Get ready for some serious gridiron drama in 2026, because Texas is at the heart of two of the most mouth-watering matchups of the college football season. But here’s where it gets controversial: these games aren’t just about rankings—they’re about rivalries, redemption, and storylines that will keep fans on the edge of their seats. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not always the top-ranked teams that deliver the most excitement; sometimes, it’s the games loaded with personal and historical significance that steal the show.
While the 2026 season is still months away, the anticipation is already building. According to Andy Staples and Ari Wasserman of On3, Texas is front and center in two of the most anticipated matchups. First up, the Longhorns’ trip to College Station to face the Texas A&M Aggies ranks as the 10th most “juicy” game of the season. But the real fireworks come in Week 2, when the Ohio State Buckeyes travel to Austin for a primetime showdown that lands at No. 2 on the list. Only Lane Kiffin’s return to Oxford as LSU’s head coach to face Ole Miss tops it, claiming the No. 1 spot.
The Texas-Ohio State matchup is a rematch of their 2025 season opener, where the Longhorns fell 14-7 after a sluggish offensive performance. This time, with Heisman hopefuls Arch Manning (Texas) and Julian Sayin (Ohio State) under center, the stakes are even higher. But here’s the bold prediction: the real battle to watch might not be quarterback vs. quarterback, but receiver vs. receiver. As Wasserman points out, the Cam Coleman (Texas) vs. Jeremiah Smith (Ohio State) matchup could be the biggest heavyweight fight in college football next year. Think about it—two of the sport’s best wideouts going head-to-head on September 12. Doesn’t that just scream primetime drama?
Now, let’s talk about the Lone Star Showdown. Texas has dominated Texas A&M in recent years, winning three straight since joining the SEC in 2024. The Aggies haven’t beaten the Longhorns in College Station since 2007, and last year’s 27-17 Texas victory in Austin ended A&M’s undefeated season and SEC Championship hopes. But here’s the question: Can the Aggies finally break the curse on November 27, or will Texas extend its streak? Staples hints at the psychological weight A&M carries into this rivalry, making it a must-watch.
Interestingly, two other Texas games narrowly missed the top-10 list. The Red River Showdown against Oklahoma on October 10 is always a highlight, with the Longhorns winning three of the last four meetings—and holding the Sooners to just nine total points in those victories. Then there’s the November 14 trip to LSU, where Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian and LSU’s Lane Kiffin—both Nick Saban protégés—will face off for the fourth time in their careers. Sarkisian leads the series 1-2, but this game could be a turning point.
Texas kicks off its season on September 5 against Texas State, but let’s be honest—it’s the matchups against Ohio State and Texas A&M that will define their year. And this is the part that sparks debate: Are these games overhyped, or are they truly the most compelling of the season? Let us know in the comments—do you think Texas will rise to the occasion, or will these matchups fall short of the hype? One thing’s for sure: 2026 is shaping up to be a season to remember for Longhorns fans and college football enthusiasts alike.
