Florida’s 2026 football season began positively, with the Gators achieving a 4-0 record after defeating then-No. 4 Ole Miss in Week 4. However, Florida’s momentum slowed as they lost the subsequent two games. The team faced Texas as underdogs amid their two-game losing streak. A crucial late-game sack-fumble by Arch Manning propelled Florida to a 30-27 upset victory.
Historically, Texas has faced challenges against Florida, notably losing 29-21 in October 2025. That season saw Florida end with a 4-8 record. The last eight days compounded difficulties for Texas, which experienced a demoralizing defeat against Oklahoma, losing their No. 1 ranking. Coach Steve Sarkisian is considering various strategies to rejuvenate the team following consecutive losses to SEC opponents.
“Everything’s going to be evaluated,” Sarkisian remarked, hinting at potential changes, including switching quarterbacks. He noted that though Arch Manning wasn’t flawless, blaming him solely wasn’t the solution.
During their recent game against Florida, Texas managed only 50 offensive snaps, the lowest under Sarkisian’s leadership. Manning’s performance included 173 passing yards and one touchdown but also five sacks by Florida. Texas held a record of defeating 22 unranked opponents consecutively at their home stadium before this loss. As pointed out by ESPN Research, they became only the third team since 1936 to achieve No. 1 ranking and lose back-to-back games to unranked teams.
London Montgomery contributed notably to Florida’s success, running decisively against Justin Cryer during the match’s second half. Sarkisian’s candid review of Texas’ recent games acknowledged the team’s underwhelming performance.
“We’re not playing very good football right now,” he observed. “I have to evaluate everything. It’s gonna be a long night.” Sarkisian, responsible for Texas’ offensive strategies, is set to scrutinize his playcalling role as part of the evaluation.
Next Saturday, Texas is scheduled to face Ole Miss in Austin, continuing their quest to improve their form.