Steve Sarkisian has left the possibility open for Quinn Ewers to start against Mississippi State.

As the Texas Longhorns prepare for their upcoming matchup against Mississippi State, head coach Steve Sarkisian has made it clear that the starting quarterback role is still open for competition, leaving the door ajar for Quinn Ewers to start. The decision has sparked intrigue and speculation, especially given Ewers’ status as one of the top quarterback prospects and his performance so far this season. While Sarkisian has yet to confirm his starter for the game, this uncertainty has placed significant focus on how Ewers might fit into the team’s plans for the game against the Bulldogs.

Ewers’ Performance and Health Concerns

Quinn Ewers’ journey this season has been filled with highs and lows. The highly touted quarterback, who transferred to Texas from Ohio State, had shown flashes of brilliance in his early performances but also faced criticism for his inconsistency at times. Early in the season, Ewers was expected to be the centerpiece of the Longhorns’ offense, but as the season progressed, there were signs that he was still adjusting to the pressures of leading such a prestigious program.

The uncertainty about Ewers’ role against Mississippi State largely stems from his health status. Ewers had suffered a shoulder injury earlier in the season, which raised concerns about his ability to perform at the highest level. While the injury itself wasn’t a major setback, the question of whether he would be physically ready to return to the starting role has been a focal point in the lead-up to the Mississippi State game.

Sarkisian has been careful not to rush Ewers back into action before he’s fully prepared, but he has also acknowledged the potential for the young quarterback to return and make an impact. The decision, therefore, hinges on whether Ewers has had enough time to recover and whether he is at full strength heading into this crucial SEC matchup.

Sarkisian’s Confidence in Multiple Quarterbacks

Steve Sarkisian has repeatedly emphasized his belief in having depth at the quarterback position, and that philosophy could play a key role in his decision. With Hudson Card having stepped in and played well in Ewers’ absence, the Longhorns are fortunate to have multiple quarterbacks who can get the job done. Sarkisian’s approach has been to keep the competition healthy and foster a sense of trust in all his quarterbacks.

While Ewers remains the favorite to lead the team due to his immense talent and pedigree, Card’s performance has shown that the Longhorns are not entirely reliant on one player to dictate the success of the offense. This has left fans and analysts wondering whether Sarkisian will opt for the experienced Card or give Ewers another chance to prove himself.

The Importance of the Mississippi State Game

The matchup against Mississippi State is important for the Longhorns, who are aiming to stay competitive in the SEC and maintain their momentum in the season. Sarkisian’s decision will have a significant impact on the team’s performance, and choosing the right quarterback is crucial. Mississippi State has proven to be a formidable opponent under head coach Mike Leach, and a well-coached, disciplined approach is needed to take down the Bulldogs.

With so much at stake, Sarkisian’s decision to keep his quarterback options open makes sense. There is no room for error in the SEC, and whether Ewers or Card gets the nod, both players will need to be ready for a tough challenge. Sarkisian’s ability to keep the competition healthy while allowing for flexibility could be a key factor in the Longhorns’ success moving forward.

Looking Ahead

As the game day approaches, the Texas Longhorns and their fanbase will be eagerly awaiting Steve Sarkisian’s final decision on who will start against Mississippi State. While Quinn Ewers remains a highly touted prospect, his health and consistency are central to his potential return to the starting role. However, with a strong supporting cast and capable backup options like Hudson Card, Sarkisian is keeping his options open and ensuring that the team is prepared for any situation. Regardless of who takes the field, the Longhorns will need all hands on deck to face the challenges that lie ahead.