College football fans are gearing up for the championship battles, and this season's excitement is palpable. Notably, Australia's own Joe McGuire has earned his place among the contenders, setting the stage for intense games between some of the best teams.
On the other side of the competition, the Texas Longhorns faced off against the Ohio State Buckeyes at the Cotton Bowl, showcasing the high stakes involved for both squads. Ranked No. 5, Texas had their work cut out for them against No. 8 Ohio State, who came out swinging. The Longhorns couldn’t find their rhythm early, and their first four offensive drives stalled, resulting in turnovers on downs and three punting attempts. Meanwhile, Ohio State struck first, with Quinshon Judkins charging down the field to give the Buckeyes a quick lead, making it 7-0.
Quarterback Quinn Ewers struggled to establish his offensive game and faced significant pressure, getting sacked multiple times. His lack of traction led some fans and analysts to voice their frustrations on social media, clamoring for backup quarterback Arch Manning to take the helm. "Put Arch Manning in. Quinn Ewers is not it," read one tweet, reflecting growing discontent among the Texas crowd and fans. This sentiment isn’t new for Ewers, who has faced calls for Manning to step up during previous games, including the quarterfinal match against Arizona State earlier this season. Still, it was Ewers who managed to keep the Longhorns’ hopes alive then, and this time might be no different.
Ari Wasserman of On3 reported on X, noting the buzz around Manning potentially coming onto the field for Texas's fourth drive, but Ewers remained under center. "Looks like Arch Manning could be coming up for this drive," he shared. Throughout the first quarter, Ewers completed 7 of 12 passes for 83 yards—a decent start, yet below expectations for fans hoping to see him lead the team to victory.
The call for Manning's inclusion arises partly from his dynamic playing style. Unlike Ewers, who tends to stay within the pocket, Manning has had impressive moments showcasing his ability to escape pressure and make plays with his legs. This could have been pivotal, especially as the Longhorns aimed to regain momentum following their rocky start.
Despite the struggles, the Longhorns remain determined. Coach Steve Sarkisian's decision on whether to keep Ewers or switch to Manning could very well determine Texas's championship fate. If Ewers continues to falter under pressure, the growing outcry for Manning may reach deafening levels. He's inexperienced with only two career starts, but the momentum building around his potential as the team’s savior is undeniable.
The stakes have never been higher. With champions on the line, every play counts, and both Texas and Ohio State aim to prove themselves worthy of the championship title. Fans are not just spectators; they are invested, feeling every moment of tension on the field. The narrative is rich with hopes, expectations, and the ever-present specter of doubt, all underscoring the sheer intensity of college football.
Throughout this season, teams have battled hard and showcased remarkable talent, but the championship picture is still forming, and surprises are expected. Will Ewers rise to the occasion, or will the call for Manning change the course of Texas's dreams? One thing is certain: With players like McGuire and the Longhorns firing up their engines, college football's championship series is poised for explosive action.