The road to the CFP – these matchups will make or break the Texas Longhorns' 2025 season

Steve Sarkisian and the Texas Longhorns were close in last year's College Football Playoff. But, ultimately fell to the eventual national champion Ohio State Buckeyes. But, despite losing a lot to the NFL Draft, Texas has the Heisman Trophy favorite in Arch Manning and a loaded defense – itching to make amends after last season's exit.

It won't be easy, though. These are the Top 5 games to know on Texas' schedule which could make or break the year.

at Ohio State - August 30

This is a gimme, folks. A CFP semifinal rematch on the road versus one of, if not the best, teams in the country this season. Manning's first game in 2025 will be on the road versus the defending national champs. Not very nice.

But, the Buckeyes are breaking in a new quarterback, running back, and loads of NFL talent on the defensive side of the ball. FOX's Big Noon Kickoff and ESPN's College Gameday will be in attendance and just about everyone else in the country will have eyes on this one.

One loss doesn't derail a season in Week 1, but this one feels awfully big.

at Florida - October 4

Another road contest, this time it's of the SEC variety. All the focus is going to be on Manning versus DJ Lagway, but this feels like a game where the Texas defense can make a huge statement. Look for Sarkisian to try and settle in the young quarterback utilizing the run game and new tight end, Jack Endries.

On defense, Anthony Hill Jr., and Colin Simmons will be breathing down Lagway's neck and trying to keep him on his back instead of spreading the football around. On this same note, the highly-touted Longhorn secondary will be tested early and often from the young Gator signal caller.

This one is also a potential look-ahead spot which could be troublesome.

vs Oklahoma (at Cotton Bowl Stadium) - October 11

Another quarterback matchup folks will be geeked up to see. Transfer John Mateer will go toe-to-toe with Manning in the Allstate Red River Rivalry in front of 92,000+ fans at the Texas State Fair. Oklahoma will be looking to bounce back from a down year in 2024 so the 121st edition of this storied rivalry is bound to have some fireworks.

Texas currently leads the all-time series 64-51-5 and are a double-digit favorite.

at Georgia - November 15

The SEC Pain Train continues with yet another iconic road contest. This time, the Longhorns will be Between the Hedges in Athens, Ga. Texas' first-ever trip to Sanford Stadium is sure to be a doozy after the Longhorns went 0-2 against the Bulldogs – losing at home and in Atlanta at the SEC Championship Game.

Texas will most likely be an underdog on the road here and Manning could have a season-defining type of performance if he can lead the Horns to a November victory

vs Texas A&M - November 28

The Horns close out the regular season with another rivalry game back home. The Lone Star Showdown returns to Austin, Tex., as the Aggies will try to play spoiler and avenge last year's loss. This is certain to be a game where Texas will be favored but Mike Elko's bunch will be ready.

The 2024 edition was a street fight and Texas will be coming off games against Georgia and Arkansas which are certain to be physical as well.