Key Games to Shape the Texas Longhorns’ 2026 Football Season

The Texas Longhorns put forth a strong effort toward the end of the regular season, defeating then-No. 3 Texas A&M with a 27-17 victory on November 28. Despite this win, losses to Ohio State, Florida, and Georgia kept the Longhorns out of the College Football Playoff (CFP) in Arch Manning’s inaugural season as starting quarterback.

The Longhorns made substantial moves in the transfer portal during the offseason. They aimed to bolster their lineup by providing Manning with a top-tier wide receiver, Cam Coleman. They also strengthened their offensive line and acquired a versatile running back, Hollywood Smothers. Texas is entering the 2026 season as a front-runner for the national championship title. However, like the previous season, the schedule presents several challenges.

Three Key Games to Watch

Ohio State at Texas (Sept. 12)

In 2025, Ohio State’s defense overpowered Manning, leading to a 14-7 defeat for Texas at Ohio Stadium. This year, Ohio State will travel to Austin, where Texas aims to show their growth and improvement. This game is crucial for the Longhorns, considering their tough SEC schedule ahead. Victory is essential this time, not just moral success. New defensive coordinator Will Muschamp faces a tough task in containing Ohio State’s Jeremiah Smith, considered one of the top players in college football.

Texas at LSU (Nov. 14)

Texas will not confront Georgia this mid-November, but LSU promises to be a formidable opponent. The Tigers have equipped their new head coach, Lane Kiffin, with extensive resources. They are predicted to be contenders for a CFP berth. LSU’s quarterback, Sam Leavitt, previously faced Texas in the 2024 CFP while representing Arizona State, with the Longhorns securing a 39-31 double-overtime win. At LSU, Leavitt wields more substantial talent. This late-season game against LSU is likely to influence the SEC championship and the CFP standings.

Texas at Texas A&M (Nov. 27)

Texas maintains a three-game winning streak against Texas A&M, including last season’s upset of the unbeaten Aggies. Texas A&M, led by quarterback Marcel Reed, seeks CFP contention this season. Reed’s previous struggle against Texas saw him throw for 180 yards and two interceptions. The Longhorns head to College Station with significant stakes in this rivalry game. A victory at Kyle Field could secure them a CFP bye or force a first-round road game.

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