The 2026 college football season is already being billed as a pivotal year for the Texas Longhorns. After a promising finish to the previous campaign, the program enters the offseason with optimism that a returning starting quarterback named Manning will provide the stability needed to compete at the highest level.
A schedule to test any contender
The slate includes six games against teams that made the preseason ESPN Top 25, featuring matchups with Ohio State, Tennessee, Oklahoma, Ole Miss, LSU and Texas A&M. Each contest is expected to be a stern test of the Longhorns’ depth and tactical adaptability.
Phil Steele’s verdict
Phil Steele, the veteran analyst whose rankings are closely followed by coaches and fans alike, has officially listed Texas’ 2026 regular‑season schedule as the toughest in the nation. The assessment underscores the magnitude of the challenge facing the team.
Coach Steve Sarkisian, now in his second year at the helm, has emphasized that the team will lean on experience and versatility to navigate the demanding road ahead. He noted that the schedule’s difficulty could accelerate the development of younger players while also providing a clear measuring stick for the program’s progress.