Texas Reloaded: Fueled by Snub, the Longhorns Are Coming for 2026
If you thought Texas was going to sit quietly after being left out of the 2025 College Football Playoff, think again. The Longhorns have spent the offseason reloading with precision, and they’re not just aiming to make noise in 2026 - they’re looking to leave no doubt.
Head coach Steve Sarkisian went to work in the transfer portal like a man on a mission, and the results speak volumes. Texas landed some of the biggest names available, including wide receiver Cam Coleman (Auburn), running backs Raleek Brown (Arizona State) and Hollywood Smothers (NC State), and linebacker Rasheem Biles (Pitt). Each one brings not just talent, but proven production - and they’re not coming to Austin to sit on the sidelines.
This isn’t just about adding depth. This is about building a roster that can dominate from Week 1 through the postseason.
A Snub That Still Stings
Let’s rewind for a moment. Texas finished 9-3 last season, closing strong with six wins in their final seven games. But when the CFP committee made its picks, it was Oklahoma - not Texas - that got the nod as the No. 8 seed.
Never mind that Texas had beaten Oklahoma head-to-head, 23-6. Never mind that the Longhorns had three wins over top-10 teams - No.
6 Oklahoma, No. 9 Vanderbilt, and No.
3 Texas A&M - while the Sooners’ résumé included wins over No. 15 Michigan, No.
4 Alabama, and No. 23 Missouri.
The committee went with the cleaner record: Oklahoma at 10-2 over Texas at 9-3.
Of course, Oklahoma didn’t last long in the playoff, falling to Alabama in the first round. Meanwhile, Texas was left wondering what might’ve been - and then took out that frustration in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl.
Manning Makes His Mark
Quarterback Arch Manning delivered a statement performance in that bowl game, torching Michigan for 376 total yards and four touchdowns in a 41-27 win. It was the kind of game that turns heads - and sets expectations sky-high for 2026.
Sarkisian, drenched in a shower of cheese crackers instead of Gatorade, could at least smile knowing his quarterback looked every bit the part of a future Heisman contender. Manning’s command of the offense, his poise under pressure, and his ability to make plays in and out of structure were all on full display.
And now he’ll be surrounded by even more firepower.
Offensive Arsenal Reloaded
The additions of Brown and Smothers give Texas a dynamic one-two punch in the backfield. Combined, they rushed for over 2,000 yards and 10 touchdowns last season - and they’re both capable of breaking off game-changing plays. Whether it’s Brown’s burst or Smothers’ physicality, this duo adds serious juice to the Longhorns' ground game.
Out wide, Coleman brings size, speed, and a knack for making contested catches. He hauled in over 700 yards and five touchdowns last year, and with Manning throwing him the ball, that production could skyrocket.
This offense isn’t just talented - it’s explosive. And with Sarkisian calling the shots, don’t be surprised if Texas leads the nation in a few key categories by season’s end.
Defense With an Edge
If the offense is built to light up the scoreboard, the defense is being forged in fire - and maybe a little fury - under coordinator Will Muschamp. Known for his intensity and aggressive schemes, Muschamp has a reputation for building defenses that hit hard and play fast. He’ll have plenty to work with, too.
Linebacker Rasheem Biles is a game-changer. He racked up 101 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, and scored three defensive touchdowns last season.
That kind of production doesn’t just happen - it’s the result of instinct, preparation, and relentless effort. Biles was an all-conference performer, and his presence gives Texas a true tone-setter in the middle of the field.
With longtime assistant Blake Gideon also in the mix, the Longhorns’ defense is in good hands. Expect a unit that plays with purpose - and maybe a little bit of a chip on its shoulder after watching the playoff from home last year.
Eyes on the Prize
The message from Sarkisian heading into 2026 is clear: no more debates, no more what-ifs. Texas doesn’t want to leave its fate in the hands of a selection committee. They want to settle everything on the field.
With a Heisman-caliber quarterback, a loaded offense, and a defense built to punish, the Longhorns are poised to make their case - loudly.
And if they play the way they’re capable of, there won’t be any need for committee discussions this time around. Texas is coming, and they’re not asking for permission.