Johnny Manziel Puts Faith in Quinn Ewers as the Most Reliable QB in the College Football Playoff
As the College Football Playoff heats up, former Heisman winner Johnny Manziel has made his pick for the quarterback he trusts most in high-stakes moments. Among the semifinalists—Will Howard (Ohio State), Riley Leonard (Notre Dame), and Drew Allar (Penn State)—Manziel singled out Texas Longhorns QB Quinn Ewers as the one he’d want leading his team when the game is on the line.
Speaking to Action Network, Manziel praised Ewers’ ability to deliver under pressure, particularly highlighting his clutch performance against Arizona State in the quarterfinals. “I think I’d rather take Quinn, with the way he played in those clutch moments,” Manziel said. “The guy has been to back-to-back College Football Playoffs. He’s been in big games and big moments. Last year against Washington, they were just one or two plays away from advancing to the national title. I trust Quinn the most among the remaining quarterbacks.”
Manziel’s confidence in Ewers stems from his ability to thrive in critical situations. One of the most defining examples came in Texas’ overtime victory against Arizona State, where Ewers fired a touchdown pass on fourth down to extend the game and ultimately secure the Longhorns’ spot in the semifinals.
Quinn Ewers’ Journey to Leadership
For Ewers, the journey to becoming the Longhorns’ trusted leader began during his first fall camp. Reflecting on earning the starting role, Ewers credited the moment Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian put his faith in him. “During my first fall camp, I was battling with Hudson Card for the starting job,” Ewers shared via Inside Texas. “Toward the end, Sark and I had a good conversation where he pretty much told me it’s my job. That was a big step for me. Knowing I was the starter boosted my confidence and allowed me to focus on leading the team.”
Ewers’ confidence and composure have paid dividends for Texas, helping the Longhorns secure consecutive College Football Playoff appearances. His knack for delivering in critical moments has not only earned him the trust of his team but also impressed legends like Manziel.
What Sets Ewers Apart
Manziel’s endorsement is not just about stats; it’s about Ewers’ ability to perform under immense pressure. While the other semifinal quarterbacks have had impressive seasons, Ewers’ track record in playoff scenarios and his leadership in crunch time give him the edge.
With Texas on the verge of a potential national title run, all eyes will be on Ewers to see if he can continue to rise to the occasion. For now, he has the trust of his teammates, his coaches, and one of college football’s most electrifying alumni, Johnny Manziel.
Looking Ahead
As the Longhorns prepare for their semifinal showdown, Ewers will need to channel the confidence that has brought him this far. Whether it’s overtime heroics or steady leadership throughout, his performance could determine whether Texas advances to the championship game.
For Manziel, the verdict is clear: if the game comes down to the wire, Quinn Ewers is the quarterback you want leading the charge.
