This weekend, the Longhorns will look to prove their strength against a conference opponent. They travel to Knoxville for the first time in program history. The Volunteers have opened 2026 with a hot start and now rank No. 14 in the country.
Saturday’s X-Factors
To start, the Longhorns’ offensive line will be a key unit to watch. The group impressed against Ohio State but struggled against UTSA. Tennessee’s defensive front, meanwhile, has consistently created pressure in its early matchups. The Volunteers have not faced a strong schedule, with their best win coming against a 1-2 Georgia Tech team. Still, they bring SEC size and physicality up front.
If the Longhorns want to sustain drives on Saturday, the offensive line must create movement and give the offense room to operate.
Next, you have to look at quarterback. Arch Manning struggled with consistency against UTSA. Several of his passes sailed over his receivers. He will need to improve his accuracy as Texas enters conference play. He will also need help from his receivers, who dropped several passes in the Ohio State game.
If Manning completes around 60 or even 65 percent of his passes against the Volunteers, Texas should put itself in a strong position. If he again finishes around 50 percent, however, the Longhorns could have a difficult afternoon.
Finally, Texas must contain Tennessee’s rushing attack. Keep an eye on the Longhorns’ linebackers. The group has plenty of experience among its starters, but its depth remains a concern.
The linebackers also struggled in coverage against Ohio State two weeks ago. This weekend, they will face a freshman quarterback who has played efficiently but has not needed to throw the ball often. That could give the group an opportunity to bounce back against an inexperienced passer.
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