s mentorship, would be a natural fit.
Looking Ahead
Ultimately, the quarterback question remains unresolved. Ewers’ performances in the playoff games will likely influence his decision, but the Longhorns face significant challenges regardless of what he chooses. Sarkisian’s ability to navigate this situation will be critical to Texas’ success in the coming years. Whether Ewers stays, declares for the NFL Draft, or transfers, one thing is clear: the Longhorns’ quarterback decisions in the next few months will shape the
program’s future trajectory.