The Texas Longhorns finished the regular season strongly by defeating then-No. 3 Texas A&M 27-17 on November 28. Despite this win, losses to Ohio State, Florida, and Georgia prevented them from reaching the College Football Playoff during quarterback Arch Manning’s first season as a starter. The Longhorns made significant moves in the transfer portal offseason. They provided Manning with a top wide receiver, Cam Coleman, upgraded their offensive line, and added running back Hollywood Smothers. Texas heads into the 2026 season as a national championship favorite. However, the schedule promises to be challenging. Here are three pivotal games for the Longhorns this season.
Ohio State at Texas (September 12)
In 2025, Ohio State’s defense stifled Manning’s performance as they defeated Texas 14-7 at Ohio Stadium. This season, the Buckeyes will visit Austin, and Texas aims to present a more cohesive team. With a tough SEC schedule looming, Texas must focus on winning this game instead of settling for a moral victory. New defensive coordinator Will Muschamp faces the task of defending Jeremiah Smith, a standout player in college football.
Texas at LSU (November 14)
Although Georgia won’t be on Texas’s mid-November schedule this year, a formidable LSU team will take their place. New head coach Lane Kiffin has been provided with significant resources, and LSU aims for a College Football Playoff spot. LSU quarterback Sam Leavitt previously faced Texas in the CFP with Arizona State in 2024, throwing for 222 yards and one interception, while rushing for 60 yards, during Texas’s 39-31 double overtime win in the Peach Bowl quarterfinal. Now with improved talent at LSU, Leavitt presents a challenge. The Texas-LSU game could influence the SEC championship and the CFP race.
Texas at Texas A&M (November 27)
Texas has emerged victorious in the last three matchups with Texas A&M, including an upset last season over the unbeaten Aggies. Texas A&M aims to return to CFP contention with quarterback Marcel Reed leading the team. Reed struggled against Texas’s defense last year, with 180 passing yards and two interceptions. As the Longhorns travel to College Station, high stakes are likely. A victory over their rivals at Kyle Field may determine whether Texas secures a bye for the CFP or faces a road challenge in the first playoff round.