After a stellar 13-3 season, the Texas Longhorns’ journey came to a close with a 28-14 loss to the Ohio State Buckeyes in the College Football Playoff semifinal at the Cotton Bowl. While the defeat marked the end of their championship aspirations, head coach Steve Sarkisian took the opportunity to reflect on the contributions of quarterback Quinn Ewers, whose leadership and performance consistently placed him ahead of rising star Arch Manning.
Sarkisian’s High Praise for Ewers
In a heartfelt message during an interview with On Texas Football, Sarkisian commended Ewers’ ability to overcome adversity and thrive under immense expectations.
“I’m super proud of Quinn,” Sarkisian stated. “He’s taught me a lot, probably without even realizing it. He faced injuries, external pressures, and the constant weight of expectations that were almost impossible to meet. But all he ever did was show up, work hard, and lead this team with heart and determination.”
Sarkisian emphasized that Ewers’ dedication and perseverance were instrumental in Texas’ success over the past two seasons. “Quinn set the standard,” he added. “His leadership is what brought us here, and it’s why he consistently earned his place on the field.”
A Standout Performance
In the Cotton Bowl, Ewers showcased his talent and poise, completing 23 of 39 pass attempts for 283 yards and two touchdowns. Despite his strong efforts, the Buckeyes’ defense, anchored by standout Jack Sawyer, proved insurmountable in critical moments.
Ewers’ overall performance during the 2024 season solidified his reputation as one of college football’s top quarterbacks. He tallied 31 touchdowns, 3,472 passing yards, and a 66.5% completion rate, leading the Longhorns to their second consecutive playoff appearance.
Eyes on the NFL
Though Ewers has not officially declared his plans for 2025, his demeanor and remarks suggest that his time with the Longhorns has likely come to an end. Considered a potential first-round pick, Ewers is expected to focus on preparations for the NFL Draft, where his skill set and leadership qualities make him a highly coveted prospect.
If this is indeed his farewell, Ewers leaves behind a lasting legacy at Texas. He transformed the Longhorns into a consistent playoff contender, elevating the program back to national prominence.
What’s Next for Texas?
For Sarkisian and the Longhorns, the departure of Ewers signals a new chapter. With Arch Manning waiting in the wings, the team will focus on building upon its recent successes while addressing weaknesses exposed in the Cotton Bowl. Manning, despite his immense potential, will have big shoes to fill as he steps into the role vacated by Ewers.
Sarkisian expressed optimism about the future while acknowledging the significance of Ewers’ impact. “Quinn set the bar high for everyone who follows. His legacy will inspire this program for years to come,” he said.
As the Longhorns regroup and prepare for the 2025 season, the lessons and leadership of Quinn Ewers will remain a cornerstone of their journey forward.