Arkansas vs. Texas: Complete Week 13 College Football Preview, Analysis, and Betting Odds

Saturday afternoon brings us a classic Southwest Conference rivalry renewed as the Arkansas Razorbacks travel to Austin to take on the Texas Longhorns in a crucial Week 13 SEC showdown. With conference implications on the line and both teams looking to finish their seasons strong, this matchup at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium promises high-stakes drama and compelling storylines.

The Longhorns enter this contest with a 7-3 record and playoff aspirations still flickering, while the Razorbacks are battling through a challenging 2-8 season but have shown flashes of competitiveness throughout their schedule. For fans and bettors alike, this game offers fascinating angles to consider, from Texas’s home-field dominance to Arkansas’s surprising ability to keep games closer than expected.

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Game Details and Information

Matchup: Arkansas Razorbacks at Texas Longhorns
Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025
Kickoff Time: 3:30 PM EST
Location: Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium, Austin, Texas
Capacity: 100,119
TV Channel: ABC
Conference: SEC

This afternoon kickoff on ABC ensures national attention for what has historically been one of college football’s most entertaining rivalries. The 3:30 PM slot places this game squarely in the national spotlight, with millions of viewers expected to tune in for this SEC matchup.

bet105 Latest Betting Odds and Lines

Here are the current betting lines for the Arkansas vs. Texas game, exclusively from bet105:

Arkansas Razorbacks

• Spread: +9.5 (-110)
• Moneyline: +260
• Total: Over 57.5 (-115)

Texas Longhorns

• Spread: -9.5 (-110)
• Moneyline: -325
• Total: Under 57.5 (-105)

These odds reflect Texas as a substantial favorite, which is no surprise given their home-field advantage and superior record. However, as we’ll explore throughout this preview, the 9.5-point spread tells an interesting story about how oddsmakers view this matchup, and savvy bettors will want to dig deeper into the trends and matchup dynamics before placing their wagers.

Comprehensive Team Analysis: Texas Longhorns

Season Overview and Current Form

The Texas Longhorns have navigated through a challenging SEC schedule to post a respectable 7-3 record in their second season in the conference. While not the dominant campaign some expected after their strong start, the Longhorns have proven they belong among college football’s elite programs and have shown resilience in bouncing back from setbacks.

Playing in front of one of college football’s most passionate fan bases at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium has been a significant advantage. The atmosphere in Austin on game days is electric, and the Longhorns have leveraged that home-field edge effectively throughout the season. With over 100,000 fans creating a wall of noise, visiting teams consistently struggle to execute their offensive game plans in this intimidating environment.

Offensive Strengths and Capabilities

The Texas offense has been the team’s calling card this season, featuring an explosive passing attack and a balanced approach that keeps defenses honest. The quarterback position has been a particular strength, with Texas signal-callers demonstrating exceptional efficiency on money downs. In fact, Longhorns quarterbacks led the FBS in completions for 20 or more yards on third down last season, a trend that has continued into this campaign.

This ability to convert crucial third downs, particularly through explosive pass plays, has been instrumental in sustaining drives and putting points on the board. When defenses think they have Texas in manageable third-down situations, the Longhorns have repeatedly burned them with big plays downfield. This creates a constant state of stress for opposing defensive coordinators who must respect both the short and intermediate passing game while also preventing the home-run ball.

The running back corps has been equally impressive, particularly in red zone situations. Texas backs recorded the most red zone targets among all FBS teams last season, showcasing their versatility as both runners and receivers. This multi-dimensional threat in scoring territory makes the Longhorns particularly dangerous once they cross midfield. Defensive coordinators face difficult decisions about whether to prioritize stopping the run or defending the pass when Texas gets inside the 20-yard line.

The offensive line has provided solid pass protection and has opened running lanes consistently, though they’ve faced challenges against the SEC’s elite defensive fronts. When given time, Texas quarterbacks have shown they can pick apart zone coverages and test man coverage with accurate deep balls to their talented receiving corps.

