Citrus Bowl Breakdown: Michigan’s Roster Turmoil Gives Texas a Golden Opportunity
Texas may have fallen short of the College Football Playoff in its second year in the SEC, and a 9-3 finish certainly isn’t the headline fans in Austin were hoping for. But the Longhorns aren’t done yet. They’ve got one more shot to make a statement - and the Citrus Bowl matchup with Michigan is shaping up to be less of a heavyweight clash and more of a chance to dominate a team in disarray.
Let’s not sugarcoat it: Michigan is in trouble. Interim head coach Biff Poggi didn’t even try to hide it during a recent interview with CBS Austin’s Bob Ballou.
When asked about player availability for the bowl game, Poggi gave it to us straight: *“We will play hard, we’re coming… I don’t know how many we’ll come with.” *
That’s not coach-speak. That’s a red flag.
Poggi went on to suggest that as many as 25 players might not be available for the Citrus Bowl - a staggering number that would gut almost any program, let alone one trying to maintain its identity after a rocky coaching transition. The firing of Sherrone Moore threw Michigan into scramble mode at the worst possible time. Bowl prep is supposed to be about fine-tuning, not figuring out who’s still in the building.
Right now, Michigan is caught in the modern bowl season storm - opt-outs, transfer portal departures, and players understandably choosing to protect their NFL futures. According to CBS Sports’ Brandon Marcello, three players have already opted out: defensive end Derrick Moore, linebacker Jaishawn Barham, and offensive guard Giovanni El-Hadi. If Poggi’s estimate holds, that number could balloon quickly.
Meanwhile, Texas is walking into this game with a much clearer picture of its roster. Yes, the Longhorns have their own set of losses, especially on defense.
They’ll be without linebackers Anthony Hill Jr., Trey Moore, and Liona Lefau, as well as defensive backs Malik Muhammad, Jaylon Guilbeau, and Michael Taaffe, plus edge rusher Ethan Burke. Those are real hits, no question.
But here’s the difference: Texas knows who’s out - and they’ve had time to plan around it.
Offensively, the Longhorns are in far better shape. Arch Manning is set to lead a group that still includes key playmakers like Ryan Wingo, Emmett Mosley V, tight end Jack Endries, and running back Quintrevion Wisner. That kind of continuity matters, especially when you’re facing a Michigan team that might be paper-thin in the trenches and missing key pieces in its front seven.
This game isn’t just about talent - it’s about stability. And right now, Texas has it. Michigan doesn’t.
So while missing the CFP still stings in Austin, the Citrus Bowl offers something else: the chance to control the narrative. A strong showing here won’t erase the disappointment of falling short of the playoff, but it can absolutely reshape how the season is remembered.
If Michigan shows up in Orlando shorthanded and unsure, Texas has a clear job: start fast, impose their will, and leave no doubt. This isn’t just a bowl game anymore. It’s a chance to close the year with purpose - and send a message about what’s coming next.