Game Week on the Forty 🤘
Texas vs. San Jose State
Saturday, Sept. 6 | 11 AM CT | ABC
Presented by St. David’s HealthCare
Game week has arrived on the Forty Acres, and with it comes the buzz, the pageantry, and the anticipation that only Texas football can deliver. On Saturday, Sept. 6, the No. 1-ranked Texas Longhorns will open their 2025 home slate against the San Jose State Spartans in Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium. Kickoff is set for 11 a.m. CT on ABC, the perfect stage for a program intent on defending its spot atop the college football world.
For Texas fans, this weekend is more than just the first home game of the season it’s a celebration of tradition and a renewed chance to watch their team showcase its dominance in front of a burnt orange sea of 100,000-plus. The chants, the horns, the smoke, and the sound of the “Texas Fight” fight song echoing across the Forty Acres will signal one thing loud and clear: football is back in Austin.
Setting the Stage
The Longhorns enter the matchup riding high after an emphatic Week 1 victory that reminded the nation why they were slotted at No. 1 in the preseason polls. Steve Sarkisian’s roster is loaded with talent, depth, and experience qualities that have Texas fans dreaming of a second straight College Football Playoff berth.
San Jose State, meanwhile, arrives in Austin looking to make a statement of its own. The Spartans, out of the Mountain West, are no strangers to big stages, having faced Power Five programs in recent years. While they’ll be significant underdogs against the Longhorns, this is the kind of opportunity where a strong showing can build momentum for the rest of their season.
What to Watch: Texas
All eyes will naturally be on Texas quarterback Arch Manning, who has grown into his role as the face of college football. Manning looked sharp in the opener, distributing the ball with poise while showing the command and confidence that have elevated him into early-season Heisman conversations. With a deep wide receiver corps headlined by Johntay Cook II and Isaiah Bond, expect Texas to test the Spartans’ secondary often.
The Longhorns’ backfield also remains a strength. CJ Baxter Jr. and Jaydon Blue form one of the most dynamic duos in the nation, combining speed, vision, and power. Against San Jose State, look for Sarkisian to establish the ground game early, then open things up through play-action.
Defensively, Texas brings back a fierce front seven led by Anthony Hill Jr. and Justice Finkley. Their ability to pressure the quarterback and clog rushing lanes could make life difficult for the Spartans’ offense from the opening whistle. After forcing multiple turnovers in Week 1, the Horns’ defense will be eager to set the tone again.
What to Watch: San Jose State
San Jose State may not have the same firepower as Texas, but the Spartans are a disciplined team capable of capitalizing on mistakes. Their offense is anchored by a veteran quarterback who can extend plays with his legs, as well as a versatile backfield that thrives on misdirection.
The Spartans’ biggest challenge will be keeping their quarterback upright against Texas’ pass rush. Expect them to rely on quick throws, screens, and tempo to try to neutralize the Longhorns’ size advantage. Defensively, San Jose State will aim to bend but not break, hoping to force Texas into long drives rather than quick strikes.
Keys to the Game
For Texas, the formula is straightforward: start fast, control the line of scrimmage, and avoid turnovers. Early points will not only energize the home crowd but also take away any belief the Spartans might have in pulling an upset. Execution in the red zone will be another focus finishing drives with touchdowns rather than field goals will keep the Horns firmly in command.
For San Jose State, limiting explosive plays will be critical. If they can force Texas to sustain long drives and find ways to capitalize on special teams or turnovers, they can stay competitive into the second half.
The Atmosphere
Saturday morning kickoffs in Austin are special. Fans will file into DKR with breakfast tacos in hand, the Longhorn Band will march onto the field with precision, and Uper Decks will roar as the team charges through the smoke. From Bevo’s proud stance on the sidelines to the student section bouncing to “Texas Fight,” every moment will be steeped in tradition.
With the game televised nationally on ABC, it’s also another opportunity for Texas to showcase its program to a coast-to-coast audience. The Longhorn brand has always been powerful, but the spotlight of being the preseason No. 1 adds even more intrigue.
Prediction
On paper, Texas simply has too much talent and depth for San Jose State to overcome. The Longhorns’ offensive line should control the trenches, allowing both the run and pass games to flourish. Defensively, the Horns will look to overwhelm the Spartans with speed and physicality.
Expect Texas to take care of business in front of the home crowd, fine-tuning their execution before diving deeper into their schedule.
Final Score Prediction: Texas 48, San Jose State 10
Closing Thoughts
Game week on the Forty is always special, but this one carries a unique energy. It’s the first chance for fans to see the 2025 Longhorns up close, the first chance to roar “Hook ’em” in unison, and the first chapter of what Texas hopes will be a historic season.
Come Saturday at 11 a.m., when the band strikes its first note and Bevo takes the field, everything else will fade away. It’s football time in Texas and the Forty Acres is ready. 🤘
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