One of the biggest storylines in college football right now is the emergence of Texas quarterback Arch Manning.
While we don’t want to get carried away with ourselves, the fact of the matter is Manning has exceeded the sky-high expectations that were set for him so far.
Again, we’re talking about an extremely small sample size. However, it’s crystal-clear that Manning is 100% the real deal.
Of course, the other side of the story is starter Quinn Ewers.
Entering the Longhorns’ matchup against UTSA last week, Ewers was considered the Heisman Trophy favorite. However, the abdomen injury he suffered threw a major curveball at all of us.
As everyone knows, Manning stepped in for the injured Ewers and set the world on fire, scoring five touchdowns while displaying total control of the offense.
With Ewers still banged up, Manning has been named the starter for tomorrow’s clash against UL Monroe.
Needless to say, as we dive deeper into the season, the elephant in the room will be who starts at quarterback when Ewers is back healthy?
Legendary coach Urban Meyer experienced a (somewhat) similar situation back in his Florida days. He spoke about the unique situation on The Triple Option podcast.
Meyer sympathized with Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian’s situation, recalling the similar challenge he faced in Gainesville when fans clamored for Tim Tebow to replace Chris Leak.
“Every time Tim Tebow would walk on the field, the place went berserk,” Meyer remembered. “They actually booed when I put Chris Leak back in. I don’t think Texas is quite there yet, but I understand Arch is the crowd favorite.”
Despite the buzz around Manning, Meyer believes the Longhorns should stick with Ewers once he’s healthy.
“Quinn Ewers is your starter, boys,” Meyer stated. “Until [Manning] beats [Ewers] out. And doing well against Texas-San Antonio? Yeah, that’s a warm-up. That’s a warm-up show.”
Meyer pointed to Ewers’ success on big stages as reason enough for Texas to hold firm.
“Quinn Ewers has beat Alabama at ‘Bama. Quinn Ewers beat the Wolverines badly at Ann Arbor. He’s your starting quarterback. You got to play him. I’d play him. As soon as he comes back I’d play Quinn, and I’d play Arch.”
Only time will tell who the better quarterback ends up being. Having said that, Ewers has earned the right to lead the Longhorns this season. Period.
Even though Manning now has better Heisman odds (+1600) than Ewers (+1800), it would be the shock of all shockers if Sark didn’t put Ewers back under center once he’s healthy.
What are your thoughts on Meyer’s comments?
How do you think the whole Manning/Ewers situation will shake out???