Hudson Card is 'doing great' after Quinn Ewers' return

Hudson Card’s time as Texas’ starter came to an end last weekend in the Red River Showdown. After taking over for Quinn Ewers after his against Alabama, Card took over as QB1 for three weeks. He returned to his reserve role, though, as Ewers was healthy enough to come back against Oklahoma. Still, that hasn’t changed Card’s mindset or approach now that he has returned to the sideline.

Steve Sarkisian discussed Card’s mindset during media on Thursday. He said his backup would’ve seen more time against the Sooners had he not had injuries of his own to deal with but that Card continues to prepare for each game like a professional who wants to be ready to go.

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“Hudson’s doing great. He’s probably more healthy now than he’s been in a month, which is great. I wanted to play him a little bit more last week but he just wasn’t healthy enough. It wasn’t worth risking that injury getting any worse. But I definitely think he understand the value in his preparation,” said Sarkisian. “You don’t get put in the second quarter against Alabama and not think that that can happen at any moment, any time, and then go start games after that. Hudson is a pro that way.”

Card led Texas to a 2-1 record in his time as the starter. He nearly led the Longhorns to an upset over Alabama when he came in after Ewers sprained his clavicle. In total, Card completed 68.3% of his passes for 899 yards and six touchdowns in his opportunity.

That level of preparedness as a reserve followed by that level of production has earned Card all kinds of respect in Austin according to Sarkisian. It has created the kind of trust in him that gives Sarkisian no worries about giving him another chance if another opportunity arises.

“(Hudson) gives everything he has in this program. He’s a selfless guy, a great teammate, a great leader. A lot of respect for him in our building from coaches, players, and staff for what he did before he got in the game, for what he did while he played, and what he does now,” Sarkisian said. “He prepares like he’s a starting quarterback. I have no hesitation, if he got put in the game, for him to go operate our offense and do it at a really high level…He’s prepared. He’ll be ready to go when his number is called.”

Sarkisian preached over and over about Card’s importance this season. Even though he didn’t win Texas’ starting job, he was invaluable in keeping them afloat during Ewers’ absence. Card may not see the same playing time as he did in September but, if he does again, he’ll be more than ready to go again.