Entering Week 12, it looked like the Texas Longhorns had a chance to reach the College Football playoff with a 9-3 record. Oklahoma’s victory over Alabama may have thrown a wrench in those plans. Regardless, the Longhorns will have no shot at the CFP if they go 8-4, meaning this weekend’s game with Arkansas is a de facto playoff contest.
The Razorbacks (2-8, 0-6 SEC) have not beaten a Power 4 foe this season. Their offense, behind offensive coordinator/interim head coach Bobby Petrino and quarterback Taylen Green, has the firepower to put up points if the Longhorns’ defense overlooks them. Greg McElroy believes Texas will win this game, though, on the back of Arch Manning’s unit.
“I think this could be a game where the offense really gets going for the Longhorns,” McElroy said on the Always College Football podcast. “They could hit their stride. I’ll take the ‘Horns at home in a bounce-back situation, but I would not be surprised that this game is a bit uncomfortable through the first 2… [to] 3 quarters.”
Steve Sarkisian and Co. have the 22nd-best CFP odds (7.1%) in the country, according to ESPN’s Football Power Index. The Longhorns will need help in order to sneak into the bracket, but they must help themselves first by winning if they want to do so. Saturday’s kickoff between Arkansas and Texas is set for 3:30 p.m. E.T. on ABC.
Looking to wager on Arkansas and Texas? Check out prediction market Kalshi to put money on the winner of the game!
