Texas faces Tennessee in high-stakes SEC matchup

No. 1 Texas is set to face No. 14 Tennessee in a high-profile SEC matchup at Neyland Stadium on Saturday, September 26, 2026. Both teams enter the contest with 3-0 records, marking a significant opening for their conference schedules.

Texas quarterback Arch Manning faces scrutiny following a performance against UTSA where analysts noted issues with accuracy, footwork, and processing. Despite these concerns, Manning remains a key figure in the game, especially as he makes his first visit to Knoxville, the site of his uncle Peyton Manning’s collegiate success. Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian has emphasized the team's preparation for the hostile, loud environment expected at Neyland Stadium.

The matchup is part of an unprecedented SEC slate featuring multiple games between ranked opponents. ESPN’s Football Prediction Index (FPI) gives Texas a 70% chance of victory. The game will be broadcast on ABC and featured on ESPN’s College GameDay.