Overview

• Texas opens at Ohio State on August 30 in a Cotton Bowl rematch, with the Buckeyes starting Julian Sayin in his first career start against the top-ranked Longhorns.
• ESPN’s matchup predictor gives Texas a slight edge in Columbus at 53.3 percent to win.
• Sportsbooks make Texas the national title favorite and list Arch Manning as the early Heisman frontrunner, including +450 for Texas at BetMGM and 6-1 Heisman odds for Manning.
• The Athletic’s model is notably cautious, placing Texas ninth with a projected 9-3 record and a 64 percent CFP chance, while Sports Illustrated simulates a run to the title game ending in a loss to Penn State.
• Analysts highlight both pressure and practical challenges for Manning, citing NFL departures at the skill spots, as EJ Manuel urges a measured approach and Paul Finebaum predicts a comfortable Texas win.