Texas Longhorns Receive Critical Update on QB Quinn Ewers
The Texas Longhorns’ football program received an encouraging update on Monday regarding their star quarterback, Quinn Ewers. As the team continues its quest for a Big 12 Championship and a potential College Football Playoff berth, Ewers’ status has been a central storyline following his shoulder injury in October. The junior quarterback has been instrumental in the Longhorns’ resurgence under head coach Steve Sarkisian, and his return to full strength comes at a pivotal time.
Ewers’ Recovery Progress
Ewers, who suffered an AC joint sprain in his right shoulder during Texas’ victory over Houston on October 21, has been gradually working his way back. Initially, concerns arose about how long the injury would sideline him, with some speculating that he might miss the remainder of the regular season. However, Ewers has defied those expectations, making a faster-than-anticipated recovery.
Reports from the Longhorns’ camp indicate that Ewers participated fully in practice this week, showing no lingering effects from the injury. His arm strength and accuracy were reportedly on display, a positive sign for a Texas team that has relied heavily on his leadership and playmaking ability. Sarkisian expressed optimism during a recent press conference, stating, “Quinn has worked tirelessly to get back. He’s a competitor, and it’s clear he’s eager to help this team finish the season strong.”
Impact on Texas’ Offense
Ewers’ return couldn’t come at a better time for the Longhorns, who sit at 10-1 and are ranked No. 7 in the latest College Football Playoff rankings. While backup quarterback Maalik Murphy performed admirably in Ewers’ absence, the offense lacked the same rhythm and explosiveness that it has with Ewers at the helm.
Before the injury, Ewers had thrown for 1,915 yards, 13 touchdowns, and just three interceptions, completing 70.5% of his passes. His ability to stretch defenses vertically and his composure in high-pressure situations have been key to Texas’ success. With his return, the Longhorns regain their offensive leader, allowing Sarkisian to fully unleash his dynamic playbook.
Ewers’ connection with top targets such as Xavier Worthy and Adonai Mitchell is expected to reinvigorate a passing game that has been somewhat conservative in recent weeks. Additionally, his presence should open up opportunities for running backs Jonathon Brooks and CJ Baxter, as defenses will need to respect the passing threat.
Implications for the Big 12 Championship
Texas has already secured a spot in the Big 12 Championship Game, set to take place on December 2 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington. Their opponent will likely be determined after this weekend’s games, with Oklahoma State, Oklahoma, and Kansas State all vying for the second spot. Regardless of who they face, having Ewers back under center gives Texas a significant advantage.
A win in the Big 12 title game could vault the Longhorns into the College Football Playoff, especially if one of the top six teams stumbles in the final week of the regular season or during their respective conference championships. For Texas, which hasn’t been part of the CFP since its inception in 2014, this represents a golden opportunity to reestablish itself as a national powerhouse.
Longhorns’ Road Ahead
Ewers’ return also sets the stage for Texas to finish the regular season on a high note when they take on Texas Tech in Austin this Friday. The Red Raiders, sitting at 6-5, will be looking to play spoiler in a rivalry game that has produced its fair share of dramatic moments. Texas Tech’s defense has struggled against high-powered offenses this season, and Ewers’ presence could spell trouble for their secondary.
For Texas, the focus will be on executing cleanly and avoiding any unnecessary risks, particularly with the Big 12 Championship Game looming. Sarkisian emphasized the importance of staying disciplined: “We know what’s at stake, but we can’t look too far ahead. The priority is winning this week and playing our best football.”
National Spotlight on Ewers
Ewers’ return has also reignited discussions about his future. The former five-star recruit has been projected as a potential first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, but the injury briefly cast doubts about his draft stock. With an opportunity to shine in the season’s most crucial games, Ewers could solidify himself as one of the top quarterback prospects.
Scouts will be watching closely to see how Ewers performs under pressure and whether he has fully recovered from the injury. His ability to lead Texas to a conference championship and possibly a playoff berth would only enhance his resum.
Final Thoughts
The return of Quinn Ewers is a game-changer for the Texas Longhorns. As they prepare for the most important stretch of their season, having their star quarterback healthy and ready to go is a massive boost. His leadership, skillset, and poise could be the difference between a successful season and one that cements Texas’ return to the national elite.
With a showdown against Texas Tech and a potential Big 12 title on the horizon, Ewers will have ample opportunities to leave his mark on the 2023 season. For Texas fans, the hope is that this is just the beginning of a memorable postseason run that redefines the program’s trajectory.
