AUSTIN, Texas — In a dominant display, Quinn Ewers threw for 333 yards and five touchdowns as the fifth-ranked Texas Longhorns defeated the struggling Florida Gators with a score of 49-17 on Saturday. This victory came just two days after Florida’s third-year coach, Billy Napier, received a public endorsement from the athletic director at the university.
Ewers got off to a quick start, connecting with Matthew Golden and Gunnar Helm for early touchdowns in the first quarter. He later found Quintrevion Wisner, who took a screen pass 50 yards to the end zone, before again hitting Golden for a 32-yard touchdown in the second quarter. By halftime, Texas had built an overwhelming 35-0 lead.
Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian had previously expressed concerns about the team’s offensive rhythm, but they appeared to be back on track, executing several big plays throughout the game. Ewers’ performance could have been even more impressive, as he had a couple of deep throws that his receivers failed to haul in. After throwing his fifth touchdown, he was substituted by Arch Manning in the third quarter.
On the other side, Florida started quarterback Aidan Warner, a Yale transfer, since freshman DJ Lagway was sidelined due to a hamstring injury. Warner, who began the season as a third-string quarterback, completed 12 of 25 passes for 132 yards but struggled, throwing two interceptions.
The loss raises questions about the commitment of athletic director Scott Stricklin towards Napier’s future, especially with his current record standing at 15-19. While previous narrow losses to rivals Tennessee and Georgia hinted at progress, this game against Texas showcased the team’s struggles more starkly, leading to greater scrutiny.
Despite Texas allowing 11 sacks in their last two games, the offensive line played much more effectively in this contest, mostly providing Ewers the protection he needed. He was sacked early in the game but faced little pressure thereafter, benefitting from a strategy that included quick reads and short passes. The Longhorns need to remain cautious about Ewers taking hits, given his ongoing issues with an abdominal strain.
Looking ahead, Florida will host the No. 14 LSU Tigers next Saturday, while Texas heads to Arkansas for their next matchup.