{"id":117688,"date":"2026-01-10T02:56:14","date_gmt":"2026-01-10T02:56:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/117688\/"},"modified":"2026-01-10T02:56:14","modified_gmt":"2026-01-10T02:56:14","slug":"why-longhorns-arent-retaining-hs-recruits","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/117688\/","title":{"rendered":"Why Longhorns aren&#8217;t retaining HS recruits"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>The 2012 <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/hookem\/football\/\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Texas football<\/a> recruiting class, 29\u00a0signees strong, included six players who would go on to wear another school\u2019s colors across their chests.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn-channels-pixel.ex.co\/events\/0012000001fxZm9AAE?integrationType=DEFAULT&amp;template=design%2Farticle%2Fplatypus_two_column.tpl\" alt=\"\" class=\"x1px y1px vh abs\" aria-hidden=\"true\" width=\"1\" height=\"1\"\/><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/google.com\/search?q=mack+brown+statesman&amp;rlz=1C1ONGR_enUS1160US1160&amp;oq=mack+brown+statesman&amp;gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOTIJCAEQABgNGIAEMggIAhAAGBYYHjIICAMQABgWGB4yCAgEEAAYFhgeMggIBRAAGBYYHjIICAYQABgWGB4yCAgHEAAYFhgeMggICBAAGBYYHjIICAkQABgWGB7SAQgyMzczajBqNKgCALACAA&amp;sourceid=chrome&amp;ie=UTF-8\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Mack Brown<\/a>, the championship-winning coach who signed that class, resigned after the 2013 season. Still, the retention numbers reflect a bygone era when NCAA rules disincentivized player movement.<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty'Anthony Smith (26) lifts the trophy with head coach Steve Sarkisianas the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"eager\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty&#8217;Anthony Smith (26) lifts the trophy with head coach Steve Sarkisianas the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) eats a Cheez-It encrusted turkey leg as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) eats a Cheez-It encrusted turkey leg as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Kaliq Lockett (7) catches a 30-yard pass from Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) to score in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns wide receiver Kaliq Lockett (7) catches a 30-yard pass from Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) to score in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball 6- yard to score in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball 6- yard to score in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Prince Chedward pours Cheez-Its into the mouth of Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Brandon Baker (73) as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Prince Chedward pours Cheez-Its into the mouth of Texas Longhorns offensive lineman Brandon Baker (73) as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) looks for a pass in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) looks for a pass in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns tight end Jack Endries (88) catches a pass to score in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns tight end Jack Endries (88) catches a pass to score in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) holds the ball as he is surrounded by Michigan defense in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) holds the ball as he is surrounded by Michigan defense in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Michigan Wolverines tight end Marlin Klein (17) jumps for a pass as Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty'Anthony Smith (26) rushes to defend in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Michigan Wolverines tight end Marlin Klein (17) jumps for a pass as Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty&#8217;Anthony Smith (26) rushes to defend in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Daylan McCutcheon (17) carries the Texas flag as the Longhorns ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns wide receiver Daylan McCutcheon (17) carries the Texas flag as the Longhorns ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive back Kobe Black (6) collides with Michigan Wolverines running back Bryson Kuzdzal (24) in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive back Kobe Black (6) collides with Michigan Wolverines running back Bryson Kuzdzal (24) in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) goes down under the Michigan defense in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) goes down under the Michigan defense in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns celebrate with Prince Chedward after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns celebrate with Prince Chedward after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"The ball is knocked from the grasp of Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The ball is knocked from the grasp of Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) celebrates a first down gain in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) celebrates a first down gain in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Michigan Wolverines defensive back Elijah Dotson (22) runs down the field as the ball is kicked off in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Michigan Wolverines defensive back Elijah Dotson (22) runs down the field as the ball is kicked off in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Michigan Wolverines quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) throws a pass in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Michigan Wolverines quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) throws a pass in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive back Kade Phillips (11) dives to try to block a pass heading for Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Donaven McCulley (1) in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive back Kade Phillips (11) dives to try to block a pass heading for Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Donaven McCulley (1) in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) heads to locker room after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) heads to locker room after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"A member of the Longhorn Marching Band wears a Cheez-It hat in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A member of the Longhorn Marching Band wears a Cheez-It hat in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian walks into the stadium ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian walks into the stadium ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas players eat Cheez-It encrusted turkey legs as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas players eat Cheez-It encrusted turkey legs as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Wingo (1) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) is crowned by Prince Chedward as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) is crowned by Prince Chedward as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Fans cast shadows on a \u201cCheez-it\u201d tunnel ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025. The snack brand is the premiere sponsor of the bowl game.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Fans cast shadows on a \u201cCheez-it\u201d tunnel ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025. The snack brand is the premiere sponsor of the bowl game.