BREAKING: Maalik Murphy Named Texas Longhorns Starting QB vs. BYU
AUSTIN, TX -- Steve Sarkisian has named Maalik Murphy as the Texas Longhorns starting quarterback for the team's matchup vs. the BYU Cougars on Saturday at Darrell K. Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium.
"Maalik is going to start Saturday," Sarkisian said on Thursday.
Sarkisian picked Murphy over true freshman Arch Manning, the former No. 1 overall player in the 2023 recruiting class, and nephews of NFL legends Peyton and Eli Manning, after a solid week of practice in which both players split first-team reps.
“There’s not a throw that he can’t make," Sarkisian said of Murphy on Monday. "I think he’s got really good leadership qualities. The guys like playing with Maalik.”
Maalik Murphy vs. the Houston Cougars
© Maria Lysaker, USA TODAY
Based on their respective performances in the spring game, as well as the fact that Murphy got all of the in-game second-team reps this season, Murphy was the logical choice to replace Ewers under center.
In three appearances this season, Murphy has completed 4 of 8 passes for 47 yards - the majority of which came against Rice in the season opener.
And in the Orange-White game this spring, he finished 9 of 13 passing for 165 yards and one touchdown, which was highlighted by a beautiful 79-yard touchdown to freshman receiver Johntay Cook.
"When he really started to settle in, he has a natural ability to pass the football," Sarkisian said after the spring game. "He's got great vision. When he pushes the ball down the field, it's natural. I think the sky is the limit for the guy."
Murphy was an elite, albeit raw prospect coming out of Junipero Serra in California, and was one of the linchpins of the 2022 class.
However, with the arrival of Ewers last season, and now Arch Manning in 2023, Murphy's spot, and his future with the program seemed to be in jeopardy.
But despite that adversity, as well as injuries that hampered his ability to get on the field for most of 2022, and the beginning of spring football, Murphy accepted the challenge and thrived.
Texas Longhorns quarterback Maalik Murphy (6) at the line of scrimmage during the game against the Houston Cougars at TDECU Stadium.
Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Now, Murphy is getting his opportunity, and if he can take advantage, could find himself starting under center once Ewers departs for the NFL.
Of course, there will be immense pressure from fans and boosters alike to play the former five-star Manning.
Murphy will have to play extremely well to keep that pressure at a minimum. If he doesn't, Manning will be ready and waiting in the wings to try and take that spot.
