Quinn Ewers is on track to return as the starting quarterback for No. 1 Texas this week against rival No. 18 Oklahoma, according to Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian. Sarkisian indicated on Monday that they will closely monitor Ewers’ recovery from an abdominal injury throughout the week.
“If we had to play today, sure,” Sarkisian remarked, affirming Ewers’ status as the starter. He noted that Ewers practiced last week and continued to do so early Monday.
“I thought he looked good,” Sarkisian added. “I feel good about him going Saturday, but that remains to be seen.”
The Longhorns enjoyed a bye week last week.
“If anybody benefited from the time off, it was probably him,” Sarkisian stated, emphasizing the positive impact of rest on Ewers’ recovery.
Ewers had missed the last two games after leaving the first half of a victory over UTSA due to a strained abdomen. In his absence, freshman Arch Manning stepped in and successfully guided Texas (5-0, 1-0 SEC) to victories over Louisiana-Monroe and Mississippi State.
After a brief drop to No. 2, Texas reclaimed the No. 1 ranking this week following their win over Mississippi State.
Ewers has accumulated 691 passing yards and eight touchdowns this season, drawing attention as a potential Heisman Trophy candidate after leading Texas to a remarkable victory at Michigan in the second game of the season.
Manning, in his starting role, has thrown for 901 yards and nine touchdowns, showcasing his own impressive skills.
Ewers’ anticipated return against Oklahoma (4-1, 1-1) parallels his situation in 2022 when he missed three games due to a clavicle injury but made a strong comeback, leading Texas to a decisive 49-0 victory over the Sooners.
Sarkisian expressed confidence in Manning as well, stating, “I have no hesitation of Arch going into the game” if needed.
