The Texas Longhorns showcased their dominance on Saturday, delivering a 38-24 win over Clemson in the first round of the College Football Playoff. Quarterback Quinn Ewers played his part effectively, completing 17 of 24 passes for 202 yards, one touchdown and an interception. While the team relied heavily on its rushing game to secure victory, questions about Ewers’ NFL future remain at the forefront.
As Texas prepares for a quarterfinal showdown against Arizona State on Jan. 1 at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Ewers faces a critical decision. Should he declare for the NFL draft, return to Texas or transfer to another college program for his final year of eligibility? NFL draft analyst Nick Baumgardner of The Athletic wrote that Ewers’ future might already be decided.
According to Baumgardner, “As for Ewers? He also should have chances to prove himself against top-tier defenses during this Playoff. But he’s in his third season as a starter and his fourth in college.
"He might be as ready as he’s going to be for the next level. ... Another year for Ewers, be it at Texas or elsewhere – doesn’t figure to change much about his draft profile.”
Quinn Ewers shows confidence in the Longhorns
Quinn Ewers is known for maintaining a humble demeanor during interviews, but he occasionally gives a glimpse into his competitive spirit.
After Texas’ decisive victory over Clemson, Ewers expressed his confidence in the team’s legitimacy.
“You know, this is who we are,” Ewers said (Timestamp: 1:53). “We deserve to be here. We have every right to be right where we are and just continue to be present each and every day. Saturday or January 1 will come soon enough.”
When asked about his performance and the team’s upcoming Peach Bowl game against Arizona State, Ewers emphasized the importance of preparation.
“It’s a great feeling, anytime you’re able to get the offense into the correct play call for certain looks,” Ewers explained. “I think it’s just a testament to the coaches giving us those looks in practice and it being kind of easy to see and easy to be able to check.”
Coach Steve Sarkisian praises Jaydon Blue’s 77-yard touchdown run
Texas running back Jaydon Blue made a significant impact during the game, especially with his stunning 77-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. The play extended Texas’ lead to 14 points, solidifying its victory over Clemson.
Sarkisian acknowledged Blue’s challenges earlier in the season.
“To think about that young man, fighting through the ankle injury earlier in the season, having some fumble issues, but continuing to practice well, continuing to be a really good teammate,” Sarkisian said (Timestamp: 1:35).
"I’m sure there was plenty of stuff that people wanted to say to him about not holding on to the ball, but the fact that, between (running backs) coach (Tashard) Choice, myself, our staff, his teammates believed in him, and that he was able to continue to work and improve his game, and then to have a game like this in the Playoff, just really proud of him.”
As the Longhorns gear up for their next challenge, the focus remains on teamwork and resilience. For Ewers, the decision regarding his NFL future looms large, but his performance in the CFP could cement his readiness for the next level.
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