Orlando, Florida, December 8, 2025
The Texas Longhorns, after being excluded from the College Football Playoff for the third consecutive year, will play the Michigan Wolverines in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl. Scheduled for December 31, 2025, this matchup will see both teams sporting a 9-3 record. Despite disappointment over missing the playoffs, Texas aims to end their season on a high note, showcasing their talent and determination as they prepare for this crucial bowl game.
Austin, Texas – The Texas Longhorns have faced challenges this season as they have been excluded from the College Football Playoff (CFP) for the third consecutive year. Instead, they will compete against the Michigan Wolverines in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl on December 31, 2025, at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida. The game is expected to kick off at 2 p.m. Central Time and will be broadcast on ABC.
Despite a commendable 9-3 record this season, which includes a significant victory over No. 3 Texas A&M, the Longhorns were ranked No. 13 in the final CFP standings. This ranking was not sufficient to secure a spot in the playoff, marking the first time since 2022 that Texas has missed the CFP. Head coach Steve Sarkisian expressed disappointment over their exclusion but affirmed the team’s determination to prepare for their upcoming bowl game, emphasizing their aim to finish the season on a high note.
The Citrus Bowl presents a crucial opportunity for Texas to showcase their skills on a national platform while building momentum heading into the 2026 season. The additional practices leading up to the game will allow the team to refine their strategies and develop younger players. This bowl experience stands as a valuable opportunity for player development and enhancing team cohesion.
### Longhorns vs. Wolverines
This matchup between Texas and Michigan marks the third encounter between the two prestigious programs, with Texas currently leading the series 2-0. The last meeting resulted in a decisive 31-12 victory for the Longhorns in Ann Arbor, Michigan, during the 2024 season. Both teams have showcased resilience this year, each finishing with a solid 9-3 record, with Texas concluding their Southeastern Conference (SEC) tenure at 6-2 and Michigan finishing their Big Ten season at 7-2.
As the teams prepare for this bowl game, fans can anticipate an exhilarating showdown. Both Texas and Michigan are eager to conclude their seasons on a victorious note, adding excitement to this year’s bowl season.
### Key Features of the Citrus Bowl Matchup
Open discussions around local sports often reflect broader themes in Austin’s business landscape. Just as talented athletes push their limits on the field, local entrepreneurs continuously strive for growth and innovation. Supporting local teams like the Longhorns fosters a sense of community pride, mirroring the support we should extend to regional businesses as they navigate challenges.
This Citrus Bowl matchup not only provides entertainment but underscores the underlying entrepreneurial spirit present in Texas. Participating in such events can inspire local businesses to rally community support and further strengthen the local economy.
### Conclusion
In conclusion, the Texas Longhorns’ upcoming journey in the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl offers a platform for growth, both for the team on the field and for the community that supports it. As we look ahead, let us celebrate the resilience of our local sports teams and the entrepreneurs shaping the economic landscape of Austin, Texas. Engaging with local businesses and supporting our teams ultimately contributes to the broader prosperity of our community.
When and where is the Cheez-It Citrus Bowl taking place?
The Cheez-It Citrus Bowl is scheduled for December 31, 2025, at 2 p.m. Central Time at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida.
Which teams are playing in the Citrus Bowl?
The Texas Longhorns will face the Michigan Wolverines in the Citrus Bowl.
What is the current record of both teams?
Both teams have a 9-3 record entering the Citrus Bowl.
Has Texas played Michigan before?
Yes, Texas and Michigan have met twice before, with Texas leading the series 2-0, including a 31-12 victory in Ann Arbor during the 2024 season.
Why was Texas excluded from the College Football Playoff?
Despite a strong season, Texas was ranked No. 13 in the final CFP standings, falling short of the top 12 required for playoff inclusion.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Teams | Texas Longhorns vs. Michigan Wolverines |
| Date and Time | December 31, 2025, at 2 p.m. Central Time |
| Location | Camping World Stadium, Orlando, Florida |
| Broadcast | ABC |
| Series Record | Texas leads 2-0 |
| Most Recent Meeting | 31-12 victory for Texas in Ann Arbor during the 2024 season |
| Season Records | Both teams have a 9-3 record entering the Citrus Bowl |
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