The upcoming Citrus Bowl between the No. 18 Michigan Wolverines and the No. 13 Texas Longhorns is shaping up to be a highly anticipated matchup, set to kick off at 3 p.m. ET on December 31 at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida. This meeting marks a rematch from last season when Texas defeated Michigan 31-12, leading them on a journey to the College Football Playoff. Despite starting the 2023 season ranked No. 1, Texas did not make the Playoff this year, while Michigan’s chances evaporated following their loss to Ohio State.
Both teams are eager to compete. Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian highlighted the importance of this opportunity, expressing that the game holds significant value beyond just a chance to win. “For us, this is an opportunity to play another game against a really good team in a great bowl game,” Sarkisian said. Unlike Notre Dame—who opted out of bowl consideration after missing the Playoff—both Michigan and Texas accepted their bowl invitations with enthusiasm, recognizing the significance of the matchup.
Michigan’s coach Sherrone Moore emphasized the developmental aspect of the game for both players and coaches after their loss to Ohio State. He believes participating in this bowl game will benefit the program long-term and noted the pleasant change of climate from Michigan’s cold weather.
The teams’ paths to the Citrus Bowl highlight the challenging nature of their schedules. Sarkisian reflected on the strategic choices Texas made, pointing out that scheduling high-profile nonconference games has its risks, especially after a narrow loss to Ohio State impacted their Playoff hopes. While both teams suffered thus far in terms of national title pursuits, they found motivation in competing against each other.
A standout aspect to this matchup is the emergence of two top quarterbacks: Arch Manning and Bryce Underwood. Manning, the top recruit in the Class of 2023, has shown promise with 14 touchdowns and over 3,000 passing yards in the regular season. Underwood, the No. 1 recruit in the Class of 2025, has had a variable performance record but now has the opportunity to improve his momentum heading into next year.
While both programs strive for success beyond bowl games—namely, conference championships and potential Playoff bids—the Citrus Bowl adds an extra layer of motivation thanks to the prestige of competing against a traditional rival. As coaches approach their respective players about the importance of the game, both see the 10th win as a milestone to build on for a more successful 2024 campaign.
The Citrus Bowl promises to not only provide closure for this season but also sets the stage for what these teams hope to achieve in the upcoming season. The winner will carry forward an extra sense of confidence and drive for next year’s College Football Playoff aspirations, making this New Year’s Eve matchup a pivotal event in both teams’ journeys.