Texas Longhorns Eye National Championship with Arch Manning

The Texas Longhorns are gearing up for a strong 2026 season with confident quarterback Arch Manning at the helm. Manning finished the 2025 season on a high note, throwing for 11 touchdowns with one interception over the final five games while running for four TDs and even catching a TD pass. With top transfers like wide receiver Cam Coleman, linebacker Rasheem Biles, running backs Raleek Brown and Hollywood Smothers, and offensive tackle Melvin Siani, the Longhorns have a chance to make a deep playoff run. Head coach Steve Sarkisian has high hopes for the team, saying 'our ability to create explosive plays is showing up' after bringing in the new transfers. The Longhorns need to improve their O-line, which was inconsistent last year, but with the new additions, they could be a force to be reckoned with. And with the hire of new defensive coordinator Will Muschamp, who brought his double-A-gap pressure from Georgia, the Longhorns' defense is looking strong. Muschamp has playmakers at every level, including end Colin Simmons, the SEC's sack leader in 2025. The Longhorns will also have a new placekicker, punter, and long-snapper in 2026, with Gianni Spetic, Mac Chiumento, and Trey Dubuc taking over the roles. Junior Ryan Niblett finished as the nation's No. 2 punt returner in 2025, with punts returned for TDs in wins over Oklahoma and Mississippi State. The Longhorns are ranked No. 3 nationally and No. 2 in the SEC, with a good chance of making a deep playoff run. But they need to stay healthy and have their top players perform well. So, with a strong offense and defense, the Texas Longhorns are looking to make a statement in the 2026 season. The team's final season for juniors Manning, Coleman, and Colin Simmons is expected to be a memorable one. Texas will face Ohio State in Austin, and a win could boost their chances of making it to the national championship.