The 2026 season has yet to kick off, but bets on Texas to capture the CFP National Championship are already pouring in.
It's only April but discussion around the next champion in college football has already begun. Several teams have risen to the top of the prospective pool of favorites.
One betting site has even opened their market for people who feel like they have the season all figured out. Kalshi unveiled the results of these early bets on X, with few teams drawing most of the eyes - and money - from bettors.
This elite group includes defending champion Indiana, Ohio State, Notre Dame and none other than the Texas Longhorns.
Not only are the Longhorns listed amongst the early favorites, they lead the field with 13 percent of the bets.
The aforementioned trio of teams followed narrowly behind at 11 percent. Other notable numbers include SEC foes Georgia and Texas A&M, who came in at 7 and 4 percent, respectively.
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It may seem odd for Texas to be in the prime position after not even making the College Football Playoff last season. However, the Longhorns are no stranger to the CFP with two previous semifinal appearances and surged late last year to still have a chance at a third straight trip.
While last season could be seen as a disappointment, it provided the team with valuable experience that could make a difference this year. Alongside their veterans, Texas hit the transfer portal heavily to reload and ensure they are not left out of the postseason again.
High-level pieces coming together this season for the Longhorns include returning quarterback Arch Manning and transfer wide receiver Cam Coleman, who is making the jump from Auburn. These moves are apparently impressive enough for outsiders to risk their money on the team without even seeing a down on the field.
Granted, these numbers truly mean nothing when it comes to on-the-field action. Just look at last season. Texas entered the season as the Associated Press' No. 1 team in its Top 25 poll and didn't even qualify for the CFP.
Much like this AP rankings, these odds may not have an impact on who hoists the trophy, but they can definitely shape expectations for the team. Head coach Steve Sarkisian is no stranger to lofty goals, especially in the Longhorns' last three seasons, and will look to finally take the next step in his time with Texas.
The season still has to play out this fall, but so far it appears that whatever Texas is selling, people are buying.