Texas: 3 games that will define 2026 season

June 17, 2026 - 06:43

The Texas Longhorns enter the 2026 season with high expectations, but their path to the College Football Playoff runs through three brutal matchups. These games will not just test the team's talent but will ultimately decide if they are contenders or pretenders.

First, the road trip to Michigan in early September looms large. The Wolverines are always a physical opponent, and playing in the Big House is a challenge for any visiting team. A win here would give Texas immediate national credibility and set the tone for the rest of the year. A loss, however, could expose weaknesses before the conference schedule even begins.

The second defining moment comes against Oklahoma in the Red River Rivalry. This game is always unpredictable, but in 2026 it carries extra weight. With both teams likely fighting for a spot in the SEC title race, the winner gains a massive tiebreaker advantage. The Longhorns cannot afford to drop this neutral-site showdown if they want to control their own destiny.

Finally, the regular season finale against Texas A&M could be the most important game of all. The rivalry is back, and the Aggies will be desperate to prove themselves. If Texas enters that game with a chance to win the SEC, the pressure will be immense. Surviving this stretch will require depth, discipline, and a bit of luck. If the Longhorns can win two of these three, they will be in excellent shape for a playoff berth.