Defensive Performance and Concerns

While the offense has generally performed well, the Texas defense has been more inconsistent throughout the season. The unit has shown flashes of brilliance, generating turnovers and making crucial stops in key moments. However, they’ve also surrendered surprising point totals in games where the offense couldn’t outscore opponents.

The secondary has been particularly vulnerable at times, giving up big plays in the passing game that have kept opponents in contests that Texas should have controlled. This tendency to allow explosive plays has been a recurring theme and represents a potential weakness that Arkansas could look to exploit if given opportunities.

The pass rush has been inconsistent, with games where Texas has generated significant pressure followed by contests where opposing quarterbacks have had all day to throw. This inconsistency has put added stress on the secondary and contributed to some of the defensive struggles we’ve seen.

Spread Performance and Betting Trends

One of the most interesting aspects of Texas’s season from a betting perspective is their 2-8 record against the spread. This indicates that while the Longhorns are winning games and finding ways to get victories, they’re consistently failing to cover the often-large spreads that oddsmakers set for them.

This trend suggests a few possibilities. First, Texas may be playing down to competition at times rather than blowing out teams they should dominate. Second, the team may be struggling to maintain intensity for full 60-minute efforts, allowing opponents to cover late even when the game’s outcome isn’t in doubt. Third, oddsmakers may simply be overvaluing Texas based on brand name and talent rather than actual performance.

For bettors, this trend raises red flags about backing Texas to cover large spreads, even at home against a struggling Arkansas team. The 9.5-point line falls squarely into the territory where Texas has consistently failed to deliver value this season.

Another notable trend is that the game total has gone under in 10 of Texas’s last 16 games. This suggests that despite their offensive firepower, Longhorns games have a tendency to be lower scoring than expected. This could be due to conservative game management when Texas has leads, strong defensive performances in stretches, or simply an offensive approach that emphasizes ball control over pace.

Comprehensive Team Analysis: Arkansas Razorbacks

Season Struggles and Competitive Spirit

The Arkansas Razorbacks have endured a difficult season, entering this matchup with a 2-8 record that doesn’t reflect the competitiveness they’ve shown in many games. While wins have been hard to come by, the Razorbacks have demonstrated pride and fight throughout the campaign, often playing their best football against more talented opponents.

This season has been one of growing pains for Arkansas, with close losses and games that slipped away in the fourth quarter becoming a recurring theme. However, the silver lining for the Razorbacks has been their development throughout the year and their refusal to quit even when facing significant adversity.

Offensive Identity and Playmaking Ability

Despite their struggles, the Arkansas offense has shown the ability to move the football and score points, even against quality competition. The Razorbacks have been involved in high-scoring affairs throughout the season, with the game total going over in 9 of their last 13 games. This indicates that while their defense may struggle to get stops, the offense is capable of putting up significant point totals.

Arkansas has relied on an aggressive offensive philosophy that emphasizes attacking defenses vertically and taking shots downfield. When the passing game is clicking, the Razorbacks can strike quickly and put points on the board in bunches. This big-play capability means they’re never truly out of games, even when facing double-digit deficits.

The running game has been a focal point of the Arkansas offense, with the Razorbacks committed to establishing the ground attack even when facing stacked boxes. This commitment to the run helps set up play-action opportunities and keeps defenses honest, preventing them from dropping everyone into coverage and taking away the passing game completely.

The offensive line has faced challenges against SEC defensive fronts but has generally provided adequate protection in the passing game and created some running lanes. Against Texas’s front seven, the Arkansas offense will need its best performance to sustain drives and keep the Longhorns’ offense off the field.

Defensive Challenges and Improvement Areas

The Arkansas defense has struggled throughout the season, particularly against spread offenses that can attack them with tempo and multiple formations. The Razorbacks have given up significant yardage and points, contributing directly to their poor record.

However, there have been bright spots, particularly in first-half performances where Arkansas has shown the ability to execute defensive game plans effectively before fatigue and depth issues become factors. The Razorbacks have also generated some turnovers and have shown improvement in fundamentals as the season has progressed.

