Arkansas’s disdain for Texas is legendary—some say it surpasses even its own self-regard.
The rivalry between Texas and Arkansas is one of college football’s classics, now returning to conference play after a 33-year hiatus. Three years ago, Texas visited Fayetteville and suffered a bruising loss to the Razorbacks. As the Longhorns prepare to revisit their old foe, they aim to flip the script and reclaim bragging rights.
While the Southwest Conference rivalry is steeped in history, today’s Texas players weren’t around to witness its heyday. “I don’t know what Darrell Royal did to Arkansas back in the day, but they absolutely hate our guts,” said Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian. “We learned that the first time we went there. You watch the clips from that game, and Joe Tessitore says, ‘Arkansas hates Texas more than they like themselves.’ And I think he might be right.”
Sarkisian, while emphasizing the rivalry’s weight, is keeping his team’s focus on what matters most: winning. After a dominant showing against Florida, Texas has proven it’s nearly unstoppable when firing on all cylinders. Though Arkansas, at 5–4 overall and 3–3 in conference play, may not have the most impressive record, its upset over then-No. 4 Tennessee serves as a reminder of its potential.
Junior linebacker Trey Moore, a transfer from UTSA, is embracing the rivalry in his first year with the Longhorns. He’s had his best stretch of games in burnt orange but believes Texas’ focus should remain inward. “We have to acknowledge the history and tradition, but we also need to stay centered on who we are as a team,” Moore said. “Being enamored with ourselves and focusing on us could be an advantage.”
Texas will need that culture and focus, especially on defense, to secure a win in Fayetteville. Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green poses a unique challenge with his 6-foot-6 frame, dual-threat ability, and season stats that include 2,214 passing yards, 11 touchdowns, 411 rushing yards, and five rushing scores.
“Coach Petrino is an elite offensive mind,” said Sarkisian. “They use Green effectively in zone reads, quarterback runs, and downfield passing. You have to defend a lot, and with a guy like him running the offense, it’s a real challenge.”
The renewed rivalry between No. 3 Texas and Arkansas kicks off Saturday at 11 a.m. in Fayetteville, with history and high stakes on the line.
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