It’s likely not the start of a new era at the University of Texas.
But it is the admission that quarterback Quinn Ewers cannot go. At least, not this week.
Arch Manning will replace Ewers on Saturday for the first time as the Longhorns’ starter, in their game against Louisiana-Monroe, ESPN and several media outlets are reporting – and now we join that chorus.
Ewers has an oblique injury, and Texas coach Steve Sarkisian confirmed Thursday that Manning – the son of Cooper Manning, the nephew of Peyton and Eli, the grandson of Archie – will, in fact, get his first start as Longhorns’ signal-caller this weekend.
Ewers gave it a go, but it’s just not happening, Sark said.
“Quinn has made great strides ever since Saturday night into where he’s gotten to,” the coach said. “But my decision is I’m looking forward to his future as a player, but also the future of the season for us. … And getting him possibly one more week healthier for the long term, I think, is good for us as we’re getting ready for SEC play.”
Manning came into the Texas-San Antonio game last week following Ewers’ injury and helped lead the team to a 56-7 win. He had a part in five touchdowns, including a 67-yard touchdown run, putting him in the Texas record books as the longest ever by a freshman. He also threw for one, a 75-yarder to Ryan Wingo.
Don’t expect Ewers to be in the athletic dorm, or sitting it out, Sark noted.
“Quinn will obviously have an earpiece in. He’ll hear every play call,” Sarkisian said. “Without question, his support of Arch is critical, and I don’t foresee anything different than that.”
