The University of Tennessee will welcome the Texas Longhorns to Neyland Stadium on September 26, 2026, for a much‑anticipated non‑conference football showdown. The game marks the first meeting between the two programs in more than a decade and will be played under the iconic arches of one of college football’s most storied venues.
A rivalry that spans decades
Texas holds a 2‑1 edge in the all‑time series, having defeated Tennessee in 1969 and 1953 before the Volunteers claimed a 20‑14 win on New Year’s Day 1951. All three contests were traditionally held on New Year’s Day at the Cotton Bowl, but the 2026 meeting will break that pattern by taking place in Knoxville.
The 1951 victory remains the only time Tennessee has beaten the Longhorns. In that game, Hank Lauricella rushed for 131 yards on 16 carries, while Andy Kozar added 92 yards and two touchdowns on 20 attempts. Tennessee’s ground attack compiled 295 rushing yards, outscoring Texas 13‑0 in the second half and securing a 20‑14 final margin.
Looking ahead to 2026
The upcoming contest will be broadcast nationally on ABC and ESPN, bringing renewed attention to a series that has long captivated fans of both programs. While the stakes for the 2026 game are still unfolding, the matchup promises to add another chapter to a rivalry that has featured three New Year’s Day meetings and a legacy of hard‑fought ground games.