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) walks into the stadium ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) walks into the stadium ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"The Texas cheer team enter the stadium ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>The Texas cheer team enter the stadium ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas takes the field ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas takes the field ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Prince Chedward entertains the crowd in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl between the Texas Longhorns and the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Prince Chedward entertains the crowd in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl between the Texas Longhorns and the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) hands his gloves to young fans as he warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns wide receiver Parker Livingstone (13) hands his gloves to young fans as he warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) greets young fans he heads to the locker room after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) greets young fans he heads to the locker room after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"A fan films the team as they walk into the stadium ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A fan films the team as they walk into the stadium ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive back Jordon Johnson-Rubell (23) tackles Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Kendrick Bell (10) in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive back Jordon Johnson-Rubell (23) tackles Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Kendrick Bell (10) in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas mascot Bevo on the sidelines ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas mascot Bevo on the sidelines ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns the ball as Michigan Wolverines tight end Zack Marshall (83) arrives to defend in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns the ball as Michigan Wolverines tight end Zack Marshall (83) arrives to defend in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Karle &quot;Kj&quot; Lacey Jr. (8) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Karle &#8220;Kj&#8221; Lacey Jr. (8) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive end Lance Jackson (40) blocks Michigan Wolverines offensive lineman Brady Norton (70) in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive end Lance Jackson (40) blocks Michigan Wolverines offensive lineman Brady Norton (70) in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Karle &quot;Kj&quot; Lacey Jr. (8) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Karle &#8220;Kj&#8221; Lacey Jr. (8) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian is crowned by Prince Chedward as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian is crowned by Prince Chedward as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Karle &quot;Kj&quot; Lacey Jr. (8) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Karle &#8220;Kj&#8221; Lacey Jr. (8) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) runs through an attempt from Michigan Wolverines defensive back Brandyn Hillman (6) in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) runs through an attempt from Michigan Wolverines defensive back Brandyn Hillman (6) in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) celebrates a sack in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive end Colin Simmons (1) celebrates a sack in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) runs the ball in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) runs the ball in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Kendrick Bell (10) catches a pass in the end zone to score as Texas Longhorns defensive back Kobe Black (6) defends in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Michigan Wolverines wide receiver Kendrick Bell (10) catches a pass in the end zone to score as Texas Longhorns defensive back Kobe Black (6) defends in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) sends a pass in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) sends a pass in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Emmett Mosley V (3) gets around Michigan Wolverines linebacker Chase Taylor (29) in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns wide receiver Emmett Mosley V (3) gets around Michigan Wolverines linebacker Chase Taylor (29) in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Michigan Wolverines tight end Marlin Klein (17) jumps for a pass as Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty'Anthony Smith (26) rushes to defend in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Michigan Wolverines tight end Marlin Klein (17) jumps for a pass as Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty&#8217;Anthony Smith (26) rushes to defend in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) defends as Michigan Wolverines quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) runs the ball in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive back Graceson Littleton (29) defends as Michigan Wolverines quarterback Bryce Underwood (19) runs the ball in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Michigan Wolverines defensive lineman Ikechukwu Iwunnah (92) grabs the face mask of Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Michigan Wolverines defensive lineman Ikechukwu Iwunnah (92) grabs the face mask of Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Prince Chedward throws Cheez-Its at players as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Prince Chedward throws Cheez-Its at players as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Cheez-Its decorate the field as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Cheez-Its decorate the field as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian is crowned by Prince Chedward as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian is crowned by Prince Chedward as the Longhorns celebrate after winning the Citrus Bowl 41-27 against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"A scrum forms around the ball in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl between the Texas Longhorns and the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A scrum forms around the ball in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl between the Texas Longhorns and the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) puts an arm out to stop a tackle from Michigan Wolverines defensive back Zeke Berry (10) in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns running back Christian Clark (6) puts an arm out to stop a tackle from Michigan Wolverines defensive back Zeke Berry (10) in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive back Kade Phillips (11) celebrates a play in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive back Kade Phillips (11) celebrates a play in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"A Michigan fan reacts as a touchdown goes to review in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Texas Longhorns at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>A Michigan fan reacts as a touchdown goes to review in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Texas Longhorns at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive end Brad Spence (14) and the Texas defense in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive end Brad Spence (14) and the Texas defense in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty'Anthony Smith (26) celebrates an interception in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty&#8217;Anthony Smith (26) celebrates an interception in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball 6- yard to score in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball 6- yard to score in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns kicker Mason Shipley (49) scores a 51-yard field goal in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns kicker Mason Shipley (49) scores a 51-yard field goal in the fourth quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive tackle Hero Kanu (93) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive tackle Hero Kanu (93) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball in for a 23-yard touchdown in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) runs the ball in for