In a highly anticipated clash, Coach Steve Sarkisian has expressed optimism regarding quarterback Quinn Ewers’ return to the field for the No. 1 ranked Texas Longhorns as they take on No. 18 Oklahoma in the famed Allstate Red River Rivalry this Saturday in Dallas. Ewers has been recovering from an oblique injury sustained during a game against UTSA on September 14. He was replaced by rising star Arch Manning after the injury, who has impressively led the Longhorns to victories over UL Monroe and Mississippi State in his absence.

Sarkisian revealed that Ewers has participated in three practices over the course of the past week, including a session on Monday. “I thought he looked good coming off the bye week,” Sarkisian remarked, emphasizing the quarterback's recovery. "I think if anybody benefited from the time off, it was probably him. We will continue to assess him daily, but I feel confident about how he looked on Monday."

With kickoff set for 3:30 p.m. ET on ABC, the Longhorns are preparing to face a rejuvenated Oklahoma side, led by new starting quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr., who stepped in for the struggling Jackson Arnold. Hawkins had a stellar debut, completing 10 of 15 passes for 161 yards, while also showcasing his mobility with 69 rushing yards and a touchdown in a narrow 27-21 victory at Auburn.

Sarkisian noted, "He went 50 for a touchdown against Auburn, so we need to be very aware of his capability to extend plays and create explosive moments with his legs." The stakes are incredibly high as the rivals gear up for what many expect to be another nail-biter, with nine of the last ten matchups being decided by one score or less.

Last year's encounter was nothing short of dramatic, as No. 12 Oklahoma executed a last-minute drive to win 34-30 against the No. 3 Longhorns, despite Ewers throwing for an impressive 346 yards that afternoon. However, two interceptions and five sacks marked a challenging game for the young quarterback.

This will be the 44th meeting between ranked teams in this storied rivalry, trailing only the Ohio State-Michigan matchup for the most instances at this level. Remarkably, this is the fifth time Texas enters the fray holding the No. 1 ranking, with an impressive record of 3-0-1 in their previous four games in this position.

Sarkisian understands the unique intensity and unpredictability that comes with this rivalry. “There’s just something about this game that makes it special,” he stated, alluding to the electric atmosphere that the State Fair of Texas will bring. With adrenaline already at an all-time high, Sarkisian humorously claimed that motivational speeches would be unnecessary. “I could probably show up at kickoff and our guys will be more than ready to play on Saturday.”

As Texas seeks to maintain its dominance and Oklahoma looks for redemption, fans can expect an explosive showdown filled with unforgettable moments that solidify this rivalry’s place in college football lore. Don’t miss it!