Steve Sarkisian Impresses with In-Game Call, Showcasing Quinn Ewers and Arch Manning
In a dramatic moment during Texas’ recent game, head coach Steve Sarkisian stole the spotlight with an in-game call that had fans buzzing and analysts taking note. The Texas Longhorns, who were facing a tough opponent, were dealt an unexpected twist when Sarkisian made a bold move by rotating both star quarterbacks, Quinn Ewers and freshman sensation Arch Manning, into critical situations. It wasn’t just the decision to switch quarterbacks that turned heads—it was the way the two quarterbacks were utilized, which demonstrated Sarkisian’s mastery of the game and his confidence in both players.
Sarkisian, known for his offensive brilliance, has always been keen on using his quarterbacks effectively. But the way he handled the in-game situation with Ewers and Manning raised eyebrows and earned praise from those watching, including ESPN’s Jesse Palmer, a former quarterback himself, who was quick to highlight the depth and versatility Texas now possesses at the quarterback position.
The Quarterback Rotation Strategy
The Texas Longhorns have a unique and enviable situation in 2025, with two top-tier quarterbacks vying for playing time. Quinn Ewers, the junior signal-caller, has shown flashes of brilliance since arriving in Austin, and his arm strength, accuracy, and leadership have made him a highly regarded prospect for the NFL. On the other hand, Arch Manning, the highly touted freshman who comes from a legendary football family, has quickly impressed during practices and has shown great promise as a future star.
When the game began to take a pivotal turn, Sarkisian pulled off what appeared to be a calculated decision—rotating Ewers and Manning in crucial moments. Ewers, the starter, took charge in the first half, displaying his veteran presence and strong arm. But in the second half, with the game still hanging in the balance, Sarkisian inserted Manning for a series of plays, allowing him to showcase his talent in high-pressure situations.
Manning didn’t shy away from the opportunity. The young quarterback, who was thrust into a high-stakes moment early in his career, delivered a series of impressive throws that showed he was not intimidated by the moment. His poise, combined with his natural ability, quickly became evident. He also demonstrated his mobility, evading pressure and extending plays with his legs—a skill that is crucial in today’s fast-paced college football game.
Jesse Palmer’s Reaction
The in-game call from Sarkisian quickly caught the attention of Jesse Palmer, who was covering the game as part of ESPN’s broadcast team. Palmer, who knows a thing or two about quarterback play as a former NFL signal-caller, was vocal in his praise for Sarkisian’s ability to handle the situation with two quarterbacks so effectively.
Palmer said, “What Steve Sarkisian is doing right now is really impressive. Most coaches would be hesitant to rotate quarterbacks in such a high-stakes moment, but Sark has full trust in both Ewers and Manning. That’s a huge confidence boost for the players and the team, knowing they have two quarterbacks who can step up and execute in big moments.”
Palmer also noted that Sarkisian’s decision to rotate the quarterbacks wasn’t about creating controversy—it was about utilizing each player’s strengths in the right spots. He observed how Ewers’ deep ball accuracy and experience complemented Manning’s ability to be elusive and create big plays with his legs.
The Growing Confidence in Texas’ QB Room
Sarkisian’s decision to involve both quarterbacks in the game is indicative of a larger trend in college football: the evolution of the quarterback position as a vital, multi-dimensional weapon. Texas, with its wealth of talent at the quarterback position, is now in a position to have the best of both worlds: a seasoned veteran in Ewers and a highly skilled, dynamic freshman in Manning. The Longhorns’ ability to play both in such critical spots signals confidence in their depth and their future.
This maneuver also highlights Sarkisian’s broader offensive strategy—he is not content to rely on one player, but instead, he’s creating an offense that can adapt to various situations. Whether it’s Ewers’ arm strength or Manning’s poise under pressure, Sarkisian has a flexible, dual-threat quarterback room that few other teams can boast.
The Long-Term Impact
Sarkisian’s quarterback rotation will likely have long-term ramifications for Texas. It keeps both Ewers and Manning engaged, while also providing invaluable experience for the freshman. Moreover, it sends a strong message to the rest of the college football world that Texas is not only serious about competing at the highest level but is also ready to do so with a cutting-edge approach to managing its quarterback situation.
As for Jesse Palmer’s endorsement of Sarkisian’s decision, it underscores the growing recognition of Texas’ potential under Sarkisian’s leadership. The Longhorns are poised to remain a formidable force in college football, and with players like Ewers and Manning, the future looks exceptionally bright for Texas.
Sarkisian’s calculated decision to rotate quarterbacks during this game is a testament to his strategic acumen, and it’s clear that Texas, under his leadership, is on the path to sustained success. As the season progresses, more teams will likely take note of how effective this dual-quarterback system can be, especially when managed with such finesse.
