"That's who Quinn Ewers is": Steve Sarkisian takes firm stand for QB1 as Texas fans ask for him to be replaced with Arch Manning
Texas coach Steve Sarkisian has backed Quinn Ewers to continue as his starting quarterback for the remainder of the season. While some Longhorns fans have called for Arch Manning to lead the team's offense, Sarkisian has made his thoughts clear about why Ewers will remain Texas' QB1.
"From where he [Ewers] was in year one to where he is today, to the rapport he has with his teammates, to the mental and physical toughness he exudes, for us I think is one that's admired in the locker room." Sarkisian said to reporters on Thursday.
"I think there wasn't a more fitting play for him than the 4th and 2 last week against Arkansas where we call the zone read with him. He decides to try to run the safety over to get the first down to seal the victory, and I just think that's who Quinn is," he added.
Arch Manning has been Ewers' backup this season but started two games for No. 2 Texas (9-1, 5-1 Southeastern Conference) this season when Ewers was dealing with an injury. He did well and led the team to two wins.
Quinn Ewers has also done exceedingly well, but there were concerns when his performances dropped slightly following his abdominal injury. The Longhorns suffered their only defeat of the season against Georgia when Ewers had just returned from his injury.
Nonetheless, Ewers has completed 169 of 247 passes for 1,898 yards while throwing 12 touchdowns and three interceptions. He has led the team to a 7-1 record as a starter and put Texas on course to reach the College Football Playoff.
Steve Sarkisian's Texas aims to go all the way and win national title this season
Steve Sarkisian's Texas is tipped to go all the way and win the national title this season. The Longhorns are the second-best team in the country, according to the AP Poll heading into their Week 13 matchup against the Kentucky Wildcats.
Texas will play its final regular season game against No.15 Texas A&M Aggies on Nov. 30.
The Longhorns will qualify for the College Football Playoff if they win their two remaining regular season games. Furthermore, with Ewers and Manning as their two quarterback options, the Longhorns could make a deep run in the playoffs, while keeping an eye on the national championship.