Steve Sarkisian evaluates Quinn Ewers' week ahead of Alabama game

Texas has arguably their biggest matchup of the 2023 season as they head to Tuscaloosa in week two to take on the Alabama Crimson Tide. One of the critical positions the Longhorns will need to have success at in order to pull off the upset victory will be at quarterback with Quinn Ewers.

As Texas prepares for this colossal matchup on Saturday night, head coach Steve Sarkisian provides an evaluation of Ewers, highlighting the importance of his play in the upcoming game.

“I think Quinn’s had a really good week,” said Sarkisian. “I think he has a firm understanding of the game plan and what we’re trying to do, whether it’s our base down stuff or third down, fourth down, and in the red area. I think it’s tough to go beat teams like that on the road without your quarterback playing well.

“So, hopefully, we can find a rhythm for him and create some opportunities to take some shots, and that rapport with his receivers can shine through. Because you gotta play a complete game. You can’t be a one-dimensional team. Like I said, I think we’re a really versatile team; Alabama’s a very versatile team. Both teams can win games in a variety of ways. But naturally, you need a complete game to go and try to win a game like this.”

Rhythm on offense will be tremendous for Texas, and finding that rhythm starts with Ewers. His ability to stretch the field was on full display in last season’s matchup with Alabama. That forced the Crimson Tide to not commit as many players to the box, allowing the Longhorns to find space in their rushing attack led by Bijan Robinson. Unfortunately, Ewers went down with a shoulder injury midway through the game, changing the complexity of the outcome of the contest.

Ewers did an excellent job against Rice in Week 1 in terms of ball security. The Longhorns quarterback didn’t turn the ball over while accounting for three passing touchdowns on the day. Where Ewers will have to tighten up is in the accuracy department. Ewers completed 19 of his 30 pass attempts for a 63.3 completion percentage. If he does, Texas will leave very little meat on the bone Saturday night and put themselves in a perfect position to upset the No. 3 team in the country and exact revenge for last year’s 20-19 loss at home to Alabama.