Texas Longhorns Coach Steve Sarkisian Uncertain about Starting Quarterback for SEC Debut
Texas Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian is facing a crucial decision as his team prepares for their SEC debut against Mississippi State. The No. 1 Longhorns are still undecided on who will start at quarterback for the upcoming game. Quinn Ewers, the expected starter, is listed as questionable on the team’s injury report due to an oblique strain. In his absence, Arch Manning took the reins in Texas’ recent dominant victory over UL Monroe, throwing for 258 yards and two touchdowns in his first career start.
Sarkisian addressed the quarterback situation, stating that the team will make a decision on the starter the day before the game. He emphasized transparency, noting that they are not trying to keep the decision a secret and are giving Ewers every opportunity to prove his readiness. Despite Ewers’ injury, Sarkisian expressed optimism about his progress in practice throughout the week. Additionally, third-string quarterback Trey Owens, a true freshman, has shown improvement and impressed the coaching staff with his performance in practice.
Challenges and Preparation for Mississippi State
As Texas prepares to face Mississippi State, they are presented with the challenge of preparing for a new quarterback on the opposing team. Mississippi State will be starting true freshman Michael Van Buren Jr. after their starting quarterback, Blake Shapen, suffered a season-ending shoulder injury. Van Buren, a highly touted prospect, showed promise in his limited action against Florida, adding a layer of unpredictability for the Longhorns.
Sarkisian acknowledged the difficulty of facing a quarterback with limited film available for scouting. He highlighted the coaching prowess of Jeff Lebby, Mississippi State’s first-year head coach and former offensive coordinator at Oklahoma. Sarkisian recalled Lebby’s success in orchestrating a game-winning drive against Texas in the past and emphasized the need for his team to disrupt Van Buren’s rhythm and force him out of his comfort zone.
Impressions and Progress in Practice
Throughout the week, Sarkisian closely monitored Ewers’ recovery and performance in practice. While Ewers showed positive signs during drills, Sarkisian emphasized the importance of evaluating his overall readiness for game action. Manning’s strong showing in his starting debut against UL Monroe added to the complexity of the decision-making process, as the coaching staff weighs the potential impact of each quarterback on the team’s success.
In addition to the quarterback situation, Sarkisian highlighted the progress of Trey Owens, the young quarterback who has shown improvement in practice. Owens’ development provides depth and versatility at the position, giving the Longhorns options as they navigate through the challenges of the upcoming SEC matchup.
Overall, the uncertainty surrounding the starting quarterback position adds an element of intrigue to Texas’ first SEC game of the season. As the team continues to prepare for Mississippi State, Sarkisian and his coaching staff will carefully evaluate their options and make a decision that they believe will give the Longhorns the best chance for success in their inaugural SEC contest.
