Asked Monday whether he believed his Longhorns deserve a place in the 12-team field, Sarkisian said he would address that if Texas beats No. 3 Texas A&M on Friday. 

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Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) yells in celebration after making an interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) yells in celebration after making an interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) catches a pass in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) catches a pass in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) warms up ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) warms up ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) runs the ball in for a touchdown after a reception in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) runs the ball in for a touchdown after a reception in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) tries to catch the ball but drops it during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Kani Walker (13) in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) tries to catch the ball but drops it during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Kani Walker (13) in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) and Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Kani Walker (13) fall after Livingstone fails to catch a pass in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) and Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Kani Walker (13) fall after Livingstone fails to catch a pass in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian talks to his team in the tunnel before they take the field ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian talks to his team in the tunnel before they take the field ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanUnited States Air Force flies in T38 jets over Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium during the National anthem at the start of an NCAA college football game Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

United States Air Force flies in T38 jets over Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium during the National anthem at the start of an NCAA college football game Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanThe Texas Longhorns play the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

The Texas Longhorns play the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) runs the ball in for a touchdown after catching a pass in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) runs the ball in for a touchdown after catching a pass in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas mascot Bevo is led into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas mascot Bevo is led into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) tries to catch the ball but drops it during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Kani Walker (13) in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) tries to catch the ball but drops it during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Kani Walker (13) in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) ccelebrates after he ran into the end zone for a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) ccelebrates after he ran into the end zone for a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanA pile of Texas Longhorns and Arkansas Razorbacks in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

A pile of Texas Longhorns and Arkansas Razorbacks in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) carries the ball out of the Arkansas defense in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) carries the ball out of the Arkansas defense in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) rushes Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) rushes Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanArkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) carries the ball in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) carries the ball in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) looks to get around defense from Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Kani Walker (13) in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) looks to get around defense from Arkansas Razorbacks defensive back Kani Walker (13) in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns tight end Jack Endries (88) dives to the ground after a reception in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns tight end Jack Endries (88) dives to the ground after a reception in the first quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) celebrates a touchdown in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) celebrates a touchdown in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanThe balls sails over the head of Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

The balls sails over the head of Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) celebrates in the end zone after a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) celebrates in the end zone after a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTeammates celebrate with Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) after his interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Teammates celebrate with Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) after his interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) embraces Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Connor Robertson (62) ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) embraces Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Connor Robertson (62) ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) walks the field ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) walks the field ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) rushes Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) rushes Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanBevo enters the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Bevo enters the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanLonghorn Feature Twirler Gracie Williams performs ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Longhorn Feature Twirler Gracie Williams performs ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanMembers of the Texas Marching Band ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Members of the Texas Marching Band ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns cheerleaders during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns cheerleaders during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns walk into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns walk into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanA young Texas fans cheers for the team ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

A young Texas fans cheers for the team ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanThe Longhorn Marching Band performs ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

The Longhorn Marching Band performs ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanArkansas Razorbacks quarterback Kj Jackson (7) goes down under Texas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Kj Jackson (7) goes down under Texas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Michael Taaffe (16) walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Michael Taaffe (16) walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) walks the field ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) walks the field ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian walks into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) celebrates in the end zone after a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) celebrates in the end zone after a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns band member performs outside of the Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium before an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns band member performs outside of the Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium before an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) yells in celebration after making an interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) yells in celebration after making an interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns Bevo XV makes his way into the Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium during before the Texas Longhorns head off against Arkansas Razorbacks NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns Bevo XV makes his way into the Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium during before the Texas Longhorns head off against Arkansas Razorbacks NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanIsaias Roman looks on as he waits for Texas Longhorns football team to make their way into Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium for the NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Isaias Roman looks on as he waits for Texas Longhorns football team to make their way into Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium for the NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Zina Umeozulu (19) and teammates watch a play review in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Zina Umeozulu (19) and teammates watch a play review in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanFans watch in the third quarter of the Texas Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025. 

Fans watch in the third quarter of the Texas Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025. 

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) scores a touchdown in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) scores a touchdown in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) is greeted by The Texas Cowboys as he makes his way into Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium to compete against Arkansas Razorbacks in an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) is greeted by The Texas Cowboys as he makes his way into Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium to compete against Arkansas Razorbacks in an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns Bevo XV makes his way into the Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium during before the Texas Longhorns head off against Arkansas Razorbacks NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns Bevo XV makes his way into the Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium during before the Texas Longhorns head off against Arkansas Razorbacks NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian makes his way into Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium before the NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian makes his way into Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium before the NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns fans wait for Bevo XV to make his way into Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium for an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns fans wait for Bevo XV to make his way into Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium for an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) warms up ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) warms up ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanUnited States Air Force flies in T38 jets over Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium during the National anthem at the start of an NCAA college football game Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

United States Air Force flies in T38 jets over Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium during the National anthem at the start of an NCAA college football game Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns linebacker Liona Lefau (18) chases Arkansas Razorbacks running back Mike Washington (4) in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns linebacker Liona Lefau (18) chases Arkansas Razorbacks running back Mike Washington (4) in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanThe ball slips through the fingers of Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