Against Texas’s potent offense, the Arkansas defense faces a significant challenge. The key will be whether they can generate any pressure on the Texas quarterback and whether they can prevent the explosive plays that have doomed them in previous games.

First-Half Performance and Betting Value

One of the most intriguing aspects of Arkansas’s season has been their performance in first halves. The Razorbacks have covered the first-half spread in 10 of their last 13 games, showing a consistent ability to start games strong and compete in the opening 30 minutes.

This trend suggests that Arkansas comes out with effective game plans and plays with energy and focus in the early going. Whether due to superior preparation, extra motivation, or simply having fresh legs before depth issues become a factor, the Razorbacks have been one of the better first-half bets in college football this season.

This presents an interesting angle for bettors in this matchup. While Arkansas may ultimately struggle to keep pace over a full 60 minutes against Texas, the first half could be competitive, potentially offering value on first-half spreads or even the Arkansas team total in the first half.

The trend of Arkansas games going over also continues to be relevant. With both teams capable of scoring points and Arkansas showing little defensive resistance throughout the season, this game has the ingredients for a high-scoring affair that exceeds the posted total of 57.5 points.

Historical Context and Rivalry History

Southwest Conference Legacy

The Arkansas-Texas rivalry dates back to 1894 and was one of the defining matchups of the old Southwest Conference era. For decades, these teams battled annually in games that often decided conference championships and shaped the college football landscape in the region.

From 1915 to 1991, Arkansas and Texas met every year, with the series featuring countless memorable moments and games that defined seasons for both programs. The rivalry intensified in the 1960s when both programs were regularly competing for national championships, with legendary coaches like Darrell Royal and Frank Broyles leading their respective teams.

The Separation Years

When Arkansas departed the Southwest Conference for the SEC in 1992, the annual rivalry game ended, though the teams continued to meet occasionally. The reduction in frequency diminished some of the rivalry’s intensity, but the historical significance and geographical proximity ensured that whenever these teams did meet, the games carried extra weight.

SEC Reunion and Renewed Competition

Texas’s move to the SEC in 2024 brought these programs back together as conference opponents, renewing one of college football’s classic rivalries. The return to annual meetings has been welcomed by fans of both programs who remember the intensity and significance of these games from the Southwest Conference days.

This Week 13 matchup represents only the second year of the renewed annual series, but already the games have recaptured some of the old rivalry spirit. For older fans, it’s a return to tradition, while younger fans are discovering what makes this matchup special.

Notable Moments and Classic Games

Throughout the history of this rivalry, several games stand out as particularly memorable. The series has featured numerous upsets, last-second finishes, and games that have altered the trajectory of both programs’ seasons.

These classic encounters have created a deep well of history and tradition that adds significance to every Arkansas-Texas matchup, even in seasons where one or both teams may be struggling. The pride and competitive spirit that define this rivalry ensure that records often go out the window when these teams meet.

Key Matchup Analysis and Factors to Watch

Texas Passing Attack vs. Arkansas Secondary

One of the most critical matchups in this game will be the Texas passing attack against an Arkansas secondary that has been vulnerable throughout the season. If the Longhorns can establish their vertical passing game early, they could put significant pressure on the Razorbacks and force Arkansas into a one-dimensional approach.

The Arkansas secondary will need to communicate effectively and get help from the pass rush to have any chance of slowing down Texas’s receivers. If the Razorbacks can generate even modest pressure and force some quick throws, they might be able to keep this matchup competitive longer than expected.

Arkansas’s Ability to Run the Football

For Arkansas to have a chance in this game, they’ll need to establish some success running the football. If the Razorbacks can run effectively, they can control tempo, keep the Texas offense off the field, and potentially keep this game closer than the spread suggests.

Texas’s run defense will be tested by Arkansas’s commitment to the ground game. If the Longhorns can consistently stuff the run and force passing situations, Arkansas will struggle to sustain drives and keep pace offensively.

Third-Down Efficiency Battle

As with most football games, third-down efficiency will likely play a decisive role in determining the outcome. Texas’s strength converting explosive third downs could be neutralized if Arkansas can generate pressure or force the Longhorns into longer third-down situations.

