Teenager Arch Manning has been making noise in all the right corners for the No.3 Texas Longhorns (10-1, 6-1, SEC). College football analyst J.D. Pickell has made a compelling case for integrating the QB into the offense for their critical matchup against the No.20 Texas A&M Aggies (8-3, 5-2, SEC).
Quinn Ewers has been struggling to find his rhythm, and his mobility is limited due to an ankle injury. Hence, Pickell believes it’s time for Steve Sarkisian to “empty the clip” and add Manning’s skill set to the playbook.
"I’m not saying bench Ewers," PicKell emphasized on On3, "but give Arch a role—design quarterback runs, read options, and even a few passing plays. It’s about adding another layer to the offense and unlocking Texas’ full potential.”
“It's not time to go home with plays in the playbook or bullets in the chamber like you empty the clip and I think emptying the clip is getting Arch in the football game…” [48:23]
Manning’s mobility and fresh legs could be the spark the Longhorns need, especially in moments like third-and-short situations.
While Ewers boasts invaluable experience, including leading the team to a Big 12 title, his recent performances have left room for doubt. Manning's involvement could offer Texas a tactical edge even in a limited package.
Steve Sarkisian provides Quinn Ewers update amidst Arch Manning calls to play against Aggies
Texas coach shared an update on Ewers after he was injured during a hip-drop tackle in the week 13 win over the Kentucky Wildcats. The Longhorns QB1 is expected to practice this week, though Sarkisian is taking a cautious approach.
“I think he’s doing okay. Our schedule is a little bit different. We’re normally a morning practice team, but with this being Thanksgiving week and no school, we’re not practicing until this afternoon. I’ll have a better understanding when I get to see him really on the field, but he’s planning on practicing today...,” Sarkisian said (via MSN).
Ewers looked like his usual self before heading out of the game because of an ankle sprain. Before exiting, Ewers had completed 20 of 31 passes for 191 yards and two touchdowns.
“Quinn, on kind of a scramble up the middle, he gotten — I guess you could call it the hip drop tackle as they refer to it in the NFL,” informed Sarkisian on Quinn’s injury.
Calls to play freshman quarterback have intensified, given Ewers’ shaky form and injury. Texas is preparing for a rivalry matchup against No. 15 Texas A&M. For the season, Ewers has amassed 2,089 passing yards and 23 touchdowns, in contrast to Arch Manning's 939 yards and nine touchdowns. The Longhorns will face the Aggies on Saturday at 6:30 p.m., with the game airing on ABC.
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