The Texas Longhorns have been a dominant force throughout the 2024 season, boasting one of the most talented rosters in college football and sitting on the cusp of a playoff berth. However, troubling injury news concerning quarterback Quinn Ewers and left tackle Kelvin Banks has left fans and analysts questioning whether the Longhorns’ championship aspirations may already be derailed.
The latest official SEC injury report revealed updates on both Ewers and Banks, shedding light on the severity of their ankle injuries and their potential availability for Texas’ upcoming games. For a program that has prided itself on depth and resilience, the injuries to two of its most critical players could present a defining challenge.
Quinn Ewers has been the engine driving Texas’ high-powered offense this season. The junior quarterback has put up impressive numbers, with over 3,000 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, and just five interceptions. His ability to extend plays with his legs and deliver accurate throws downfield has made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
The injury report indicates that Ewers is dealing with a sprained ankle suffered in the second half of Texas’ recent win over [opponent]. While not season-ending, the injury has left him limited in practice and raises concerns about his mobility, a key part of his game.
According to sources close to the program, Ewers is considered “day-to-day,” though head coach Steve Sarkisian has not ruled him out for the next game. Still, even a slightly hobbled Ewers could compromise Texas’ offensive efficiency, particularly against SEC defenses that thrive on pressuring the quarterback.
Backup quarterback Maalik Murphy is a capable option, but there’s no denying the drop-off from Ewers, who has proven himself as one of the best signal-callers in the nation.
If losing Ewers wasn’t concerning enough, the injury to Kelvin Banks might be even more impactful. The sophomore left tackle is not only one of the best linemen in the SEC but also a projected first-round NFL Draft pick. Banks has been instrumental in protecting Ewers’ blind side and opening up running lanes for Texas’ talented backfield.
Banks also suffered an ankle injury, and while the injury report describes it as “mild,” there are lingering questions about how effective he can be if not fully healthy. Offensive linemen rely heavily on their ankles for stability and leverage, so even a minor injury could hinder Banks’ ability to dominate at the line of scrimmage.
Without Banks at 100%, Texas could struggle to protect the quarterback and establish a consistent ground game, particularly against the aggressive front sevens of the SEC.
The timing of these injuries couldn’t be worse. Texas is entering a crucial stretch of its schedule, with games that will likely determine its fate in the SEC Championship race and College Football Playoff hunt. Losing Ewers and Banks—or even having them play at less than full strength—significantly lowers the Longhorns’ margin for error.
Texas has relied on its depth all season, but asking the backups to step in for players of Ewers’ and Banks’ caliber is a tall order. Opponents will undoubtedly look to exploit these vulnerabilities, especially in high-stakes matchups.
While it’s too early to say that Texas is “on default,” the pressure is mounting. For the Longhorns to stay in the hunt, Sarkisian will need to make critical adjustments and hope for speedy recoveries from his stars.
Texas fans are understandably anxious, but all hope is not lost. The Longhorns still boast one of the most talented rosters in the country, with playmakers on both sides of the ball. If Ewers and Banks can recover quickly—or if their replacements can rise to the occasion—Texas may yet overcome this adversity.
For now, though, the Longhorns’ championship dreams hang in the balance, and the next few weeks will reveal whether they are ready to weather the storm or fall victim to the SEC’s grueling demands.