So, you're looking for what time does the Texas Longhorns play? Honestly, it's the question that haunts every person in Austin from August until March. You’d think in 2026 it would be easier to just have a set schedule, but between the SEC's massive TV deals and the absolute chaos of flex scheduling, finding a kickoff time more than two weeks out is basically like trying to find a parking spot on South Congress.
If you are checking for right now—today, Friday, January 16, 2026—the football pads are put away. The Horns just wrapped up their 2025 campaign with a solid win over Michigan in the Citrus Bowl on New Year's Eve. But if you’re a real one, you know the "playing" never actually stops. We’ve got hoops in full swing and baseball right around the corner.
The Next Big Game: Hoops and Diamonds
Right now, the energy has shifted entirely to the Moody Center.
If you want to see some action this week, the Men’s Basketball team is gearing up for a massive showdown. They are playing Texas A&M tomorrow, Saturday, January 17, at 5:00 p.m. CT. It’s at home. It’s going to be loud. It’s the kind of game where if you haven’t already secured a seat, you’re probably watching it from a crowded bar on 6th Street.
✨ Don't miss: Arizona Cardinals Depth Chart: Why the Roster Flip is More Than Just Kyler Murray
After that, the road gets even tougher. They travel to Lexington to face Kentucky on Wednesday, January 21. That tip-off is set for 6:00 p.m. CT. Keep an eye on the SEC Network for that one because the schedule says it's subject to the usual "television windows," which is just code for "we might move it ten minutes if the previous game goes into triple overtime."
2026 Baseball Starts Soon
Don't blink, because baseball season is basically here. The schedule just dropped, and the Longhorns start their 2026 campaign at UFCU Disch-Falk Field very soon.
- Friday, February 13 vs. UC Davis: 6:30 p.m. CT (The season opener!)
- Saturday, February 14 vs. UC Davis: 2:00 p.m. CT
- Sunday, February 15 vs. UC Davis: 1:00 p.m. CT
It’s a long season, but these afternoon games at the Disch are some of the best ways to spend a weekend in Austin before the triple-digit heat kicks in and makes us all miserable.
🔗 Read more: Anthony Davis USC Running Back: Why the Notre Dame Killer Still Matters
Looking Ahead: What Time Does the Texas Longhorns Play Football?
I know why you're really here. You want the football times. You’re trying to plan your weddings, your backyard BBQs, and your "sick days" for the fall of 2026.
The 2026 football schedule is already out, but—and this is a big "but"—the actual times for the SEC games won't be finalized until we get closer to the season. The SEC loves their 12-day and 6-day selection windows. However, we do know the dates and the matchups for the 2026 Texas Football Season:
- Sept 5 vs. Texas State: This is the home opener at DKR. Expect a morning or mid-afternoon kickoff.
- Sept 12 vs. Ohio State: This is the big one. Since it’s a massive non-conference game, there’s a 90% chance this is a night game or a high-profile "Big Noon" slot on FOX.
- Sept 19 vs. UTSA: Likely a late afternoon start.
- Sept 26 at Tennessee: Our first road test in Rocky Top.
- Oct 10 vs. Oklahoma (Dallas): It’s the Red River Rivalry. It’s almost always 11:00 a.m. CT. It has been for a century. Don't expect that to change.
- Nov 27 at Texas A&M: This is a Friday game for the Lone Star Showdown. It’ll likely be a primetime kickoff.
Why the Times Keep Shifting
People get frustrated when they search for what time does the texas longhorns play and see "TBA." I get it. It sucks for planning. But here is the deal: ESPN and ABC own the rights to these games now. They wait to see which teams are ranked and which matchups have the most "juice" before they lock in a time slot.
💡 You might also like: AC Milan vs Bologna: Why This Matchup Always Ruins the Script
If both Texas and Ohio State are undefeated going into September 12, you can bet your life that game will be in the 6:30 p.m. or 7:00 p.m. CT window. If someone trips up, it might get bumped to the afternoon.
How to Check in Real-Time
The best way to stay updated isn't actually checking a static calendar you printed out in July. You’ve gotta use the Texas Sports app or follow the official @TexasLonghorns account on X (formerly Twitter). They usually announce the "flex" times on Monday mornings, two weeks before the game.
Actionable Steps for Longhorn Fans
If you want to make sure you never miss a kickoff or a tip-off, here is what you should do right now:
- Sync Your Calendar: Go to the official Texas Athletics website and use the "Add to Calendar" feature for your specific sport. It updates automatically when "TBA" turns into a real time.
- Download the SEC App: Since Texas is fully integrated into the SEC now, the conference app often has the TV designations (like whether it’s on ESPN, SEC Network, or ABC) before the local news sites do.
- Check the "Night-Before" Rule: For basketball and baseball, always double-check the time the night before. Travel delays for visiting teams or weather in Austin can shift a 6:00 p.m. start to 7:30 p.m. faster than you can say "Hook 'em."
- Set Notifications for 10:00 a.m. Mondays: During football season, this is usually when the SEC announces the kick times for the games happening two weeks away.
Keeping up with the Longhorns is a full-time job. Whether it's a late-night basketball game at the Moody or a blistering afternoon at DKR, the schedule is always moving. Just keep your eyes on the official channels and your Saturdays clear.