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| Arch Manning Ready to Step Up |
Texas QB Quinn Ewers Questionable for Louisiana-Monroe Game: Arch Manning Ready to Step Up
Texas Longhorns starting quarterback Quinn Ewers is listed as questionable for this weekend’s matchup against Louisiana-Monroe after suffering an oblique strain during last Saturday’s 56-7 win over UTSA, head coach Steve Sarkisian announced on Monday.
Ewers’ Injury: Non-Contact and Unexpected
Ewers sustained the injury in the second quarter while making a 49-yard completion to tight end Gunnar Helm. Though initially staying in for one more play, the discomfort forced him to leave the game shortly after. The injury occurred without contact, as Ewers felt pain during the throw.
Sarkisian commented, “He thought it was going to go away, but realized he needed to get it looked at."
This marks the third consecutive season Ewers has dealt with injuries. He previously missed three games in 2022 due to a clavicle injury and two games with an AC joint sprain last season.
Arch Manning Ready to Make His First Start
If Ewers is unable to play, redshirt freshman Arch Manning will step in as the starter. Manning impressed last weekend, throwing four touchdown passes and rushing for another in relief of Ewers. He finished the game 9-for-12 for 223 yards, showcasing poise and strong decision-making.
Sarkisian praised Manning, saying, “He played at a high level... there were learning curves, but overall, he handled the situation well.”
Manning, the nephew of NFL legend Peyton Manning, will take the majority of first-team practice reps this week as Texas prepares for the possibility of Ewers being sidelined.
Texas’ Game Plan Without Ewers
Sarkisian remains hopeful about Ewers’ recovery, but the team will be ready either way. Manning will get increased practice time with the first team, and true freshman Trey Owens will move up to serve as the backup quarterback if needed.
Despite his injury, Sarkisian is confident that Ewers will stay dialed in and return at a high level once he’s cleared.
“He’s diligent with his recovery, and when he comes back, he performs at a high level,” Sarkisian noted.
What’s Next for Texas?
With the Longhorns off to a strong start this season, the quarterback situation will be closely watched as the team prepares to face Louisiana-Monroe. Ewers has been playing some of the best football of his career, completing 73.4% of his passes this season and throwing for 691 yards, eight touchdowns, and two interceptions. His absence could shake up the Longhorns' offensive game plan, but Manning’s strong performance last weekend gives fans reason for optimism.
Stay tuned as we monitor the status of Quinn Ewers and the Longhorns ahead of Saturday’s game.