The Texas Longhorns closed their regular season with a strong performance, defeating the then-No. 3 Texas A&M Aggies 27-17 on November 28. Despite this success, losses to Ohio State, Florida, and Georgia kept them out of the College Football Playoff during Arch Manning’s debut season as a starting quarterback. This offseason, the Longhorns utilized the transfer portal to boost their roster. They provided Manning with a top wide receiver, Cam Coleman, strengthened the offensive line, and added a dynamic running back in Hollywood Smothers.
As they prepare for the 2026 campaign, the Longhorns are among the favorites for the national championship. Yet, they will face a challenging schedule. Here are three key matchups that may shape their season.
Ohio State at Texas (September 12)
In their last encounter, Ohio State’s defense contained Manning, resulting in a 14-7 defeat for Texas at Ohio Stadium. Now, Ohio State will visit Austin in Week 2. Texas aims for more than a moral victory, knowing their upcoming SEC schedule is demanding. It is crucial for Texas to secure a win. Defensive coordinator Will Muschamp faces a tough task in countering Jeremiah Smith, considered one of the top players in college football this season.
Texas at LSU (November 14)
This mid-November game replaces their usual meeting with Georgia but brings an equally competitive LSU squad. Under new head coach Lane Kiffin, LSU has high hopes of competing for a CFP spot this season. Their new quarterback, Sam Leavitt, has faced Texas before in the CFP. In 2024, during his time at Arizona State, he threw for 222 yards with one interception, plus 60 rushing yards, during a double-overtime loss in the CFP quarterfinal. Now, equipped with a stronger team, Leavitt will present a greater challenge.
The matchup between Texas and LSU could determine the SEC championship outcomes and affect CFP standings.
Texas at Texas A&M (November 27)
The Longhorns have triumphed in their last three rivalry games against Texas A&M, including a crucial victory over the previously undefeated Aggies last season. Texas A&M, aiming for CFP inclusion, is led by quarterback Marcel Reed. He struggled against Texas last season, passing for 180 yards and two interceptions in their loss. This year’s game in College Station might influence Texas’s CFP path significantly. A win at Kyle Field could secure them a CFP bye, avoiding a first-round road game.
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