The finish line of a four-team race for a spot in the SEC championship game is in sight, but three of the four remaining contenders face road conference rivalry games during the final week of the regular season. 

No. 3 Texas A&M travels to play the No. 16 Texas Longhorns in Friday’s Lone Star Showdown, needing a win to book its spot in Atlanta. Alabama also controls its own destiny, but is facing a trip to Jordan-Hare Stadium to play Auburn. Ole Miss, which needs some help to crack its first-ever SEC title game, heads to Starkville to play Mississippi State. 

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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

That leaves Georgia, which has completed its SEC schedule but plays a challenging road game of its own Friday at Georgia Tech. 

Let’s set the stage for the final week of regular-season action by updating our power rankings.

1. Texas A&M 

Amid a season that has shrugged aside Texas A&M’s mediocre mythology at every turn, the Aggies now confront the final boss. Texas awaits the Aggies in Austin, where many promising A&M campaigns have died painful deaths. That won’t be the case this year — the Aggies are shoo-ins for the College Football Playoff regardless of Friday’s outcome. But losing out on an SEC title game appearance at the hands of their hated rivals would certainly sting. 

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Last week: No. 1, beat Samford 48-0

MORE: Texas A&M players haven’t forgotten loss to UT and Horns’ celebration

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Texas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (26) carries the ball as Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Albert Regis (17) makes the tackle in the second quarter of the Lone Star Showdown game at Kyle Field in College Station, Nov. 30, 2024.

Texas Longhorns running back Quintrevion Wisner (26) carries the ball as Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Albert Regis (17) makes the tackle in the second quarter of the Lone Star Showdown game at Kyle Field in College Station, Nov. 30, 2024.

Sara Diggins/American-Statesman, NAAS

2. Georgia 

The Bulldogs need help elsewhere in order to crack the SEC championship game for a fifth consecutive season. But they’ll need to channel all their attention toward beating a Georgia Tech team that pushed them to their limit last season in Athens. Both programs are ranked heading into this matchup for the first time since 2014.

Last week: No. 2, beat Charlotte 35-3 

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This week: at Georgia Tech 

3. Ole Miss 

Unlike the CFP selection committee, we won’t be dropping the Rebels because their coach is actively pursuing a pair of jobs elsewhere. Still, it’s worth monitoring how the feverish speculation surrounding Lane Kiffin’s future will impact Ole Miss this week in the Egg Bowl, a rivalry game infused with as much passion and hatred as any other clash in the country.

Last week: No. 3, did not play 

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This week: at Mississippi State 

4. Oklahoma 

The Oklahoma defense has forced eight turnovers in the last three weeks on its way to three consecutive ranked victories. The Sooners have been outgained in all three of those contests, which raises questions about the sustainability of their success. But they’re almost at the finish line, with just a home game against a bad LSU team standing between them and a likely place in the CFP. 

Last week: No. 4, beat Missouri 17-6

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MORE: Arch Manning. Marcel Reed face elite pass rushes in Lone Star Showdown

5. Alabama 

Matt Stahl, a Crimson Tide beat reporter at AL.com, bought ghost-hunting equipment to conduct research on what paranormal activity may or may not be happening at Jordan-Hare Stadium, where Alabama must travel this week. Weird things happen to the Crimson Tide in Auburn, and a loss there this year would be particularly haunting, considering it would likely eliminate Alabama from the CFP discussion. 

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Last week: No. 5, beat Eastern Illinois 56-0 

6. Vanderbilt 

Diego Pavia has given the Commodores more than their fans could have possibly imagined since he transferred to Vandy before the beginning of last season. If the Heisman candidate can lead Vanderbilt to its first win over Tennessee since 2018, he’ll put the Commodores firmly on the CFP bubble heading into championship week. 

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Last week: No. 6, beat Kentucky 45-17 

This week: at Tennessee 

7. Tennessee 

How invested are the Vols in ruining the playoff hopes of their in-state rivals? The Commodores are typically the team playing spoiler in this rivalry dynamic, but Tennessee doesn’t have much else to play for with three losses and no ranked wins. This should be one of the most exciting games of the season, featuring two of the 10 highest-scoring teams in the country. 

