Texas Longhorns News

Home

Quizzes

Newsletter

Power Rankings

Texas QB Quinn Ewers Ricardo B. Brazziell/American-Statesman / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

What Quinn Ewers' status could mean for Texas

By Paris McGee Jr. | Last updated Nov 25, 2024 12:14 PM ET

No. 3 Texas might have a little extra pressure on it this week after quarterback Quinn Ewers tweaked his ankle during the Longhorns' 31-14 win against Kentucky on Saturday. The injury forced Texas to lean heavily on its rushing attack and raised questions about Ewers’ readiness for the team’s pivotal matchup against Texas A&M.

With the SEC Championship Game and potentially an appearance in the 12-team College Football Playoff appearance on the line, now is not exactly the time for uncertainty at QB.

"I think he's doing OK," head coach Steve Sarkisian said in a news conference Monday. "He's planning on practicing today, so we'll see how that goes."

This Saturday's clash at Texas A&M (8-3) is the most critical test of the season for Texas (10-1). The longtime rivals have not played each other since 2011, when Texas beat Texas A&M 27-25 in College Station.

Ewers, even at less than full strength, will be essential for the Longhorns’ CFP hopes. Injuries are a factor for the CFP committee, which has penalized teams in the past for losing key players. Without Ewers at his best, Texas’ No. 3 ranking could change, although the Longhorns seem a lock for the expanded playoff, per CBS Sports' Brad Crawford.

If Ewers is unavailable, redshirt freshman Arch Manning would take over as starting QB. The committee will likely analyze how Texas performs under those circumstances, as an underwhelming win or struggles from Manning could prompt a reevaluation of its playoff standing.

The CFP committee has historically placed significant weight on the availability of key players. Last year, when the playoff included only four teams, Florida State was left out despite finishing undefeated and winning the ACC title, as the committee questioned its competitiveness without injured starting quarterback Jordan Travis.

While Texas is not nearly in the same situation, its standing could face more scrutiny if Ewers’ absence or limited availability affects the Longhorns' performance.

Even with a victory over Texas A&M, the Longhorns could risk losing their place high in the rankings if the win feels unconvincing or if Manning struggles. A loss in the SEC Championship Game, particularly without Ewers, could potentially have Texas raising eyebrows on whether they're a two-loss team deserving of a playoff appearance.

To make things worse for Texas and other teams, this scenario could give Alabama — the SEC’s golden child — a chance to slip into the playoffs.

If he plays, a strong showing from Manning could bolster Texas’ narrative as a resilient, playoff-worthy team capable of overcoming adversity.

As Texas approaches its showdown with Texas A&M, the stakes are high. Whether it’s Ewers or Manning at QB, the Longhorns must play well to keep their playoff hopes on track.

Paris McGee Jr.

From Nickelodeon star to NCAA gymnast, Paris McGee Jr. has seamlessly transitioned from the spotlight of acting and competitive gymnastics to the dynamic world of sports journalism. A proud Ohio State alum with a B

More must-reads: