The annual Red River Rivalry game between Texas and Oklahoma is one of college football’s most storied matchups, and this year, it lived up to its hype. With fans packing the Cotton Bowl and millions watching from home, the Texas Longhorns emerged victorious in a hard-fought battle against the Oklahoma Sooners. After the game, Longhorns quarterback Quinn Ewers made a revealing admission that has given fans, analysts, and teammates alike insight into his mindset and the team’s direction moving forward.
For the Texas Longhorns, the 2024 Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma held special significance. A win not only bolstered their position in the Big 12 standings but also served as a statement that this Texas team is different—one that can compete on a national level. Quinn Ewers, the team’s starting quarterback, was at the center of this effort. He delivered a standout performance, leading the Longhorns’ offense with poise and precision, showcasing why many believe he is one of the top signal-callers in college football.
Ewers has been a focal point for Texas this season. After a rollercoaster freshman year, he came into this season determined to prove himself as one of the elite quarterbacks in the nation. The Red River game provided a chance to show he could step up on one of the sport’s biggest stages, and he did not disappoint. Ewers demonstrated his ability to make plays both in the air and on the ground, executing the game plan with efficiency and maintaining composure under pressure.
After the game, Ewers took to the press conference to reflect on the win and shared an admission that surprised many. He spoke candidly about his journey as a quarterback at Texas, the pressures of living up to the high expectations, and the growth he has experienced since his early struggles.
“I think this game was a huge step for me personally,” Ewers said. “There’s been a lot of ups and downs, but I’ve learned that sometimes you have to be patient with yourself and trust the process. Early in my career, I let the noise get to me a bit, but I’ve grown a lot since then. I’m playing with more confidence, and that’s thanks to the support of my teammates and coaches.”
Ewers’ admission highlights the mental challenges that young quarterbacks face, especially those playing for programs with such rich traditions and lofty expectations. His remarks suggested a new level of maturity and self-awareness, reflecting his ability to handle the pressure that comes with leading a team like Texas.
For Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian and the rest of the team, Ewers’ comments are a positive sign. The growth and maturity he displayed during the press conference mirror his progress on the field. His improved decision-making and ability to adapt to defensive schemes have been instrumental in Texas’ success this season, and the win over Oklahoma solidifies their position as contenders for the Big 12 championship.
Coach Sarkisian spoke highly of Ewers’ development, saying, “Quinn has come a long way, both as a player and a leader. We’ve seen him embrace the role of being a team leader, and that’s something you need from your quarterback, especially in games like these. The way he carried himself today and in the locker room afterwards is a testament to his growth.”
Ewers’ willingness to acknowledge his past struggles and his determination to improve has resonated with his teammates as well. Several players, including senior wide receiver Xavier Worthy, spoke about the impact Ewers has had on the team’s chemistry and focus. “Quinn’s been a different guy this year—more focused, more determined,” Worthy shared. “We all feed off that energy, and it shows on the field.”
With the win over Oklahoma, Texas now looks ahead to the remainder of its schedule with renewed confidence. The Longhorns have positioned themselves well within the Big 12 and are now a strong candidate for a spot in the College Football Playoff, especially with Ewers at the helm. His ability to elevate his game when it matters most and his growing leadership presence could make the difference as Texas navigates the challenging weeks ahead.
However, Ewers remains focused on keeping the team grounded. During his post-game comments, he emphasized the importance of not getting complacent after a big win. “This win means a lot, but we have to keep our eyes on the bigger goal,” Ewers said. “We can celebrate this tonight, but come Monday, it’s back to work. We have to stay hungry.
Quinn Ewers’ major admission following the victory over Oklahoma reveals much about the quarterback’s character and the state of the Texas program. His reflections on growth and patience suggest a player who has come into his own and understands the weight of leading a storied program like Texas. It’s a reminder that even highly-touted recruits go through growing pains, but with the right mindset and support, they can emerge stronger.
For Texas fans, Ewers’ words are a promising sign that the team has a leader who understands the importance of mental toughness as much as physical talent. As the Longhorns push deeper into the season with aspirations of a Big 12 title and possibly a spot in the College Football Playoff, the growth of their quarterback could be the X-factor that defines their success.
Ultimately, Ewers’ post-game admission is a testament to his journey—one of resilience, learning, and a renewed sense of purpose. It is a story that resonates with the Texas faithful, who have long yearned for a quarterback that can bring their program back to national prominence. With Quinn Ewers leading the charge, the Longhorns appear to be on the right track, with their sights set firmly on bigger goals in the weeks to come.