Can Horns’ Top-10 Triumphs Propel Them to College Football Playoff?
The Texas Longhorns secured a decisive 27-17 victory over the No. 3 Texas A&M Aggies on November 28, 2025. This win not only ended the Aggies’ undefeated season but also reignited hopes for the Longhorns to make it to the College Football Playoff (CFP).
Texas Longhorns’ Season Performance
Coach Steve Sarkisian has made a compelling case for the Longhorns as a playoff team. With a final season record of 9-3, they have powerful wins under their belt, including victories against three top-10 ranked teams.
Key Victories
- Defeated No. 3 Texas A&M Aggies
- Beat multiple top-10 ranked teams in the regular season
- Strong opening against Ohio State, despite a loss (14-7)
Future Prospects for the Playoff
Despite the impressive performance, the Longhorns face an uphill battle to qualify for the CFP. They currently sit at No. 16 in the rankings. To advance, several teams above them will need to lose in their upcoming championship games.
Challenges Ahead
The Longhorns’ playoff dreams hinge on:
- Maintaining a competitive edge against top opponents
- Relying on favorable outcomes in other conference games
Fans and Team Spirit
The team’s supporters expressed their elation with signs that underscored Texas’ dominance over the Aggies. Notably, one sign highlighted it had been 5,482 days since Texas A&M managed a victory against Texas. The excitement culminated alongside a spirited march by Aggies fans through downtown Austin.
Player Highlights
Quarterback Arch Manning proved pivotal in the win, scoring two second-half touchdowns. His 35-yard run exemplified the team’s resilience and skill, especially noteworthy as they outgained A&M significantly in the second half.
Defensive Standouts
The Texas defense also shined, with crucial interceptions in the red zone that thwarted the Aggies’ comeback attempts. Defensive backs Michael Taaffe and Kobe Black played significant roles in securing the victory.
Conclusion
The Longhorns believe they are playoff material. However, their journey to the CFP is fraught with challenges. As the season concludes and other teams compete in their championship games, the fate of the Longhorns will be determined. For now, they celebrate knocking the Aggies out of contention, setting the stage for an uncertain but hopeful postseason scenario.
