Texas to Face Michigan in Historic Citrus Bowl Matchup
The #14 Texas Longhorns (9-3) are headed to Orlando, Florida, to face the #18 Michigan Wolverines (9-3) in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl. The game is set for December 31, 2025, with kickoff at 2:00 PM CT on ABC.
While the goal in Austin was undeniably a third consecutive College Football Playoff berth, the Citrus Bowl presents a prestigious opportunity to finish the season with ten wins against a blue-blood opponent. This matchup features two of the most iconic brands in the sport meeting for just the second time ever.
How They Got Here
Texas entered November with high hopes, but a tough 10-35 loss to Georgia on November 15 proved to be the stumbling block that kept them out of the 12-team playoff field. However, the Longhorns rallied to finish strong, dominating Arkansas and then defeating rival Texas A&M 38-27 in the renewed Lone Star Showdown to cap the regular season.
Michigan, coming off a rebuilding year following their 2023 National Championship, exceeded expectations with a 9-3 campaign in the expanded Big Ten. However, the program was thrown into chaos on December 10 when head coach Sherrone Moore was fired following an internal investigation. Interim head coach Biff Poggi will lead the Wolverines in Orlando.
Game Week Headlines
1. Arch Manning Returns for 2026
In massive news for the program, Arch Manning confirmed he will return to Texas for the 2026 season, ending speculation about the NFL Draft. He enters the bowl game with 2,942 yards and 24 touchdowns.
2. Defensive Opt-Outs
The Longhorns will be without several key defenders who have declared for the NFL Draft and opted out of the bowl game:
- LB Anthony Hill Jr.
- S Michael Taaffe
- CB Manny Muhammad
- DE Ethan Burke This presents a challenge against Michigan’s physical run game but offers a preview of the young talent stepping up for 2026.
Key Storylines
Arch Manning’s First Bowl Start
Quarterback Arch Manning has settled into the starting role nicely. In the rivalry win over Oklahoma (23-6) and the season finale against A&M, Manning showed poise and efficiency. The Citrus Bowl will be another major stage for him to solidify his command of the offense heading into the 2026 offseason.
The Defense
The Texas defense, led by linebacker Colin Simmons, has been a strength all year. Holding Oklahoma to just 6 points and stifling Texas A&M’s attack were highlights. They will face a Michigan team that relies heavily on a physical ground game and a stout defensive front.
History
Texas holds a 2-0 all-time record against Michigan. The most recent meeting was a decisive 31-12 victory in Ann Arbor during the 2024 regular season. Michigan will be looking for payback on a neutral field.
Viewing Info
- Date: Wednesday, December 31, 2025
- Time: 2:00 PM CT
- TV: ABC
- Location: Camping World Stadium, Orlando, FL
A win would give Texas its third straight season with double-digit victories, a feat not accomplished in Austin since the Colt McCoy era.