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Last week: No. 7, beat Florida 31-11

This week: vs. Vanderbilt 

8. Texas 

Arch Manning has transformed a season that began as a disappointment into something approaching a success. Averaging 328 passing yards in his last four games, he can erase the memory of his bad start to the season with a win over the undefeated Aggies. If the Longhorns can pull off the upset, it would give the committee a difficult decision. Texas has three losses, but a win over A&M would give Steve Sarkisian’s team three top-10 wins, too. 

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Last week: No. 8, beat Arkansas 52-37

This week: vs. Texas A&M 

MORE: How Longhorns have fared in Lone Star Showdown as underdogs

9. Missouri 

The return of quarterback Beau Pribula didn’t do much to energize the Tigers’ offense, which failed to find the end zone against Oklahoma. After a 5-0 start, coach Eliah Drinkwitz’s team has dropped four of its last six games, as his name continues to circulate in discussions for other open jobs. 

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Last week: No. 9, lost to Oklahoma 17-6

10. LSU 

It seems like everybody in the state of Louisiana is in on the Tigers’ pursuit of Lane Kiffin, from Gov. Jeff Landry to women’s basketball coach Kim Mulkey to Southeast Louisiana coach Frank Scelfo. A 13-10 home victory over Western Kentucky last week indicates that maybe the Tigers’ players have their focus elsewhere, too. 

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Last week: No. 10, beat Western Kentucky 13-10

11. Mississippi State 

The last time Ole Miss found itself embroiled in speculation about Lane Kiffin’s future, Mississippi State rolled up to Oxford and beat the Rebels 24-22. This time the Rebels have to go to Starkville. The Bulldogs aren’t perfect, but they’re certainly good enough to capitalize if Ole Miss doesn’t turn up focused. A win Friday would give Mississippi State bowl eligibility for the first time since 2022, too. 

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Last week: No. 12, did not play 

This week: vs. Ole Miss 

12. Auburn 

It looked like Auburn could be headed for an embarrassing afternoon when Mercer, an FCS program, played the Tigers to a 14-14 stalemate through one quarter. But Auburn outpaced Mercer 48-3 the rest of the way, led by a remarkable showing from true freshman quarterback Deuce Knight, who passed for 239 yards, ran for 162 yards and scored six total touchdowns. 

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Last week: No. 13, beat Mercer 62-17 

13. Kentucky 

A 28-point throttling from Vanderbilt derailed what had been a solid month of progress for the Wildcats, who won three straight games before the Commodores stopped them in their tracks. Now, a rivalry game at Louisville is the last chance for Mark Stoops and his team to earn bowl eligibility. 

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Last week: No. 11, lost to Vanderbilt 45-17

This week: at Louisville 

14. Florida 

A no-show performance at home against Tennessee added to a long line of embarrassments endured by the Gators and their fans in 2025. Florida didn’t score until there was 2:04 remaining in the third quarter, putting the NCAA’s longest scoring streak in jeopardy. If there’s one thing the Gators can salvage from this season, it’s their record of 472 games without being shut out. 

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Last week: No. 14, lost to Tennessee 31-11

This week: vs. Florida State 

15. South Carolina 

Is there a rivalry week matchup that harbors more mutual disappointment than the Palmetto Bowl between South Carolina and Clemson? The Gamecocks and Tigers hold 10 wins between them after starting the season at Nos. 13 and 4 in the AP Poll, respectively. The Gamecocks won’t be playing postseason football in 2025, but they do have a chance to claim consecutive wins over the Tigers for the first time since 2013. 

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Last week: No. 15, beat Coastal Carolina 51-7 

16. Arkansas 

Bobby Petrino has one last chance to get a win during his tenure as Arkansas’ interim head coach. One of college football’s top offensive minds, Petrino has the Razorbacks’ attack humming, but Arkansas has given up over 39 points, on average, in its last nine games. Missouri looks vulnerable, but pulling off a rivalry upset will likely require Arkansas’ best defensive showing of the year. 

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Last week: No. 16, lost to Texas 52-37

This week: vs. MissouriÂ