Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers’ oblique strain is less severe than initially thought, and his return to play is considered week-to-week, according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel. It’s likely Ewers will miss the No. 1 Longhorns’ upcoming game against UL Monroe on Saturday, which could give redshirt freshman Arch Manning the chance to make his first career start for Texas.
Ewers sustained the injury during the second quarter of Texas’ 56-7 victory over UTSA and did not return to the field. Manning stepped in, amassing 223 passing yards, 53 rushing yards, and five total touchdowns across nine drives.
While there is no specific timeline for Ewers’ return, optimism remains after consultations with doctors. Texas will begin SEC play at home against Mississippi State on September 28, followed by a bye week before facing No. 15 Oklahoma in the Red River Rivalry on October 12 and No. 2 Georgia on October 19.
Texas ascended to the No. 1 spot in the AP poll on Sunday after Georgia’s narrow 13-12 win over Kentucky, marking the first time the Longhorns have held the top ranking since 2008.