Rece Davis: Quinn Ewers' leash is 'really, really long' despite Arch Manning's potential

With Arch Manning behind him, Quinn Ewers boasts one of the best backups in the country. Nonetheless, ESPN’s Rece Davis is confident Ewers has no reason to worry about his job security. During an appearance on “The Pat McAfee Show,” Davis dove into Ewers’ status as Texas’ QB1.

“I haven’t talked to [Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian] but, judging from last year and his trust in Quinn, I think the leash is really, really long for Quinn,” Davis said. “I don’t think he’ll need a lot of it because he’s a really good player who’s changed his approach to football and to his career and has been been more serious about it.

“He reshaped his body. He worked harder in film. He became a much better leader. Cut his hair. The whole thing. I think he is going to have a long leash. I think he’s the undisputed No. 1. I don’t anticipate him struggling but it’s a good thing to have someone who’s as talented as Arch sitting there waiting if in fact something happens and they need him to play. But, I think there’s a clear pecking order there.”

Ewers’ internal changes paid dividends last season. In his second season as the Longhorns’ QB1, Ewers completed 69% of his passes for 3,479 yards and 22 touchdowns while only throwing six interceptions. Fueled by Ewers’ standout season, Texas reached the College Football Playoff for the first time in program history.

For his efforts, Ewers was named a Davey O’Brien Award and Earl Campbell Tyler Rose Award semifinalist. Additionally, he was a Second-Team All-Big 12 selection by the Associated Press and Phil Steele.

Arch Manning is on the rise

Despite Quinn Ewers’ undeniable talent, it’s difficult to believe Manning doesn’t stand a chance at swiping some playing time next season. Manning was the No. 1 overall prospect in the 2023 class, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies.

However, Manning only appeared in one game for Texas last season. He completed 2-of-his-5 passes for 30 yards in the Longhorns’ 57-7 win over in-state rival Texas Tech. He also recorded three carries for seven yards in the victory.

Manning garnered mass attention again during Texas’ spring game when he tallied 355 passing yards three touchdowns, including a jaw-dropping 75-yard TD pass to Isaiah Bond. Ewers and Manning will look to sharpen one another as they head into the 2024 campaign.