Conversely, Arkansas’s ability to convert third downs and sustain drives will be crucial to their chances of keeping this game competitive. If the Razorbacks go three-and-out repeatedly, their defense will be on the field constantly and will eventually break down.

Home Field Advantage and Crowd Impact

The atmosphere at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium cannot be overstated as a factor in this game. With over 100,000 fans creating noise and energy, the environment will be challenging for Arkansas’s offense to operate in, particularly when trying to communicate at the line of scrimmage.

The Texas players will feed off the home crowd’s energy, potentially elevating their play beyond their normal level. For Arkansas to overcome this disadvantage, they’ll need to weather the early storm and find ways to take some energy out of the stadium with strong first-quarter performance.

Statistical Deep Dive and Analytical Insights

Advanced Metrics Comparison

When examining advanced metrics, Texas holds significant advantages in most categories. The Longhorns rank higher in overall offensive efficiency, explosive play rate, and success rate on standard downs. However, Arkansas has shown the ability to create big plays of their own, particularly through the air.

Defensively, the metrics favor Texas substantially, with better rankings in yards per play allowed, third-down defense, and red zone defense. Arkansas’s defensive metrics have been among the worst in the SEC, which partially explains their struggles this season.

Situational Football Performance

Texas has been better in situational football throughout the season, particularly in red zone situations where they’ve been efficient both offensively and defensively. Arkansas has struggled in these high-leverage situations, often settling for field goals when they need touchdowns or allowing touchdown when they need to force field goals.

Special teams could also play a role in this game, with field position battles potentially becoming crucial if the game is closer than expected. Both teams have had moments of excellence and struggles in special teams play this season.

Tempo and Possession Considerations

The pace at which this game is played could significantly impact the final score and outcome. If Texas can control tempo and possess the football for extended periods, they can wear down Arkansas’s defense and limit the Razorbacks’ offensive possessions.

Conversely, if Arkansas can speed up the game and create more possessions for both teams, they might be able to exploit Texas’s defensive vulnerabilities and keep the score higher than the Longhorns would prefer.

Weather Conditions and Game Day Factors

Expected Game Day Weather in Austin

Weather in Austin in late November is typically mild and conducive to good football. Current forecasts suggest pleasant conditions with temperatures in the 60s or 70s, light winds, and minimal chance of precipitation. These conditions should allow both teams to execute their game plans without weather-related complications.

The comfortable weather means we can expect both teams to open up their playbooks and attack through the air when opportunities present themselves. Neither team should have significant weather-related advantages, making this a straight-up competition between systems and talent.

Coaching Matchup and Strategic Considerations

Coaching Experience and Philosophy

The coaching matchup features experienced staff on both sidelines, each with distinct philosophies about how to win football games. The strategic chess match between coaching staffs will be fascinating to watch unfold, particularly in terms of adjustments and counter-adjustments throughout the game.

Texas’s coaching staff has more talent to work with and the home-field advantage, but Arkansas’s coaches have shown creativity in game planning and a willingness to take calculated risks to keep games competitive. The ability of each staff to make halftime adjustments could prove crucial if this game is close at the break.

In-Game Adjustment Capabilities

One area where Texas has shown strength is making second-half adjustments, while Arkansas has sometimes struggled to maintain first-half success into the later stages of games. This could become a decisive factor if Arkansas comes out strong in the first half but faces a Texas team that has made effective adjustments at halftime.

Betting Trends and Predictive Analysis

Historical Betting Patterns

The betting trends for both teams this season tell a compelling story. Texas’s failure to cover spreads despite winning games suggests they may be overvalued by oddsmakers, while Arkansas’s strong first-half ATS record indicates they’re being undervalued, at least for portions of games.

The contrasting trends on game totals—with Arkansas games going over and Texas games going under—creates an interesting dilemma for total bettors. This game’s total of 57.5 falls in a middle ground where arguments can be made for either side.

