Steve Sarkisian hails Texas QB Quinn Ewers for being the new perfect example for new era of college football

The Texas Longhorns are gearing up for a season-defining matchup versus the Ohio State Buckeyes in the Cotton Bowl. Entering Friday's contest, Texas coach Steve Sarkisian praised his starting quarterback, Quinn Ewers.

Ewers is nearing the conclusion of his third season at Texas, still undecided between returning to college or declaring for the 2025 NFL draft. Sarkisian brought Ewers in following his first season at Texas, and the 2024 All-SEC second-teamer has since posted a 33-9 as the starter.

Leading up to what could be Ewers' final game as a Longhorn, Sarkisian reflected on the quarterback's career thus far.

"I'm very proud of Quinn," Sarkisian told reporters on Friday. "His journey has been unique to him. It's almost like he's the new era of college football. Here's a guy that goes to one school, transfers to another, and ends up playing that school in the semifinal."

Ewers enrolled at Ohio State as the No. 1 recruit in the 2021 recruiting class but transferred following his freshman season. On Friday, he will face his former coach's team in Dallas, Texas.

Quinn Ewers responds to transfer rumors ahead of Texas-Ohio State showdown

Entering Texas' matchup versus the Arizona State Sun Devils in the Peach Bowl, rumblings began of a potential $6 million deal for Quinn Ewers to transfer for his final collegiate season. Ewers was expected to declare for the 2025 NFL draft, but recent reports hint at a potential return for the Texas signal-caller.

On Thursday, Ewers dismissed the idea of discussing his plans.

"First off, I think I'd be doing a disservice to my teammates about me even thinking about what's next," Ewers said. "What's right in front of us isn't over yet. ... That's too selfish of thinking for me to even be thinking about what's next for me."

Ewers could join SEC rival Carson Beck, who announced his commitment to the Miami Hurricanes weeks after declaring for the draft.