In Austin, the Texas Longhorns are shaping a new offensive identity around senior quarterback Arch Manning as they aim to return to the College Football Playoff. After a 10-3 record in 2025 that fell short of national title expectations, head coach Steve Sarkisian has leaned heavily on transfers and experienced players to give the team a stronger start this season.
Offensive upgrades
The most notable addition is transfer wide receiver Cam Coleman, who arrived from Auburn after being one of the most sought‑after players in the transfer portal. Coleman provides a deep‑threat option that complements the speed of sophomore receiver Ryan Wingo, who logged 834 receiving yards and seven touchdowns last season. Together, they are expected to replicate the production of former standouts Xavier Worthy and A.D. Mitchell, whose play helped Texas reach the CFP semifinals in 2023.
Running back depth has also improved with the arrivals of Raleek Brown from Arizona State and Hollywood Smothers from North Carolina State. Both bring experience and a proven ability to move the ball between the tackles, giving Manning additional options in the ground game.
Defensive outlook
On defense, senior edge rusher Colin Simmons returns as a premier pass‑rusher, entering the season with 21 career sacks and a reputation as a game‑changing player. Inside, defensive tackle Hero Kanu anchors the line, while transfer linebacker Rasheem Biles from Pitt adds versatility after recording 100 tackles and 4.5 sacks last year.
The secondary faces a rebuilding year after losing cover corner Malik Muhammad and All‑American safety Michael Taaffe to the NFL draft. New defensive coordinator Will Muschamp, who previously served as Texas’ defensive coordinator from 2008‑2010 and most recently worked on Kirby Smart’s staff at Georgia, will be tasked with reshaping the back end.
Key games ahead
Texas’ schedule features several early tests that could determine the season’s trajectory. In Week 2, the Longhorns host top‑ranked Ohio State in Austin, a matchup that will test the revamped offense and defense alike. The Longhorns also open SEC play at Tennessee on September 26, followed by games against Oklahoma, LSU, and Texas A&M later in the year.
Success in these contests will be crucial for Manning’s Heisman Trophy aspirations. He threw for 26 touchdowns in 2025 and, with a deeper receiving corps and improved running backs, could once again become a national contender if Texas secures big wins early.
Looking ahead
While the Longhorns have addressed several roster gaps, the team must avoid the early‑season stumbles that derailed last year’s playoff hopes. Fans and alumni in Austin and across Texas will be watching closely as the season unfolds, hoping the combination of veteran leadership and fresh talent can restore Texas to the elite tier of college football.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
