Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian addressed the media on Monday, sharing insights into his team’s preparations for one of the season’s biggest games: the Red River Showdown against the Oklahoma Sooners. The Longhorns, ranked No. 1 with a perfect 5-0 record, are set to face their long-time rivals, who come in at 4-1. Sarkisian emphasized that in matchups like these, records mean little, and anything can happen on game day.
The buzz around Texas’ quarterback situation has only grown louder ahead of the rivalry game. With Quinn Ewers and highly touted freshman Arch Manning both in the mix, many are wondering who will be leading the offense come Saturday.
Sarkisian provided an update on Ewers, who has been working his way back from a minor injury. “He practiced again today. I thought he looked good coming off the bye,” Sarkisian said. “If anybody benefitted from the time off, it was probably him. We’re going to monitor him daily to see how he progresses, but I feel good about where he is right now.”
When asked whether Ewers would play if the game were held today, Sarkisian was cautiously optimistic, stating, “If we had to play, sure. But that’s why it’s important we monitor him daily to ensure he’s fully healthy to perform.”
As the week unfolds, all eyes will be on Ewers’ recovery. While it’s unlikely Arch Manning will get the start, the Longhorns’ depth at quarterback remains a luxury most teams can only dream of.
Despite the uncertainty, Texas heads into the showdown as heavy favorites, with double-digit odds over Oklahoma. Sarkisian and his squad will hope to avenge last year’s loss to the Sooners and continue their march toward a possible Big 12 title and College Football Playoff berth. Regardless of who starts under center, Texas will be aiming to prove they’re the top team in the nation when the whistle blows on Saturday afternoon.
