The Texas Longhorns are riding high after quarterback Quinn Ewers delivered a standout performance in the College Football Playoff (CFP) quarterfinals. With a Pro Football Focus (PFF) grade of 74.7, Ewers was named the highest-graded quarterback of the round, showcasing his poise, accuracy, and leadership under the bright postseason lights.
Leading Texas to Victory
Ewers orchestrated a masterful game, completing 23 of 34 passes for 289 yards and two touchdowns. Facing a tough defense, the sophomore signal-caller maintained his composure, delivering pinpoint throws and making critical decisions when it mattered most.
His ability to exploit mismatches and push the ball downfield was on full display, with several of his completions going for 20 or more yards. Ewers’ deep ball accuracy proved pivotal, as he connected with wide receiver Xavier Worthy for a 45-yard touchdown that swung momentum firmly in Texas’ favor.
Head coach Steve Sarkisian lauded Ewers’ performance, saying, “Quinn was outstanding. He’s grown so much this season, and tonight he showed why he’s one of the best quarterbacks in the country. His leadership and ability to execute under pressure were the difference-makers.”
A Season of Growth
Ewers’ rise as a top quarterback has been one of the most compelling storylines of Texas’ season. After transferring from Ohio State, Ewers found his footing in Austin, steadily improving with each game. His performance in the quarterfinals marked the culmination of months of hard work, film study, and adapting to Sarkisian’s offense.
While his 74.7 grade reflects his individual brilliance, it also highlights his ability to elevate those around him. Ewers’ chemistry with his receivers, coupled with his ability to read defenses, has made Texas’ offense one of the most explosive in college football.
Balancing Pressure and Precision
What makes Ewers’ quarterfinal performance particularly impressive is the context. Playing in a high-stakes CFP environment, the pressure to perform was immense. Ewers handled the moment with maturity, balancing aggressive playmaking with careful decision-making.
His lone blemish—a tipped interception in the second quarter—didn’t faze him. Instead, he responded by leading Texas on a 75-yard touchdown drive, capping it off with a perfectly placed throw to tight end Ja’Tavion Sanders. This resilience underlines Ewers’ growth as a leader and competitor.
Looking Ahead
As Texas prepares for its CFP semifinal matchup, Ewers will undoubtedly remain the centerpiece of the Longhorns’ game plan. His ability to execute in high-pressure situations gives Texas a legitimate shot at securing a national championship.
Fans and analysts alike have taken notice of Ewers’ development, with many projecting him as a future NFL star. For now, however, his focus remains on finishing the season strong and delivering Texas its first national title since 2005.
“I’m just trying to do my job and help this team win,” Ewers said after the game. “We’ve got something special here, and I’m grateful to be a part of it. The job’s not finished yet.”
With his record-setting performance in the quarterfinals, Quinn Ewers has solidified himself as one of the brightest talents in college football and a key player to watch as the CFP unfolds.
