Booger McFarland, Dan Orlovksy react to Texas benching Quinn Ewers for Arch Manning

Trailing big against Georgia at home, Texas made the decision to bench quarterback Quinn Ewers in favor of Arch Manning. The Longhorns trail the Bulldogs by a score of 23-0 at halftime but are hopeful the switch can give their offense life in the second half.

Ewers struggled early in his second game back from injury, going 6-of-12 for just 17 yards while committing two turnovers. ESPN analyst Booger McFarland said at halftime that the quarterback change will open things up for Texas, citing Manning’s mobility compared to that of Ewers.

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“They’re whooping Texas up front right now,” McFarland said. “To the quarterback question, Quinn Ewers or Arch Manning? I think Arch brings an athletic element where he at least can protect himself when the offense breaks down.”

Manning entered the game late in the second quarter and already showed off his rushing ability with a 21-yard run. He finished the first half 3-of-6 passing for 19 yards.

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Manning started two games already this season when Ewers was injured, leading the team to victory in both. He has thrown for 902 yards and nine touchdowns to two interceptions in addition to 82 yards rushing and three scores on the ground.

Fellow ESPN analyst Dan Orlovsky agreed with McFarland, adding that there is not as much pressure on Manning with the team already down big.

“I don’t think it’s even a question, it’s Arch Manning,: he said. “To your point, the athleticism. Also, when you get into this situation and you’re a little bit of an inexperienced young quarterback, you’re not gonna be the reason a team loses. It’s 23-0. But, you can be the reason the team wins. So there’s a free to your style of play.

“You’ve gotta go attack. Now, Sark’s gotta help him a little bit. They’ve got to get into a rhythm on offense a little bit. That’s gonna be the biggest thing, but it’s Arch Manning for me.”

The outcome of this game will be big in the SEC race as the Longhorns currently sit atop the conference standings with an undefeated league record. Georgia already has one loss in SEC play but would tie Texas with a win here and also own the head-to-head tiebreaker.

Ultimately, the Longhorns surprised by bringing Ewers back out to start the second half. We’ll see whether he can turn things around and lead them to a comeback.