Steve Sarkisian’s side of the chessboard is looking sparse. 

Entering Saturday’s game against Arkansas, only two turns remained for Texas football to somehow arrange its few remaining pieces in a manner that might help the three-loss Longhorns crack the College Football Playoff. 

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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

As the clock ran out Saturday, Sarkisian chose rest over blind aggression. 

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.

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-Statesman

“I was trying to get guys out of there,” Sarkisian said after the Longhorns’ 52-37 victory over the Razorbacks. “We’re on a short week, and we needed to be as healthy as we could be.” 

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The Longhorns (8-3, 5-2 SEC) lose a day of rest this week with a rivalry week matchup against Texas A&M (11-0, 7-0) set for 6:30 p.m. Friday. 

With that in mind, Sarkisian began filtering his defensive starters out of the game early in the fourth quarter after Liona Lefau’s 52-yard fumble return touchdown put Texas up 52-23 and erased any doubt about the game’s outcome. Backup quarterback Matthew Caldwell entered the game for starter Arch Manning with around four minutes to go. 

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The Razorbacks used garbage time to rehabilitate the scoreline to a degree. Backup quarterback KJ Jackson scrambled for a touchdown with 7:45 on the clock, then threw another TD with 15 seconds remaining.

In Week 3, that 14-0 Arkansas spurt would hold almost no consequence. But with the Longhorns facing a desperate situation as they hunt for a place in the College Football Playoff, could style points matter?

Miami, in a similar position, seemed to think so. Holding a 10-point lead over Virginia Tech with 20 seconds left Saturday, the Hurricanes dialed up a 20-yard touchdown pass to Malachi Toney to pump up their margin of victory. 

Sarkisian took a different approach, instead attempting to put his team in the best position possible to win next week. There is no CFP case for the Longhorns unless they upset the No. 3 Aggies at Royal-Memorial Stadium. 

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And, as Sarkisian was keen to point out, the schedule put Texas in a weak position. While Texas A&M hosted FCS Samford — and pulled its starters early in the second quarter — the Longhorns played an SEC game. Arkansas (2-9, 0-7) is the worst team in the league by record, but had dropped five of its six conference games by one score coming into this week’s action. 

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“We didn’t have the luxury of playing a game where everybody kind of knew the outcome before the game,” Sarkisian said. “We had to play tonight. And so as quickly as we could get guys out, we did, to protect them.” 

At the time of this writing, the 17th-ranked Longhorns hadn’t gotten much help in their quest to surge up the CFP food chain. No. 7 Oregon beat No. 15 USC, but that was the only loss suffered by a ranked team during the morning and afternoon slates. 

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Might the selection committee find value in the Longhorns’ 15-point win over the frisky-but-faulty Razorbacks? DeAndre Moore Jr., who caught three touchdown passes, indicated he believed the Longhorns had done their job. 

Asked postgame if there was any temptation to run up the score, Moore responded with a question of his own.

“What was the score?” he said. 

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When the 52-37 score line was relayed back to him, he replied with a nod and a smile.