Key Games for Texas Longhorns’ 2026 Football Season

The Texas Longhorns demonstrated determination at the end of the regular season by defeating then-No. 3 Texas A&M 27-17 on November 28. However, defeats against Ohio State, Florida, and Georgia kept the Longhorns from making the College Football Playoff during quarterback Arch Manning’s first season as a starter. In the offseason, the Longhorns made significant efforts in the transfer portal to support Manning, securing a top wide receiver in Cam Coleman, enhancing their offensive line, and adding the dynamic running back Hollywood Smothers.

Texas is entering the 2026 season as a contender for the national championship. Despite the potential, the schedule remains challenging. These three games are crucial for defining their season.

Ohio State at Texas (Sept. 12)

Ohio State’s defense previously overpowered Manning in 2025, with the Buckeyes beating Texas 14-7 at Ohio Stadium. This season, the Buckeyes will travel to Austin, where a more well-rounded Texas team will host them in Week 2. For the Longhorns, securing a victory is essential given the tough SEC schedule that follows.

New defensive coordinator Will Muschamp faces the challenge of strategizing against Jeremiah Smith, considered one of the top players in college football this fall.

Texas at LSU (Nov. 14)

This year, Texas will not face Georgia in mid-November. Instead, they will meet an anticipated LSU team. Under new head coach Lane Kiffin, LSU has been positioned with ample resources and aims to secure a spot in the College Football Playoff.

LSU’s new quarterback, Sam Leavitt, previously faced Texas in the CFP in 2024 while with Arizona State. During that match, he threw for 222 yards with one interception and added 60 rushing yards in a thrilling 39-31 double-overtime loss to Texas in the Peach Bowl. Leavitt now benefits from stronger support at LSU. This late-season matchup will likely affect both the SEC championship and CFP race.

Texas at Texas A&M (Nov. 27)

Texas enjoys a three-game winning streak against their rival Texas A&M, including last season’s upset of the previously unbeaten Aggies. A&M, with quarterback Marcel Reed, aims to contend for the CFP.

Reed struggled against Texas’ defense previously, with 180 yards and two interceptions. Texas will head to College Station with high stakes. A victory over their rival at Kyle Field could mean the difference between securing a CFP bye and facing an away game in the first round.

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