Paul Finebaum believes Texas will win its first-ever SEC title in 2026.
Finebaum expressed that opinion — and overall optimism in Steve Sarkisian — during a guest appearance with Crain & Cone this week.
“I know it’s easy to say and we all say it, but I do think this is Sarkisian’s year,” Finebaum said when asked if he would “buy or sell” Georgia as the SEC’s 2026 champs.
Here’s a clip of Finebaum’s comments:
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Finebaum is not alone in thinking Texas should be the favorite to win the SEC this season. On prediction markets like Kalshi, Texas and Georgia are at the top of the odds board as the 2026 season approaches:
Texans returns quarterback Arch Manning, who will enter 2026 among the top favorites to win the Heisman Trophy. Manning is gearing up for his second season as UT’s starter after leading the Longhorns to a 9-3 campaign last season.
Texas was also aggressive in the transfer portal this offseason, adding key offensive playmakers such as Cam Coleman, Hollywood Smothers and Raleek Brown. The Longhorns will be hoping to make it back to the College Football Playoff in 2026 after missing last season.
Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.
