Staff Roundtable: Can Texas Earn the Win Against A&M with an Injured Quinn Ewers?
As the Texas Longhorns prepare to face their historic rival, the Texas A&M Aggies, in a highly anticipated showdown, a significant question looms: can Texas secure a victory with an injured Quinn Ewers at quarterback? Ewers, the Longhorns’ star signal-caller, has been dealing with lingering injuries, raising concerns about his availability and effectiveness in this critical matchup. The game’s stakes—pride, rivalry, and postseason positioning—make this discussion all the more pressing.
The Case for Texas
Texas boasts one of the most balanced rosters in college football, with talent at nearly every position. Even if Ewers isn’t at full strength, the Longhorns have the tools to compete. Their running game, led by Jonathon Brooks, has been a consistent force, capable of wearing down defenses and controlling the clock. With an offensive line that has shown steady improvement, Texas can rely on the ground game to alleviate pressure on Ewers.
The receiving corps, featuring stars like Xavier Worthy and Adonai Mitchell, is another key asset. If Ewers can play, even at less than 100%, his ability to distribute the ball to these dynamic playmakers will keep Texas’ offense dangerous. If backup Maalik Murphy is called upon, the team’s offensive depth and play-calling flexibility could help mitigate the quarterback situation.
Defensively, Texas has the upper hand. The Longhorns’ front seven, anchored by T’Vondre Sweat and Jaylan Ford, has been dominant, especially against the run. This strength could force A&M to become one-dimensional, putting the Aggies’ offense in difficult situations. The Texas secondary, while occasionally vulnerable, has the talent to hold its own against A&M’s passing attack.
The Case Against Texas
Facing Texas A&M without a fully healthy Ewers presents a steep challenge. Ewers’ arm strength, accuracy, and leadership are critical to the Longhorns’ offensive identity, and any limitations could disrupt the rhythm and flow of the game. If Ewers is unable to play effectively or if Maalik Murphy is inconsistent, Texas may struggle to sustain drives against A&M’s stout defense.
The Aggies’ defensive front, led by players like Edgerrin Cooper and Walter Nolen, is one of the best in the nation. They excel at pressuring quarterbacks and stopping the run, which could spell trouble for a Texas offense reliant on its ground game. Without Ewers at full strength to stretch the field vertically, A&M could stack the box and neutralize the Longhorns’ rushing attack.
Additionally, rivalry games often defy logic and statistics. The intensity and emotional stakes of the Texas-A&M matchup could level the playing field, especially with the Aggies playing on their home turf at Kyle Field, one of the most hostile environments in college football.
What Will It Take?
For Texas to prevail, they’ll need a comprehensive team effort. If Ewers plays, the offensive line must protect him, giving him time to make quick, decisive throws. The running backs and receivers must step up, creating opportunities to exploit A&M’s defense. Defensively, the Longhorns must dominate the line of scrimmage and force turnovers to shift momentum.
If Ewers is limited or unable to play, the team’s coaching staff must craft a conservative but effective game plan for Maalik Murphy, focusing on high-percentage throws and creative run schemes to keep the Aggies off balance.
Prediction
While an injured Quinn Ewers complicates matters, Texas has enough depth, talent, and defensive strength to remain competitive. If Ewers can manage the game and avoid mistakes, the Longhorns can edge out a victory in a hard-fought battle.
Prediction: Texas 27, Texas A&M 24
Continue reading for more interesting news
