DALLAS — Quarterback Quinn Ewers returned to the field with a bang in a highly anticipated clash with fans and media buzzing for weeks, leading the Texas Longhorns to a resounding 34-3 victory against the SEC rival Oklahoma Sooners in the storied Red River Rivalry. With pressure mounting on him after a recent return from injury, expectations were high for the Longhorns quarterback. However, Ewers proved he could handle the heat, showing poise and confidence as the game unfolded.
“It was a great feeling to get back out there and contribute to the team,” Ewers said after the game. “I felt a lot of pressure, but I just focused on doing my job and trusting my teammates. This win is really special.”
Many doubted Ewers’ ability to bounce back after facing a significant injury, but those fears were quickly dispelled. Viewers remembered his dominant performance in the previous season, where he displayed calm and composed decision-making against a tough Michigan defense in Ann Arbor. It was that same demeanor that Ewers showcased again against Oklahoma.
He threw an interception in the first quarter and appeared to struggle to find his comfort zone.
The Longhorns struggled to find their rhythm in the first quarter, but Ewers started showing glimpses of his former self in the second quarter. As the Longhorns began to assert their dominance, Ewers’ confidence grew. By the time the second half rolled around, Texas had built a comfortable lead of 28-3, and Ewers appeared unfazed by the bright lights and enthusiasm of the rivalry.
“Once we got things rolling, I just tried to maintain my focus,” Ewers said. “I knew we had the ability to push forward, and I trusted that we’d get the plays we needed.”
Ewers had completed 20 of his 29 passes for 199 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. While the interception was a blemish on the stat line, it did little to detract from his impressive overall performance. His ability to consistently connect with his receivers and manage the game effectively was a critical factor in the Longhorns’ dominate win over Oklahoma.
Head coach Steve Sarkisian praised Ewers after the game, saying, “Quinn did exactly what we needed him to do. He stepped up under pressure and managed the game with poise. This was a crucial game for us, and he delivered.“
As Ewers continues to grow and develop as a leader for Texas, his performance against Oklahoma is a testament to his resilience and skill. The Longhorns are poised to make a serious run this season, and if Ewers can maintain this level of play, Texas fans have plenty of reasons to be optimistic.
With the victory, Texas has taken a significant step toward solidifying its place in college football this season as the number one and best team and bragging rights in one of the sport’s most-watched rivalries. As Ewers and the Longhorns look ahead, they will carry the momentum from this pivotal win, fueled by the confidence from a standout performance in a game that will be remembered for ages.
