The Texas vs Texas State matchup opens the Longhorns’ highly anticipated 2026 season in Austin.
Ranked No. 5 in the preseason polls, Texas hosts the Bobcats at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium on Saturday, September 5. This is only the second meeting between the in-state programs and the first since 1930. The schools sit roughly 30 miles apart along I-35, adding extra local interest to the rare matchup.
Texas enters with national championship expectations under Steve Sarkisian and quarterback Arch Manning. Texas State, now in the Pac-12, brings an up-tempo offense led by dual-threat quarterback Brad Jackson.
Here is everything fans need for Texas vs Texas State 2026.
Texas vs Texas State Game Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Date | Saturday, September 5, 2026 |
| Kickoff | 2:30 p.m. CT |
| Time Zones | 12:30 p.m. PT / 1:30 p.m. MT / 3:30 p.m. ET |
| Venue | Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, Austin |
| TV | ESPN |
| Streaming | ESPN app, Fubo, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling |
How to Watch Texas vs Texas State
The game airs nationally on ESPN.
Stream options include the ESPN app or ESPN.com with a TV-provider login, plus Fubo, YouTube TV, Hulu + Live TV and Sling. The early afternoon window makes it one of the more accessible Week 1 games for viewers across the country.
Texas vs Texas State Odds
Current lines:
- Spread: Texas -30.5
- Total: 60.5 points
Texas is a massive home favorite. The large number reflects the clear talent gap between a top-five Power Conference program and a Group of Five-turned-Pac-12 opponent. The elevated total points to expectations of an explosive offensive showing from the Longhorns and a high-tempo approach from Texas State.
Texas vs Texas State Prediction and Expert Picks
Most models and analysts heavily favor Texas.
- Dimers: Texas 44, Texas State 14 (96% win probability)
- ESPN: Texas 98.4% chance to win
- Sports Betting Dime: Texas 28.4, Texas State 26.1
- Common projections: Texas 45–52, Texas State 14–21
The Longhorns’ offensive firepower led by Arch Manning should create consistent problems. Texas State’s best path is to keep the tempo high, avoid turnovers and force Texas into a more methodical second-half approach once the lead grows. Large spreads can sometimes shrink if starters are pulled early, but the overall consensus expects a comfortable Texas victory.
Prediction: Texas 48, Texas State 17
Best lean: Texas to win
Spread lean: Texas -30.5 (or Over 60.5 for those expecting an offensive showcase)
Key Players to Watch
Texas centers its offense around Arch Manning, a Heisman candidate who threw for over 3,000 yards and 26 touchdowns in 2025. Transfer receivers such as Cam Coleman and returning playmakers give him multiple weapons. Edge rusher Colin Simmons ranks among the nation’s top pass-rush threats.
Texas State counters with dual-threat quarterback Brad Jackson, who threw for well over 3,000 yards and added significant rushing production last season. Receivers Beau Sparks and Chris Dawn return after strong seasons and will try to stretch the field against a talented Longhorns secondary.
Rivalry and Context
This is only the second meeting in series history. Texas won the previous encounter in 1930. The proximity along I-35 and Texas State’s move into the Pac-12 add fresh interest to a matchup that rarely occurs. For Texas it is a chance to open the year with a dominant home statement. For Texas State it is a high-level measuring-stick game against one of the top programs in the country.
The Texas vs Texas State game gives the Longhorns an early opportunity to set the tone for a championship-caliber season. ESPN has the broadcast, the odds heavily favor Texas, and the prediction points to a comfortable victory that starts the year on a strong note in Austin.
FAQ
When is Texas vs Texas State 2026?
Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. CT.
How to watch Texas vs Texas State?
The game airs on ESPN and streams via the ESPN app, Fubo, YouTube TV and similar services.
What are the Texas vs Texas State odds?
Texas is favored by 30.5 points. The total is 60.5.
What is the Texas vs Texas State prediction?
Texas is projected to win 48-17.
Where is the game being played?
Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, Texas.