The ball slips through the fingers of Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian coaches in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian coaches in the second quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive lineman Maraad Watson (98) chase down Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive lineman Maraad Watson (98) chase down Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receivers Deandre Moore Jr. (0) and Emmett Mosley V (3) celebrates Moore’s touchdown in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receivers Deandre Moore Jr. (0) and Emmett Mosley V (3) celebrates Moore’s touchdown in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns fans cheer on the Texas Longhorns against Arkansas Razorbacks during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns fans cheer on the Texas Longhorns against Arkansas Razorbacks during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) drops during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks cornerback Jordan Young (4) in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) drops during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks cornerback Jordan Young (4) in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs into the end zone for a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs into the end zone for a touchdown during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns linebacker Trey Moore (8),Texas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) and Texas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) chase down Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns linebacker Trey Moore (8),Texas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) and Texas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) chase down Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green (10) during the first half of an NCAA college football game in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) tries to black the extra point during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Scott Starzyk (80) in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) tries to black the extra point during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks kicker Scott Starzyk (80) in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) catches the ball as he runs into the end zone during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) catches the ball as he runs into the end zone during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Jonah Williams (9) celebrates a 3rd down stop during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Jonah Williams (9) celebrates a 3rd down stop during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) looks for room to run during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks defense in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (5) looks for room to run during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Arkansas Razorbacks defense in Austin, Texas, Saturday, Nov. 22, 2025.

Ricardo B. Brazziell/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Emmett Mosley V (3) goes down surrounded by Arkansas defense in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Emmett Mosley V (3) goes down surrounded by Arkansas defense in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) runs the ball after making an interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) runs the ball after making an interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns tight end Jack Endries (88) celebrates a reception for a first down in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns tight end Jack Endries (88) celebrates a reception for a first down in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive tackle Travis Shaw (44) celebrates a play in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive tackle Travis Shaw (44) celebrates a play in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) watches a play review in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns defensive end Ethan Burke (91) watches a play review in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanArkansas Razorbacks quarterback Kj Jackson (7) throws a pass to a teammate in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Kj Jackson (7) throws a pass to a teammate in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) runs the ball in for a touchdown after catching a pass in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns wide receiver Deandre Moore Jr. (0) runs the ball in for a touchdown after catching a pass in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian looks at the scoreboard in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian looks at the scoreboard in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas Longhorns linebacker Liona Lefau (18) runs an interception in for a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns linebacker Liona Lefau (18) runs an interception in for a touchdown in the fourth quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTeammates celebrate with Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) after his interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Teammates celebrate with Texas Longhorns defensive back Jelani McDonald (4) after his interception in the third quarter of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-StatesmanTexas mascot Bevo is led into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas mascot Bevo is led into the stadium ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-Statesman

With a new rankings update set for release on Tuesday night, the Longhorns are still likely to be on the fringes of the discussion. Texas entered last week at No. 17. Though the two teams immediately above the Longhorns in the rankings, Georgia Tech and USC, both lost, Texas will probably have to make its way into the top 10 to earn an at-large spot in the field, factoring in the automatic bids that will be awarded to the Group of Five and the ACC. 

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian talks to his team in the tunnel before they take the field ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian talks to his team in the tunnel before they take the field ahead of the Longhorns’ game against the Arkansas Razorbacks at Darrell K Royal Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 22, 2025.

Sara Diggins/Austin American-Statesman

Sarkisian, though, said that he isn’t focused on doing any of that math right now. 

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“I think that would be a mistake of mine and our team and our staff to be worried about what it could mean (for the CFP),” Sarkisian said. “I think this game deserves all that it deserves. This is a great rivalry game. We’re playing an undefeated team in the Southeastern Conference, which is really hard to do. 

“That’s where our focus and energy is. That’s what we can control. And I think the moment you start putting energy into things that are out of your control, man, you miss what’s right in front of you.”

MORE: How the Longhorns used Arch Manning differently against Arkansas

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Texas football: Could there be two Goosby brothers on campus next season?

Longhorns left tackle Trevor Goosby said it made him emotional to watch his younger brother, Austin, announce his commitment earlier this month to play for Texas basketball. 

Trevor, a talented hooper in his own right, said he doesn’t play against his little brother anymore in order to safeguard his own pride. Maybe that’s for the best. Austin is the No. 25 overall prospect in the 2026 recruiting cycle and the fifth-ranked combo guard in the country. He’ll join Texas coach Sean Miller’s program for the 2026-27 campaign.

But will his big brother still be around?

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Some NFL draft experts project Trevor Goosby to be a first-round choice next spring. 

“We’ll have to see,” he said. “It makes it tough. We’ll have to weigh out the pros and cons.”

MORE: Why Longhorns appealed targeting call on Ty’Anthony Smith

Steve Sarkisian wants more discipline from Texas veterans 

The Texas defense is now approaching a month’s worth of poor play. The Longhorns gave up 35 points to Arkansas, the fourth consecutive game in which they’ve allowed a team to surpass the 30-point threshold. That happened twice during a 16-game 2024 campaign. 

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Sarkisian has often been keen to point out that the Longhorns are a young team when pressed about Texas’ various deficiencies. But Monday, he acknowledged that he needs more from his experienced players on the defensive side of the ball. 

“When you look at where some of our breakdowns occurred Saturday, it’s from really veteran players who have played high-level football for us,” Sarkisian said. “We just need to get them back playing within the scheme of the defense and playing within their capabilities. If we do that, we’ll be a lot better off than maybe we’ve been the last couple of weeks.” 

A handful of those veterans are simply trying to do too much, Sarkisian said. He speculated that his defenders might still be looking to make big plays to compensate for a struggling offense even though the Texas attack has ironed out most of its issues in recent weeks. 

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Solving that issue is mandatory if the Longhorns hope to leave Royal-Memorial Stadium with a win Friday. Texas A&M is the No. 3 offense in the SEC, averaging 38.1 points. Among the 12 teams on Texas’ schedule, only Vanderbilt has a more productive offense. 

“We don’t need to try harder on defense,” Sarkisian said. “We need to keep doing our job really well.”