Oklahoma Sooners and Texas Longhorns Gear Up for 2026 Red River Rivalry Showdown
Oklahoma Sooners quarterback John Mateer reacts during the first quarter against the Texas Longhorns at the Cotton Bowl.
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The 2026 Red River Rivalry features the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners, both coming off bye weeks. After Texas upset Oklahoma in 2025, the Sooners, led by quarterback John Mateer, aim to rebound against a retooled Longhorns squad. This matchup promises to be a significant early test in the SEC.
- 01Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer, after recovering from a hand injury, had a disappointing performance in the 2025 matchup against Texas, recording a PFF grade of 29.5.
- 02Texas won the previous game 23–6, with a standout defensive performance and a crucial 75-yard punt return by Ryan Niblett.
- 03Oklahoma's defense ranked second in adjusted EPA per play and third in havoc rate, showcasing their ability to disrupt opposing offenses.
- 04The Longhorns made significant offensive improvements for 2026, adding key players like wide receiver Cam Coleman and running backs Raleek Brown and Hollywood Smothers.
- 05Both teams are expected to be well-prepared for the rivalry game, having faced top SEC opponents before their bye weeks.
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The 2026 Red River Rivalry is set to be a highly anticipated matchup between the Texas Longhorns and the Oklahoma Sooners, both coming off bye weeks after facing top SEC opponents. The Longhorns, who upset the No. 6 Sooners in 2025, are looking to extend their win streak against a Sooners team that aims to bounce back after a disappointing performance last season. Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer, who returned from a hand injury, struggled in the previous game, achieving a PFF grade of 29.5 and facing significant pressure from Texas's defense. Despite this, Oklahoma boasts a strong defense ranked second in adjusted EPA per play. The Longhorns have bolstered their offense with new talent, aiming for a more potent performance than their previous season where they scored only one touchdown against the Sooners. As both teams prepare for this rivalry, the stakes are high, with potential College Football Playoff implications on the line.
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The outcome of this rivalry game could significantly influence the College Football Playoff landscape for both teams.
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