Spring Football Recap: Texas Builds Depth, Oklahoma's Red Team Dominates
On April 18, both the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma held their marquee spring football events. While the two programs opted for completely different formats, both provided fans and analysts with crucial clues about what to expect when the 2026 season kicks off.
Texas Longhorns: Forgoing the Scoreboard for Development
Unlike previous years, head coach Steve Sarkisian chose to turn the annual spring game into an open practice (“Fan Day”), eliminating traditional scoring and scrimmage rules. The decision sent a clear message: Texas is focused on player development and evaluating roster depth rather than putting on a competitive show.
Key Observations:
- The Quarterback Room: As the undisputed starter, Arch Manning saw limited participation during the open practice as he continued recovering from an offseason foot injury. He did not participate in 11-on-11 drills, but looked sharp in 7-on-7 sessions, notably connecting with receiver Cam Coleman for a touchdown. Manning’s limited reps opened the door for backup KJ Lacey, who earned widespread praise from the coaching staff for his maturity and ability to read defenses.
- Emerging Receivers: Following offseason roster changes, newcomers like Cam Coleman, Raleek Brown, alongside Hollywood Smothers and Jermaine Bishop Jr., consistently produced highlight moments during practice.
- Defensive Pressure: Defensive coordinator Will Muschamp’s unit remains highly aggressive. Linebacker Rasheem Biles proved to be a disruptive force in the front seven, with the coaching staff heavily featuring him in various blitz packages.
Oklahoma Sooners: Red Team Shines in Spring Game
Up in Norman, the Oklahoma Sooners used a full Red-White spring-game format rather than Texas’ open-practice structure. The Red Team, featuring many projected contributors, controlled the day and gave fans their first public look at how the 2026 offense is developing.
Key Observations:
- Mateer’s Steady Hand: Red Team quarterback John Mateer gave Oklahoma a stable public spring-game showing and remains central to the Sooners’ 2026 offensive reset.
- Running Back Room: Oklahoma’s spring-game structure highlighted the importance of running back depth and line-of-scrimmage play as the Sooners continue adapting to the SEC.
- Special Teams Watch: Kicker and return-game reps remain worth tracking through fall camp because Cotton Bowl field position often swings Red River games.
Red River Outlook
Texas utilized its open practice to stock up on young talent and build depth, while Oklahoma used a live scrimmage format to test its offensive reset in public. While the Red River matchup in Dallas is still months away, the contrasting team-building philosophies and strengths displayed this spring have already set the stage for an unpredictable rivalry matchup.
Source check
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