When Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers set foot on the gridiron for the 2025 College Football Playoff (CFP), there was an underlying story that had nothing to do with his team’s game plan or the opponent on the other side. The eyes of the college football world were on him for a different reason: Ewers, the Texas quarterback, was facing his former team, Ohio State, in what had the potential to be a historic and emotionally charged matchup.
As the stakes grew higher, so did the curiosity surrounding Ewers’ reaction to facing Ohio State—the program he once called home. Known for his poise and maturity on and off the field, Quinn Ewers provided a level-headed and classy response when asked about his feelings regarding the game. His demeanor and words during media sessions not only displayed his growth as a player but also highlighted the values that would make him a leader both for his current team and in the eyes of college football fans nationwide.
Ewers’ Journey from Ohio State to Texas
Quinn Ewers’ path to the 2025 CFP has been anything but ordinary. The young quarterback from Southlake, Texas, was one of the most highly-touted high school recruits in the country. Ewers originally committed to the University of Texas before flipping to Ohio State. After spending just one season in Columbus, Ewers transferred back to his home state and became the starting quarterback for the Texas Longhorns.
His decision to transfer from Ohio State was not taken lightly, and it marked a significant shift in his career trajectory. As with any high-profile transfer, there was bound to be talk about unfinished business, and Ewers certainly had an unusual circumstance ahead of him when Texas was set to face Ohio State in the CFP. While it’s often a narrative of a player returning to face a former team with a chip on their shoulder, Ewers’ perspective was anything but that.
Ewers’ Classy Response to Facing Ohio State
When asked about the prospect of playing against Ohio State, Ewers could have easily played up the angle of facing a program he had once been a part of, highlighting any perceived animosity or rivalry. Instead, Ewers responded in a way that truly showed his maturity and sportsmanship.
“I’m just focused on what’s in front of me,” Ewers said during a press conference leading up to the CFP matchup. “It’s a big game for Texas, and I’m just thankful for the opportunity to be playing in this position. Ohio State gave me a lot, and I respect that program and everything I learned there. But right now, I’m fully focused on being the best leader I can be for this team.”
This response was emblematic of the mindset Ewers carried into the game. Rather than allowing himself to be caught up in the narrative of facing his former teammates, he chose to focus on the team he currently plays for. He gave credit to Ohio State for its role in his development, rather than turning it into a “revenge” story or playing up personal emotions.
The Importance of Maturity in High-Profile Games
In college football, there are many players who would have used a scenario like this to stoke flames of rivalry, whether for personal motivation or media attention. Yet Ewers demonstrated a level of maturity that many of his peers might not have been able to achieve in a similar situation. This composure became a reflection of the growth he had undergone over the course of his college career.
One of the most challenging aspects of playing quarterback is managing the mental aspect of the game. As the leader of the offense, a quarterback’s ability to stay calm, focused, and confident, no matter the circumstances, is often what separates good players from great ones. Ewers has continued to prove that he understands this, as his performance on the field has often been steady and consistent, even during emotionally charged moments. His response to facing Ohio State showcased his ability to keep perspective and not let the outside noise distract him from his primary goal: leading Texas to victory.
“I owe a lot to Ohio State,” Ewers said. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without that experience. That’s how I look at it. Football is a team game, and no matter who we’re playing, I’m just doing my best to help my guys get the win.”
His Leadership Role at Texas
Ewers’ comments about Ohio State highlight the key role his leadership plays for Texas. Rather than making the game about him or his personal journey, Ewers placed the focus on the team. His understanding of the importance of collective effort over individual accolades speaks volumes about the leadership qualities that have become his hallmark.
Throughout the 2024-2025 season, Ewers has been one of the most consistent quarterbacks in college football. He finished the regular season with impressive statistics, showing growth in his decision-making, accuracy, and leadership. But it wasn’t just his arm that impressed people; it was his ability to elevate the players around him. The way he handled his relationship with his teammates—particularly his younger receivers and offensive linemen—was another reflection of his maturity.
As a leader, Ewers has set a tone that the Longhorns have thrived under. His approach to big games, particularly when dealing with personal history like facing Ohio State, has been a model of professionalism. Players often look to their quarterback for guidance and stability, and Ewers has consistently shown that he understands the weight of his responsibility.
Ewers’ Perspective on Ohio State’s Impact
In addition to maintaining his focus on the game, Ewers did not shy away from acknowledging Ohio State’s role in his career. During media days leading up to the CFP game, Ewers emphasized the positive aspects of his time with the Buckeyes.
“I learned a lot from Coach Day and the coaches at Ohio State. It was a great experience, and I’m thankful for it,” Ewers said. “It’s not about holding grudges or feeling a certain way; it’s about appreciating what you learned and how it helped you grow as a player and a person.”
This humility and respect for his former program is indicative of the attitude that has served him well in his journey from high school phenom to college star. There’s no doubt that his brief stint at Ohio State shaped him, and rather than dismissing it or using it as fuel for a bitter rivalry, Ewers embraced it as part of his story.
The Future of Quinn Ewers
As the Texas Longhorns prepare for the College Football Playoff, Ewers’ leadership and mindset will undoubtedly be crucial to the team’s success. His ability to keep a level head, handle the pressure, and respect the journey that got him to this point speaks to the kind of player and person he has become.
Though the matchup against Ohio State may have had its own unique narrative, Quinn Ewers’ response—grounded in respect, gratitude, and professionalism—sets an example for the next generation of athletes. His classy approach to facing his former team is a reminder that success in college football isn’t just about the X’s and O’s but also about character, maturity, and how players carry themselves both on and off the field.
In the end, Quinn Ewers’ journey is a testament to the power of resilience, respect, and leadership. It’s clear that the Texas quarterback is not only prepared to face Ohio State in the CFP but is also prepared for whatever comes next in his career. No matter the outcome, Ewers has proven that his response to adversity—and the way he handles big moments—is a key part of what makes him a special player.
