**AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — Injury to Quinn Ewers Paves the Way for Arch Manning’s Breakout at Texas**
When Quinn Ewers went down with an injury, it opened the door for Arch Manning to make his highly anticipated debut at Texas.
The freshman quarterback, part of football’s most renowned family, made an instant impact.
Manning threw for four touchdowns and ran for another 67-yard score after replacing Ewers in the second quarter, leading the No. 2 Longhorns to a commanding 56-7 win over UTSA on Saturday night.
Texas (3-0) was up 14-0 when Ewers exited the game due to what coach Steve Sarkisian described as strained abdominal muscles. Manning’s first play resulted in a 19-yard touchdown pass to DeAndre Moore, followed by a long sprint for a rushing touchdown on the next possession as UTSA (1-2) defenders struggled to keep up.
“When the adrenaline kicks in, it helps you run a bit faster,” Manning said after the game.
He followed that up with a 51-yard touchdown pass to Isaiah Bond in the third quarter, extending Texas’ lead to 35-7. Manning’s next pass was a 75-yard deep strike to Ryan Wingo for another score.
Manning finished with an impressive stat line, completing 9 of 12 passes for 223 yards before being subbed out early in the fourth quarter after his final touchdown pass to Johntay Cook II.
“It helps when you have great players around you and good coaches,” Manning remarked.
### Ewers’ Injury
Ewers’ injury occurred after completing a 49-yard pass to tight end Gunnar Helm. He handed the ball off to Quintrevion Wisner, then signaled for medical attention before laying on his back. Although he walked off the field, Ewers was later seen in street clothes on the sideline and did not speak to the media after the game.
Ewers, who has battled injuries in the past, had been seen as a potential Heisman contender after Texas’ road victory over defending national champions Michigan. Before his injury, he completed 14 of 16 passes for 165 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception against UTSA.
### Manning’s Rise
Manning, who is the son of Cooper Manning and the nephew of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, took full advantage of the opportunity, showcasing his sharp passing and unexpected running ability. As the highest-profile backup quarterback in college football, Manning is showing signs of living up to his enormous hype.
Despite the pressure, Manning remained poised throughout, with Sarkisian praising his calm demeanor.
“It’s tough for a backup who hasn’t played much. Arch was our third-string last year,” Sarkisian said. “Playing in front of 105,000 people is no easy task. I’m really proud of Arch.”
With Ewers potentially sidelined for a period, Texas may continue to groom Manning as the starter, giving him valuable game time before the schedule intensifies. Texas plays Louisiana-Monroe next before hosting Mississippi State on Sept. 28 to kick off its first SEC season.
For now, the focus remains on Ewers’ recovery, with no definitive update on how long he’ll be out. Sarkisian mentioned the injury wasn’t caused by contact and noted, “We don’t think it’s anything structural or broken.”
Manning, who shares a close friendship with Ewers and rooms with him on the night before games, expressed concern for his teammate. “He’s been the man to me, and I hope he’s ok,” Manning said.
### What’s Next for Texas?
All eyes will now be on the Longhorns’ depth chart. With Ewers potentially out, freshman Trey Owens may become the backup quarterback behind Manning. Texas will feel confident in Manning’s ability, at least in the short term, while monitoring Ewers’ weekly status.
### Texas Defense Shines
The Longhorns’ defense has been a major strength, allowing just two touchdowns and 19 total points across three games.
### Poll Implications
Top-ranked Georgia secured a win at Kentucky, but Texas’ early dominance this season could close the gap between the Longhorns and Bulldogs in the rankings. Texas hasn’t been ranked No. 1 since 2008, and the Longhorns will host Georgia on Oct. 19 in a highly anticipated matchup.
