Despite a disappointing 2025 season, Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns finished strong, winning seven of their final eight games. This late-season surge, including victories over Oklahoma, Vanderbilt, Texas A&M, and Michigan, has fueled optimism for the 2026 campaign. The team also bolstered its roster with transfers Raleek Brown and Hollywood Smothers at tailback, and wide receiver Cam Coleman.
Oddsmakers have taken notice, with the Longhorns listed as co-favorites with Georgia to win the SEC and among the top contenders for the national championship. However, the team faces one of the nation's most demanding schedules, a significant hurdle for their College Football Playoff aspirations.
Challenging 2026 Schedule
By Halloween, Texas is set to host Ohio State, Ole Miss, and Florida, while also traveling to Tennessee and Oklahoma. Their difficult stretch continues with a November trip to LSU and a season finale against Texas A&M. ESPN ranks Texas' strength of schedule as the third-toughest in the country.
The transition to the SEC presents a considerable challenge, amplified by their demanding schedule. While Manning is considered an elite quarterback and the program is a national headliner, the combination of a brutal path and high expectations could lead to them being overvalued in betting markets. Despite their potential, the Longhorns face a significant challenge in securing a playoff spot in a competitive college football landscape.
One prediction suggests that Texas is a coin flip to make the College Football Playoff, with value found in betting against them. The team's betting line to miss the playoff is +150.