a 23-yard touchdown in the third quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns linebacker Marshall Landwehr (51) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns linebacker Marshall Landwehr (51) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty'Anthony Smith (26) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns linebacker Ty&#8217;Anthony Smith (26) warms up ahead of the Citrus Bowl against the Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) catches a snap in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning (16) catches a snap in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns defensive back Xavier Filsaime (17) lines up in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns defensive back Xavier Filsaime (17) lines up in the first quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<img alt=\"Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns the ball in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 2\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofct bgsct block bg-black mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns wide receiver Ryan Niblett (21) returns the ball in the second quarter of the Citrus Bowl against the Michigan Wolverines at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, Dec. 31, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n<p>Jump ahead only a decade, and the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/college\/longhorns\/football\/article\/texas-football-ncaa-transfer-portal-sec-21284393.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">transfer portal<\/a>\u2019s impact bursts off the page. As of Friday afternoon, 18 of the 28 players Texas coach <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/columns\/article\/steve-sarkisian-texas-football-cfp-2026-21265951.php\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Steve\u00a0Sarkisian<\/a> signed in his 2022 recruiting class were either in the transfer portal or already on somebody else\u2019s roster. That\u2019s over 64% of the class.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><img alt=\"Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian winces during the first quarter of the Lone Star Showdown, the rivalry match-up between the Longhorns and Texas A&amp;M Aggies at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 28, 2025.\" loading=\"lazy\"   style=\"aspect-ratio:3 \/ 4\" class=\"x100 y100 opc bgpc ofcv bgscv block bg-gray200 mnh0px fill\"\/><\/p>\n<p>Texas Longhorns head coach Steve Sarkisian winces during the first quarter of the Lone Star Showdown, the rivalry match-up between the Longhorns and Texas A&amp;M Aggies at Darrell K Royal\u2013Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Nov. 28, 2025.<\/p>\n<p>Sara Diggins\/Austin American-Statesman<\/p>\n<p>That recruiting cycle shines the harshest light on an emerging trend: The Longhorns aren\u2019t retaining their high school recruits. Since Sarkisian took charge of the program after the 2020 season, roughly 46% of the high school players to sign with Texas are currently in the transfer portal or are on a different roster.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/college\/longhorns\/football\/article\/texas-longhorns-football-transfer-portal-21260849.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">PORTAL TRACKER: Who&#8217;s in the transfer portal, who&#8217;s declared for NFL draft<\/a><\/p>\n<p>And this is at a program that, since 2021, has avoided the complete roster makeovers that almost always accompany coaching changes. A program that has posted a 48-20 record under Sarkisian. A program that wants to win with high school prospects first, rather than acquiring most of its talent through the transfer portal.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>\u201cI\u2019m just not of the mindset of living there,\u201d Sarkisian said in late October. \u201cWe do portal recruit, but I just think it\u2019s really hard to recreate our culture every year when you\u2019re bringing in 30 new faces from other schools who have learned a certain way.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>Roster retention is not a Texas-specific problem. There are four other SEC programs that have the same head coach now as they did when Sarkisian was hired.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>The only one of those programs retaining a greater percentage of its high school recruits is Georgia, which has seen 37% of its signees from the last five cycles head for the transfer portal. For South Carolina, that number is 48%. Tennessee and Missouri are both sending more than half of their\u00a0signees the portal\u2019s way, with the Vols losing 52% of their recruits and the Tigers losing 61%.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/sports\/college\/longhorns\/football\/article\/texas-longhorns-college-football-playoff-bracket-21279419.php\" data-link=\"native\" rel=\"noopener nofollow\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"\">MORE: 1 lesson the Longhorns can take from each team in CFP semifinals<\/a><\/p>\n<p>The players aren\u2019t the only ones instigating these moves. At South Carolina, which gave up an SEC-high 3.5 sacks per game, there were nine defections from the offensive line alone as of Friday afternoon. Gamecocks coach Shane Beamer implied during a press conference Sunday that he and his staff nudged some of those players out the door.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWe knew we needed to get better,\u201d Beamer told reporters. \u201cLook, it is what it is. When you go 4-8, I think we gave up 43 sacks; it\u2019s hard to say we played great up front. It is what it is.\u201d\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>Many coaches, including Sarkisian and Georgia\u2019s <a href=\"https:\/\/www.statesman.com\/story\/sports\/college\/longhorns\/football\/2025\/07\/15\/georgia-coach-kirby-smart-questions-new-sec-football-rule\/85212617007\/\" data-link=\"native\" class=\"\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" target=\"_blank\">Kirby Smart<\/a>, have railed against a system that incentivizes players to leave when they believe they can find more playing time or more money \u2014 or both \u2014 at a different institution.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p>At Texas, in particular, the vast majority of transfer portal entrants are depth options and developmental players. Of the 22 Longhorns listed in the portal as of Friday afternoon, only three were regular starters in 2025.\u00a0<\/p>\n<p class=\"uiTextSmall f aic jcc\">Article continues below this ad<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWe\u2019ve got players on our roster right now who are highly recruited, very good football players, who are in the developmental stage of their career,\u201d Sarkisian said in November. \u201cWell, the family back home, or the agent representing him, or the high school coach doesn\u2019t know that. He\u2019s just saying Billy\u2019s not playing. I need to find a home where they\u2019re going to go play him.\u201d<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"The 2012 Texas football recruiting class, 29\u00a0signees strong, included six players who would go on to wear another&hellip;\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":117689,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[6],"tags":[27,29,537,536,28],"class_list":["post-117688","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-texas","tag-texas","tag-texas-headlines","tag-texas-longhorns","tag-texas-longhorns-football","tag-texas-news"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/117688","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=117688"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/117688\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/117689"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=117688"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=117688"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/us-tx\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=117688"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}