Key Games That Will Shape Texas Longhorns’ 2026 Season

The Texas Longhorns had a notable end to their regular season by defeating then-ranked No. 3 Texas A&M with a score of 27-17 on November 28. Despite this success, losses to Ohio State, Florida, and Georgia prevented the Longhorns from entering the College Football Playoff during Arch Manning’s debut season as starting quarterback. This offseason, the Longhorns made significant investments in the transfer portal. Arch Manning now has a true No. 1 wide receiver in Cam Coleman, improved offensive linemen, and a dynamic running back in Hollywood Smothers.

As the 2026 campaign approaches, Texas is viewed as a strong contender for the national championship. However, the schedule presents challenges. Here are three crucial games that will define the Longhorns’ season:

Ohio State at Texas (September 12)

In 2025, Ohio State’s defense outperformed Manning, leading to a 14-7 victory at Ohio Stadium. This season, Ohio State travels to Austin, where Texas is expected to be a more complete team. Both teams have College Football Playoff aspirations, making this Week 2 matchup critical for Texas. With a tough SEC schedule ahead, Texas needs to secure a win.

New defensive coordinator Will Muschamp will face the challenge of containing Jeremiah Smith, who is considered one of the top players in college football this fall.

Texas at LSU (November 14)

Texas will not face Georgia in mid-November this year. Instead, a highly anticipated game against LSU will take its place. LSU, under new head coach Lane Kiffin, has received substantial backing and is expected to vie for a playoff spot.

LSU’s new quarterback Sam Leavitt previously played against Texas in the CFP during his time at Arizona State in 2024. In that matchup, he recorded 222 passing yards and one interception while rushing for 60 yards in a double-overtime game that ended with a Texas 39-31 victory. Leavitt now has a stronger supporting cast at LSU.

This late-season game between Texas and LSU will likely impact both the SEC championship and the CFP picture.

Texas at Texas A&M (November 27)

Texas has won the last three encounters against their rivals, Texas A&M. This includes an upset of the previously unbeaten Aggies last year.

Texas A&M, led by quarterback Marcel Reed, aims to be back in the CFP mix. Reed struggled in the previous meeting, totaling 180 yards passing and two interceptions in the loss. The Longhorns will head to College Station with significant stakes. Triumphing over their rivals at Kyle Field could secure a first-round bye in the CFP, while a loss might result in a road game to start the playoffs.