Why the Texas Longhorns Failed to Make the CFP
Arch Manning and the Texas Longhorns failed to make the College Football Playoff (CFP) this season. Here’s why.
Texas Longhorns Failed To Make the CFP
The Texas Longhorns started the 2025 NCAA season as the No. 1 ranked team in the U.S., according to the Preseason US LBM Coaches Poll, but they won’t end the season at the top.
Texas saw Manning step into the role as the No. 1 quarterback in Austin, but Manning, 21, experienced the highs and the lows that led to a disappointing season. Texas Head Coach Steve Sarkisian believed the team should’ve been in the CFP.
Texas suffered a season-opening 14-7 loss to the Ohio State Buckeyes. This was the closest game the Buckeyes played during their undefeated regular season. Texas also lost 35-10 to the Georgia Bulldogs. Texas’ biggest stain was the 29-21 loss to the Florida Gators, a team that finished the season 4-8.
Texas’ record was the biggest reason why they failed to make the CFP. Texas finished the season 9-3 and didn’t qualify for the SEC Championship, which was played on Saturday. Georgia defeated Alabama 28-7 at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium. All of the at-large teams finished the season with two or fewer losses.
Texas Longhorns’ Outlook
It’s too early to tell, but the Longhorns’ outlook appears to be uncertain, with the Longhorns potentially missing the CFP for the second straight season in 2026.
Texas’ current record and performances didn’t justify a playoff berth, despite the season-ending win over rival Texas A&M 17-7. On a positive note, the SEC has announced a nine-game conference schedule for 2026 that would allow Texas to face old and new opponents, so new rivalries could be created as the team strengthens its conference play.
Final Thoughts
The Texas Longhorns face the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in the Citrus Bowl on Dec. 31. As of Dec. 8, 63% selected Texas, and 37% picked Michigan. Texas’s odds look pretty good right now, and a win over Michigan would definitely make a statement.
