CFB insider offers insight on Steve Sarkisian’s gameplan for Arch Manning-Quinn Ewers ahead of CFP

Texas Longhorns coach Steve Sarkisian is preparing his team for a crucial matchup against No. 12 Clemson in the first round of the College Football Playoff this Saturday. While gearing up for this monumental game, Sarkisian is also navigating the challenges of the transfer portal.

One of the biggest questions surrounding the program is the future of quarterbacks Quinn Ewers and Arch Manning. Sarkisian’s decision on who will start in the playoffs has become a hot topic, especially after Texas’ second loss to Georgia in the SEC Championship Game. Ewers struggled in that 16-13 defeat, making critical mistakes that shifted attention to Manning.

As Texas (11-2) heads into the playoffs, all eyes are on Sarkisian to make the call that could define their season.

Steve Sarkisian’s gameplan

CFB insider Bruce Feldman shared his perspective on the quarterback situation during the "The Rich Eisen Show" on Thursday. Feldman emphasized that the decision isn’t about who’s the flashiest player but who gives the team the best chance to win.

“Sark is around them all the time,” Feldman said, adding, “I mean, to me, this isn’t about who’s the most dynamic dual-threat QB. It’s about who gives us the best chance to win.”

Feldman noted that both quarterbacks have had moments of brilliance. He pointed out that Ewers has demonstrated poise at times, while Manning showed promise, particularly in his performance against Texas A&M.

When discussing Ewers’ mindset amid rumors about his potential transfer, Feldman said:

“I think Ewers is thinking, ‘I am going to play really well, and I am going to play the ball to my really talented and skilled guys, and I am going to lead the team in this national title. Whatever happens, happens. People say that if I will be a first-round pick or not."

The focus for Sarkisian and the Longhorns, Feldman suggests, will be on identifying the quarterback who can handle the pressure and lead the team to success on college football’s biggest stage.

Texas versus Clemson in College Football Playoff

The No. 5-seed Texas Longhorns (11-2, 7-1 SEC) will host the 12-seed Clemson Tigers (10-3, 7-1 ACC) at Darrell K. Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin this Saturday. This marks the first-ever home game in the College Football Playoff, as the newly expanded 12-team format adds more excitement to the postseason.

Sarkisian spoke about what makes his team a contender for the national title. According to Inside Texas, he said:

“I think we can do a lot of things well. We can lean into different aspects of our team for what's needed to win whatever style of game that we're presented with.

"I think our depth is another huge factor in us being successful. We can withstand injuries when guys get knocked out in games or for an extended period of time, and we can continue to perform at a high level,” Sarkisian added.

Texas’ balanced roster and depth have been critical to their success this season, and they will need every advantage to get past Clemson. This high-stakes matchup will determine which team advances in the race for the national title.

Game Details:

Date: Saturday, Dec. 21

Time: 4 p.m. ET

Venue: Darrell K. Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, Austin, TX

How to Watch: TNT

Streaming: Fubo TV and MAX

Texas Record: 11-2

Clemson Record: 10-3