Quinn Ewers Remains Texas’ Starter Despite Arch Manning Cameo in Loss to Georgia

Toward the end of the first half, with Texas trailing 20-0 and Quinn Ewers struggling, having turned the ball over twice, Steve Sarkisian made the bold decision to bring in Arch Manning for the final two series. Manning had shown promise when stepping in for an injured Ewers earlier in the season, but Ewers remains a likely first-round NFL draft pick. Sarkisian explained that the move was more about helping Ewers regain composure rather than indicating a shift in the quarterback pecking order. Despite Manning playing well, Texas didn’t score with him under center.

Ewers returned in the second half, completing 25 of 43 passes for 211 yards, and two touchdowns, but also threw an interception and lost a fumble. Meanwhile, Manning finished 3-for-6 for 32 yards. Texas ultimately lost to No. 5 Georgia, 30-15. After the game, Sarkisian shut down any rumors of a quarterback controversy, reiterating that “Quinn’s our starting quarterback,” while acknowledging Manning’s ability to step in if needed. Sarkisian emphasized the importance of settling Ewers down and giving the offense a chance to regroup, though Texas was unable to overcome Georgia’s dominant performance.