In the estimation of some, Michael Taaffe means as much as Sam Ehlinger did. Here’s why that doesn’t track in the slightest.
Michael Taaffe Compared to Longhorns Legend
Although his play and underdog story should inspire their fanbase, comparing him to Texas legend, Ehlinger makes little to no sense. In the eyes of a few, Taaffe’s passion and presence will lead the Longhorns just as much as Arch Manning.
The leader of your 2025 Texas Football team
Make no mistake, Arch Manning will be a leader too…but he will likely look to one of his best friends on the roster when times get tough
Michael Taaffe is Sam Ehlinger but at Safety pic.twitter.com/XmLjVoRQD0
— Nash (@NashTalksTexas) March 10, 2025
Granted, going from a lightly regarded player to claiming a starting spot on a playoff team remains a great story. However, equating him to Manning and worse, Ehlinger does not fit.
Honestly, many people outside of Austin only know Taaffe for this meltdown following a loss. While that assessment isn’t fair to the player, it does remain on the minds of those who know him.
Quinn Ewers led the team before Manning and before him. Ehlinger put in serious work in burnt orange. Over a four-year, 46-game span, Ehlinger compiled 11,436 passing yards, 2002 yards from scrimmage, and 127 combined touchdowns.
Moreover, the Austin native led the program to three bowl victories, including a Sugar Bowl victory over the University of Georgia.
A few other items flow to mind if you strictly look at the record books. First, those 11,436 yards rank second in history, just as his 94 touchdown passes.
When the time comes for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame, Ehlinger will take his place among the most prolific passers in college football history. When Taaffe hangs up the spikes, the adulation and reception will not match.
While Taaffe and Ehlinger did not overlap in Texas, comparing their eras and positions in the food chain dramatically differs. First, Ehlinger ended every single year on a winning note, leading his team to multiple bowl wins. In contrast, due to Texas’ appearances in the College Football Playoff, Taaffe did not. Plus, he enjoys Steve Sarkisian’s tutelage.
That remains miles ahead of watching Tom Herman unachieved with recruiting in the most football-crazy state in the entire country. Consequently, Ehlinger also deserves respect for enduring phenomenal personal losses and still fighting through them. Perseverance is not a buzzword for him; it’s a way of life.
Make no mistake, Manning did not wait his turn to share team leadership. By birthright, Manning exudes leadership. However, due to his talent, which hasn’t met a ceiling in college, Texas, as a program, he falls behind in the most substantial way possible.
Granted, Taaffe may lead in the defensive backroom, but Manning transcends positions and holds court over the entire program—a big-name quarterback for a legendary college football program in the State of Texas.
Playing quarterback at UT affords the attention of the entire team. People still remember James Brown for leading the team to their first Big 12 championship game appearance.
KEEP READING: Arch Manning Era Begins: Texas Longhorns Set for a New Chapter Under Star QB
Vince Young, Colt McCoy, Ewers, Ehlinger, and Major Applewhite. When you think of modern Texas players, each conjures up thoughts of Memorial Stadium. Playing quarterback in Austin for the Longhorns is a mood, a vibe, and a privilege. The eyes of Texas do look upon those signal callers.
Manning embraces that history while trying to guide the team to their first national championship in two decades. Taaffe’s story is one of dedication and drive to fight through adversity, and it deserves universal respect. However, Ehlinger crafted a legend for himself. They are not the same.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in football, basketball, and more!