Predictive Model Insights

Our predictive model gives Texas a 76.3% chance to win this game outright, which aligns with the moneyline odds that make the Longhorns heavy favorites. However, when examining the spread, our model shows Arkansas covering the +9.5 with 57.5% confidence.

This discrepancy between win probability and spread coverage probability is precisely what makes college football betting fascinating. While Texas is very likely to win the game, the question is whether they’ll win by 10 or more points, which historical trends suggest is far from certain.

Impact on Season Outlook and Future Implications

Texas’s Path Forward

For Texas, this game represents an opportunity to build momentum heading into the final stretch of the regular season and potentially into postseason play. A convincing victory would boost confidence and could improve their positioning in conference standings and playoff discussions.

However, a lackluster performance or narrow victory could raise questions about whether this Texas team has peaked or is trending in the wrong direction at a crucial time. The Longhorns need to make a statement in this game to reinforce their status as one of the SEC’s better teams.

Arkansas’s Pride and Development

For Arkansas, this game is about pride, development, and building toward future success. While bowl eligibility is out of reach, the Razorbacks can use games like this to evaluate younger players and build confidence heading into the offseason.

A competitive performance against Texas, even in a loss, would provide evidence that Arkansas is heading in the right direction as a program. The Razorbacks need to show fight and improvement, regardless of the final score.

Key Players and Individual Matchups

Impact Players for Texas

The Texas quarterback will be the most crucial player on the field, with his ability to make plays both in structure and when plays break down likely determining the game’s outcome. The receiving corps provides multiple weapons, and the ability of these playmakers to win one-on-one matchups could be the difference between a close game and a blowout.

On defense, Texas’s defensive line needs to control the line of scrimmage and prevent Arkansas from establishing any consistent rhythm running the football. If they can win up front, the secondary should be able to handle Arkansas’s passing attack.

Impact Players for Arkansas

For the Razorbacks, the quarterback position is equally crucial, with Arkansas needing efficient play and smart decision-making to keep drives alive. The running backs must find ways to create yards even when running lanes are limited, forcing Texas to respect the run game.

Defensively, Arkansas needs playmakers to step up and make game-changing plays. Whether through turnovers, sacks, or tackles for loss, the Razorbacks need some defensive stops to keep this game competitive.

Final Thoughts and Week 13 Outlook

This Arkansas-Texas matchup represents more than just another Week 13 college football game. It’s a renewal of a historic rivalry, a chance for Texas to solidify their season, and an opportunity for Arkansas to show development and competitiveness despite a challenging record.

The betting angles are fascinating, with Texas as a heavy favorite but possessing concerning trends related to spread coverage. Arkansas’s ability to start games strong and their tendency to be involved in high-scoring affairs creates interesting possibilities for bettors looking beyond simply picking the winner.

As we approach Saturday’s 3:30 PM kickoff on ABC, this game promises to deliver compelling storylines, competitive football, and potentially some surprising moments. Whether you’re watching as a fan of either team, a neutral observer, or someone with betting interest, this matchup should provide plenty of entertainment and drama.

For more college football betting analysis, odds, and predictions throughout the season, continue following bet105 for expert insights and the latest betting lines. As Week 13 unfolds and the college football season enters its final stretch, every game takes on added significance, and Arkansas vs. Texas is no exception.

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Read our predictions for other notable games in Week 13 of NCAA Football;

Miami vs. Virginia Tech – Nov. 22 at 12:00pm ET

Missouri vs. Oklahoma – Nov. 22 at 12:00pm ET

USC vs. Oregon – Nov. 22 at 3:30pm ET

Syracuse vs. Notre Dame – Nov. 22 at 3:30pm ET

TCU vs. Houston – Nov. 22 at 4:00pm ET

Tennessee vs Florida – Nov. 22 at 7:30pm ET

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Disclaimer: This preview uses AI-assisted statistical research alongside human analysis and editorial oversight. Despite verification efforts, data errors may occur. Readers should independently verify odds, fighter stats, and records before betting. Projections are analytical estimates, not guarantees.