The Texas Longhorns demonstrated strength at the end of their regular season with a victory over then-No. 3 Texas A&M, winning 27-17 on November 28. Despite this, losses to Ohio State, Florida, and Georgia kept them from the College Football Playoff in quarterback Arch Manning’s first starting season. The Longhorns focused heavily on the transfer portal off-season, securing a top wide receiver in Cam Coleman, enhancing the offensive line, and adding powerful running back Hollywood Smothers. Heading into the 2026 campaign, Texas is favorites for the national championship. Although challenging matches remain, here are three key games that could shape their season.
Ohio State at Texas (September 12)
In 2025, Ohio State’s defense prevailed over Manning, defeating Texas 14-7 at Ohio Stadium. This season, the Buckeyes will play in Austin, and Texas is expected to be a more complete team when these College Football Playoff contenders clash in Week 2. For the Longhorns, this game needs more than a moral victory. Navigating a tough Southeastern Conference schedule means Texas must aim for a win here. Defensive coordinator Will Muschamp faces a challenge in containing Jeremiah Smith, one of college football’s best players this season.
Texas at LSU (November 14)
This season, Texas will not face Georgia in mid-November, but a formidable LSU team will serve as a significant opponent. Head coach Lane Kiffin’s first season has seen considerable resources invested in the Tigers, who aim for a College Football Playoff position. New LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt previously faced Texas in the CFP when he played for Arizona State in 2024. During that game, he threw for 222 yards with one interception and added 60 rushing yards. Texas eventually won 39-31 in double overtime in a CFP quarterfinal at the Peach Bowl. Now, Leavitt benefits from better surrounding talent at LSU. This late-season clash between Texas and LSU could significantly impact both the SEC championship and the CFP race.
Texas at Texas A&M (November 27)
Texas has emerged victorious in the last three matchups against Texas A&M, including last year’s upset over the previously unbeaten Aggies. Texas A&M aims to return to the College Football Playoff contention with Marcel Reed as quarterback. Reed faced setbacks last season against Texas’s defense, recording 180 passing yards and two interceptions. As they head to College Station, the stakes will be high for the Longhorns. A victory against their rival at Kyle Field might mean securing a bye in the CFP, rather than heading for an away game in the first round.