A Major Hint About Texas’ 2026 Ceiling Just Dropped

Texas football is already carrying monster expectations into 2026, and On3 just poured gasoline on the hype.

In Chris Low’s preseason SEC Power Ranking, the Longhorns sit at No. 1, ahead of Georgia, Ole Miss, Oklahoma and Texas A&M.

READ MORE: Texas Longhorns Rally Late vs. Oregon to Reach Men's College World Series

Low’s confidence starts with Steve Sarkisian’s roster, which may be the deepest and most dangerous group Texas has brought into a season since joining the SEC.

“This could be Steve Sarkisian’s most talented team yet. He told On3 this spring that it was the first time he’s had top-level talent across the board, position by position, on both sides of the ball.” - On3’s Chris Low

That’s the kind of statement that changes the temperature around Austin.

Texas has recruited like a national title contender, stacked speed at the skill spots and added enough defensive muscle to look like a legitimate SEC bully.

Of course, everything still runs through Arch Manning.

The Longhorns quarterback enters his second season as the starter, and the expectations are enormous after he settled in late during the 2025 season.

“Quarterback Arch Manning returns in his second season as the starter. He rebounded nicely after a rough start a year ago and could be the top pick in the 2027 NFL draft.” - On3’s Chris Low

Manning should also have more help. Portal prize Cam Coleman gives Texas another explosive weapon, and Sarkisian’s offense is built to punish defenses that overcommit.

The defensive side may be just as interesting. Low pointed directly to the arrival of Will Muschamp as a major swing piece.

READ MORE: SEC Offensive Line Rankings: Where's Texas?

“Texas’ most important offseason acquisition might have been veteran defensive coordinator Will Muschamp.” - On3’s Chris Low

For Texas, the message is clear: anything short of an SEC title run will feel light.

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