‘Manning Time’: Texas Football Predicted to Make Difficult Choice on Quinn Ewers, Per CFB Insider

The University of Texas football program has long been a cornerstone of college football, producing high-level talent and attracting some of the biggest names in the sport. As the 2024 season unfolds, the Longhorns face a pivotal moment in their quarterback decision-making, with head coach Steve Sarkisian predicted to make a difficult choice between incumbent starting quarterback Quinn Ewers and the highly touted freshman Arch Manning. This decision is not just a matter of picking the best quarterback for the job, but also one that could shape the future of Texas football for years to come.

With both quarterbacks offering unique strengths and potential, it’s a decision that will have far-reaching implications not only for the Longhorns’ 2024 season but also for the trajectory of the program moving forward. As Texas approaches the halfway point of the season, CFB insiders and analysts alike are starting to speculate about how head coach Sarkisian will navigate this delicate situation. In this article, we delve into the quarterback battle, the strengths of both players, and the significant choices that lie ahead for Texas football.

The Rise of Quinn Ewers

Quinn Ewers came to Texas as one of the most hyped quarterbacks in recent memory, regarded as the future face of the program. A former five-star recruit from Southlake Carroll High School in Texas, Ewers initially committed to Ohio State before transferring to Texas, where he was expected to make an immediate impact.

Ewers entered the 2023 season as the undisputed starting quarterback and showed flashes of brilliance throughout the year. His arm strength and ability to make deep throws down the field immediately caught the attention of scouts and analysts. Ewers was also praised for his leadership and maturity, key characteristics that are crucial in leading a major college football program like Texas.

However, Ewers’ 2023 campaign had its ups and downs. He experienced struggles with consistency at times, especially in high-pressure moments against top-tier teams. Some of his performances were stellar, particularly in big wins against teams like Oklahoma, but there were also times where his decision-making and accuracy were questioned. Despite these occasional inconsistencies, Ewers showed enough potential to remain the starting quarterback heading into 2024, but the arrival of Arch Manning has complicated matters.

Enter Arch Manning: The Heir Apparent

Arch Manning, the latest in a long line of talented quarterbacks from the Manning family, was one of the most sought-after recruits in recent college football history. The nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, Arch arrived in Austin as a five-star recruit with a pedigree few players can match. His commitment to Texas was seen as a monumental moment for the program, signaling its intent to return to national prominence.

Manning’s skill set is impressive, and he has the tools to be a star in college football. At 6-foot-4 and 215 pounds, he possesses the ideal size and frame for a quarterback. He is known for his poise in the pocket, quick release, and impressive accuracy on intermediate and deep throws. Manning’s football IQ is also highly regarded, as he’s been immersed in the game his entire life and has been tutored by some of the best in the business.

Despite the hype surrounding him, Manning is still a freshman and has had limited opportunities to show what he can do in live-action games. During spring camp and fall practices, there were glimpses of his talent, but also indications that he was still adjusting to the speed and complexity of college football. Some scouts have noted that Manning, while undoubtedly talented, will need time to develop into a starter at the collegiate level. Nevertheless, his presence in the program has created significant buzz, and it is clear that many believe Manning has the potential to be the future of Texas football.

The Quarterback Battle: A Tough Decision

As the 2024 season progresses, head coach Steve Sarkisian faces an increasingly difficult decision on who should be Texas’ starting quarterback. Ewers, with his experience and flashes of brilliance, has the advantage in terms of knowledge of the system and overall experience. However, Manning’s immense talent, pedigree, and future potential have many speculating that he might eventually take over the starting role sooner rather than later.

Several factors will influence Sarkisian’s decision. First and foremost is the performance of both quarterbacks on the field. If Ewers continues to show improvement and leads Texas to victories, especially in marquee games, the coaching staff may feel that sticking with him is the best option. However, if Ewers’ struggles persist, particularly with consistency or decision-making, there could be a point where Sarkisian feels it’s time to turn to Manning.

For Manning, the challenge will be to prove that he is ready to handle the pressure of being Texas’ starting quarterback. The freshman will need to demonstrate he can not only execute the game plan but also manage the emotional and mental demands that come with playing in high-stakes games in the Big 12 and beyond. If Manning shows that he can deliver in big moments, it could accelerate his ascension to the starting job.

However, there is also the question of timing. The decision to start Manning too early could backfire if he struggles in his first few starts, potentially hindering his development or confidence. On the other hand, keeping Ewers as the starter could be a short-term solution that limits Manning’s long-term potential. The key for Sarkisian will be to balance the need to win now with the long-term development of his team.

Texas’ Championship Aspirations and the Quarterback Question

While the quarterback battle between Ewers and Manning is important for the program’s future, it is also directly tied to Texas’ aspirations in 2024. With a talented roster that includes a strong offensive line, a solid running game, and an explosive group of wide receivers, Texas has championship potential. However, like most college football teams, Texas’ chances of competing for a Big 12 title and potentially a College Football Playoff berth will hinge on the performance of its quarterback.

Ewers has the experience and knowledge to lead Texas this season, but there’s a sense of urgency for the Longhorns to make a run at a championship. The transition from Ewers to Manning could take time, and the program may not have that luxury in 2024 if they hope to make a deep postseason run.

The presence of Manning, however, provides a tantalizing glimpse of the future. If Sarkisian makes the bold move to hand the reins to the freshman, it could set the stage for Texas to dominate in the coming years. With a quarterback like Manning at the helm, Texas would instantly become a force to be reckoned with in the Big 12 and nationally.

How Sarkisian Can Manage the Transition

One of the most important factors in this decision is how Sarkisian handles the transition, whether it’s Ewers to Manning or vice versa. If Sarkisian chooses to go with Manning, he will need to ensure that the young quarterback has enough support from his teammates to thrive. Manning will need to develop chemistry with his receivers and build confidence in the offensive line’s protection, which is crucial in a high-pressure environment.

On the flip side, if Sarkisian chooses to stick with Ewers, he must ensure that Ewers remains confident and doesn’t feel threatened by the presence of Manning. Ewers has had a mixed tenure at Texas, but he still possesses immense talent. Sarkisian needs to create a system where both quarterbacks feel like they are valuable members of the team, fostering a sense of competition without jeopardizing team unity.

Looking Ahead: Manning Time?

In the end, the quarterback decision comes down to balancing the present and the future. The 2024 season is crucial for Texas, and Sarkisian will need to make the best decision for the team’s chances at a Big 12 title and a potential playoff berth. If Ewers shows enough consistency and leadership, he could maintain the starting job for the rest of the season. But if Manning continues to progress and impress during practices and games, it could soon be “Manning Time” in Austin.

Whether it’s Ewers or Manning leading Texas in 2024, the decision will have a lasting impact on the program’s future. The stakes are high, and the eyes of the college football world will be watching closely as Sarkisian navigates this crucial choice.