Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian finds himself at the center of a heated debate as his team prepares for the College Football Playoff. The spotlight is on the quarterback position, with discussions intensifying over whether Quinn Ewers or Arch Manning should start against Clemson. The controversy stems from Ewers’ recent performance during Texas’ loss to Georgia in the SEC Championship, which has reignited questions about his reliability in crucial games.
Ewers, who has been Texas’ starting quarterback, is known for his consistent but unspectacular play. However, his effectiveness in high-pressure situations has been called into question. In the Longhorns’ two losses to Georgia, Ewers completed just 58.4% of his passes, a significant drop compared to his 68.8% completion rate in victories. In those defeats, he managed only three touchdowns against three interceptions, contrasting sharply with his 22 touchdowns and six interceptions in wins. His overall numbers this season—66.2% completion rate and 242.3 passing yards per game—are also a decline from his previous season, where he completed 70.7% of his passes for 287.4 yards per game.
Meanwhile, Arch Manning has made the most of his limited opportunities. When Ewers was sidelined with an abdominal injury, Manning impressed in his two starts, including a standout performance against Mississippi State where he completed 26 of 31 passes for two touchdowns with no interceptions. Sarkisian has also utilized Manning in pivotal moments during recent games, highlighting his potential as a playmaker.
When asked about managing the quarterback situation on The Rich Eisen Show, Sarkisian emphasized his focus on what benefits the team rather than outside opinions. “I try not to consume myself with what y’all think,” Sarkisian stated. “We focus on the task at hand, and that’s what’s in the best interest of the team to win ball games. If I let the emotional roller coaster of what other people think take over me, I’d be an emotional nightmare.”
Addressing the balance between his two quarterbacks, Sarkisian praised both players and acknowledged the value they bring to the team. He noted that Ewers’ steady presence and Manning’s dynamic potential are assets that allow Texas to adapt offensively. Sarkisian highlighted Manning’s contributions in specific situations, stating, “Arch is a great player. … We are fortunate to have both of those guys in that room. When our run game isn’t going, we become a limited offense. We like to utilize some of Arch’s strengths when those opportunities present themselves.”
As Texas gears up to face Clemson in the playoff, Sarkisian’s decision could have major implications for the team’s chances. The game is scheduled for Saturday at 4 p.m. ET, with fans and analysts eagerly awaiting whether Ewers or Manning will take the first snap under center. Despite the ongoing buzz, Sarkisian remains focused on keeping the team unified and ready for the challenges ahead.