Introduction
The Arkansas vs Texas matchup reignites one of college football’s fiercest rivalries. With both teams now competing in the SEC, the stakes are higher than ever. This article delves into the rich history of the Texas vs Arkansas game, highlights key players like Arch Manning, Parker Livingstone, and Taylen Green, and provides analysis, prediction, and where to watch the showdown.
1. Historic Rivalry: Arkansas vs Texas Football
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The Arkansas–Texas football rivalry dates back to November 29, 1894, when Texas defeated Arkansas 54–0.
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Historically, Texas leads the series, with the Longhorns holding a 58–23 advantage.
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One of the most iconic games was the 1969 “Game of the Century”, when No.1 Texas came from behind to beat No.2 Arkansas in Fayetteville.
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The rivalry cooled when Arkansas left the Southwest Conference, but with Texas now in the SEC, the border rivalry has been renewed.
2. The Current Landscape — Texas vs Arkansas in 2025
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In their recent meeting (Nov 22, 2025), Texas beat Arkansas 52–37, showing momentum and firepower.
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For Arkansas football, things are turbulent: they fired Sam Pittman, and Bobby Petrino was brought back as interim head coach.
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The Texas–Arkansas game is now a permanent fixture in the SEC schedule through at least 2029.
3. Key Players & Match-Up Analysis
3.1 Arch Manning
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Arch Manning, Texas’s young quarterback, has become a central figure in this rivalry.
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In the 52–37 win over Arkansas, he threw for 389 yards and 4 touchdowns, setting a career high.
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Notably, Manning became the first QB in Texas history to throw, rush, and catch a touchdown in the same game — he even caught a pass in the end zone on a trick play.
3.2 Parker Livingstone
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Parker Livingstone is a breakout freshman wide receiver for Texas.
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In 2025, he’s caught 23 passes for 368 yards and 5 touchdowns, averaging 16 yards per catch.
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He also threw the trick-play pass to Manning for Manning’s receiving touchdown — a highlight that showcased his versatility.
3.3 Taylen Green
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On the Arkansas side, Taylen Green is their senior quarterback.
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His 2025 season stats: over 2,537 passing yards, 19 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions.
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As a dual-threat QB, Green’s size (6’6”) and athleticism make him dangerous, but turnovers remain an issue.
4. Coaching & Strategy: Bobby Petrino’s Return
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Bobby Petrino, previously Arkansas’s coach (2008–2011), returned as interim coach in 2025.
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His experience could help stabilize the Razorbacks, but taking on Texas under pressure is a tall order.
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Texas, under coach Steve Sarkisian, is leaning heavily on its young stars like Manning and Livingstone to drive offense.
5. Prediction & Outlook — Texas vs Arkansas Prediction
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Given Texas’s offensive firepower and the recent 52–37 result, Texas is favored again.
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Arkansas, with Green at QB, will try to make it a shootout — but their consistency issues and coaching transition work against them.
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Prediction: Texas wins comfortably, unless Arkansas can force turnovers or make a big defensive stand.
6. Where to Watch: UT vs Arkansas
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For fans wondering where to watch the Arkansas Razorbacks football vs Texas Longhorns football, the 2025 game was broadcast on ABC.
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To catch future games, check SEC network schedules or local listings for “Texas vs Arkansas football”.
7. Legacy & Historical Significance
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This rivalry is more than just a game: it’s deeply rooted in college football history.
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Legendary games, like the 1969 match attended by President Nixon, have cemented Texas–Arkansas as a marquee clash.
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With Texas now in the SEC, both programs have renewed annual relevance — and the rivalry may once again become one of the greats.
Conclusion
The Arkansas vs Texas rivalry combines history, high-stakes competition, and exciting young talent. With Arch Manning and Parker Livingstone leading Texas, and Taylen Green steering Arkansas, every matchup promises drama. As they continue their SEC journey, this “border war” is once again a must-watch.
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