For the first time ever, the Texas Longhorns football team has secured the No. 1 ranking in a major preseason poll, placing them at the top of the Preseason Coaches Poll. This milestone marks a significant achievement for a program historically regarded as one of college football’s blue bloods, yet had never before attained the coveted top preseason spot.
Texas edged out reigning national champions Ohio State to claim the top position. Although the Longhorns had previously reached No. 2 in the preseason AP poll on several occasions, including during their national championship season in 2005, this recent ranking underscores the rapid improvement of the program under head coach Steve Sarkisian. Since his initial 5-7 record in 2021, Sarkisian has steered the Longhorns to three consecutive seasons of improving or maintaining their preseason ranking.
Entering the 2024 season, Texas started at No. 4 and eventually climbed to No. 1, their first such ranking since 2008. They closed out that season ranked No. 3 in the College Football Playoff and No. 4 in the final AP poll after being narrowly defeated by Ohio State in the national semifinals. Remarkably, Texas stands out as the only team to have made the final four in each of the last two seasons.
As the 2025 season looms, anticipation surrounds Texas as they welcome highly-touted quarterback Arch Manning, the No. 1 recruit from the Class of 2023. Manning spent two years developing before stepping into the starting role, following a precedent of ensuring top-tier talent is well-prepared. The Longhorns are also buoyed by a stellar recruiting class that includes standout players like linebacker Anthony Hill and defensive lineman Colin Simmons, enhancing their prospects for the upcoming season.
Additionally, Texas enjoys stability with its coaching staff, as offensive coordinator Kyle Flood and defensive coordinator Pete Kwiatkowski return for their fifth consecutive seasons, providing the team with continuity as they aim for greater success.
Interestingly, Texas has only won one national championship in the last 50 years, a notable feat led by quarterback Vince Young in 2005, which also featured a significant nonconference matchup against Ohio State—the same team they face again on August 30.
This newfound ranking and potential for the upcoming season presents a hopeful outlook for the Longhorns, as they strive not just to maintain their position, but to chase long-awaited glory on the national stage. Their strategic moves both on the field and in recruitment illustrate a bright future for the program through dedication and careful planning.