How are the Texas Longhorns coping with being the underdogs for Ohio State game?

For the first time in program history, the Texas Longhorns have earned the top spot in the preseason Associated Press college football poll for the 2025 season. This milestone marks a new chapter for the program, yet the Longhorns face an immediate challenge that will test their championship credentials: a season-opening game on the road against No. 3 Ohio State.

Oddly enough, Texas is entering this high-profile opener as the underdog. According to betting lines reported by ESPN, the Longhorns are listed as 2.5-point underdogs to the Buckeyes.

This situation is unprecedented in recent college football history, as it would be the first time since 1978 that a No. 1 ranked team started the season as an underdog, based on data tracked by ESPN Research.

The matchup also serves as a rematch of last year’s College Football Playoff semifinal, where Ohio State defeated Texas 28-14. However, the Longhorns will approach this contest with a significantly revamped offense.

Texas has lost numerous key offensive players since last season, including starting quarterback Quinn Ewers and several important skill-position players and linemen.

Arch Manning, one of the most highly anticipated college quarterbacks in recent years, is set to take over as the Longhorns’ starter after spending two seasons as Ewers’ backup. Manning’s debut as the full-time signal-caller carries high expectations, with fans and analysts eager to see how he manages the offense.