Texas Longhorns vs Michigan Wolverines Citrus Bowl 2025 Arch Manning Bryce Underwood

Texas vs Michigan Prediction, Pick, Odds and Spread: Longhorns, Wolverines Clash in 2025 Citrus Bowl

By Md Zamal Uddin

The 2025 Citrus Bowl sets the stage for a rare and highly anticipated showdown as two college football blue bloods, Texas Longhorns and Michigan Wolverines, meet to close out their seasons. Scheduled for Wednesday at Camping World Stadium in Orlando, Florida, this matchup carries national attention, postseason pride, and significant betting intrigue.

Ranked No. 13 Texas and No. 18 Michigan, both programs enter the Citrus Bowl seeking their 10th win of the 2025 season. Despite their storied histories, Texas and Michigan have met only twice before, making this just the third all-time meeting between the powerhouse programs. Notably, Michigan is still searching for its first-ever victory over Texas.

Citrus Bowl 2025: Texas vs Michigan Game Details

Date: Wednesday, December 31, 2025
Time: 3:00 PM ET
Location: Camping World Stadium, Orlando, Florida
TV Channel: ABC
Live Stream: Fubo
Spread: Texas -7.5
Over/Under: Varies by sportsbook

Michigan’s Turbulent December and Coaching Chaos

Michigan’s appearance in the Citrus Bowl comes amid one of the most chaotic months in program history. Former head coach Sherrone Moore was fired with cause on December 10 following allegations of an inappropriate relationship with a staff member. His subsequent arrest sent shockwaves through the college football world and left the Wolverines scrambling for stability.

While Kyle Whittingham, the former Utah head coach, has been hired to lead Michigan moving forward, he will not be actively involved in bowl preparation. Instead, interim head coach Biff Poggi will guide the Wolverines against Texas.

Whittingham confirmed his limited role, stating he plans to “stay in the background” and simply observe. The unusual coaching transition raises legitimate questions about Michigan’s focus and mental readiness entering a high-stakes bowl game.

Texas Riding Momentum into Bowl Season

Unlike Michigan, Texas enters the Citrus Bowl with momentum and stability. The Longhorns closed the regular season with a crucial rivalry win over Texas A&M, boosting confidence heading into postseason play.

Although Texas is dealing with several defensive opt-outs, the program remains intact offensively, particularly at the quarterback position. The Longhorns view this bowl game as an opportunity to build continuity and set the tone for the 2026 season.

Quarterback Showdown: Arch Manning vs Bryce Underwood

One of the most compelling storylines in the Texas vs Michigan Citrus Bowl is the quarterback duel between two former No. 1 overall recruits.

Arch Manning (Texas)

Redshirt sophomore
Former No. 1 player in the Class of 2023
Finished the season strong after early inconsistencies
Expected to benefit from Michigan’s weakened pass rush

Bryce Underwood (Michigan)

True freshman starter
2,229 passing yards
61.1% completion rate
9 passing TDs, 6 INTs
5 rushing touchdowns

Underwood’s freshman season has been solid but uneven, and facing Texas’ defensive depth—despite opt-outs—will be one of his toughest tests yet.

Key Opt-Outs and Matchup Factors

Michigan Opt-Outs

Michigan will be without its top pass rushers Derrick Moore and Jaishawn Barham, both honorable mention All-Big Ten selections. Their absence significantly weakens Michigan’s ability to pressure Manning.

Texas Opt-Outs

Texas will miss standout linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. and safety Michael Taaffe, among others. Newly appointed defensive coordinator Will Muschamp will use this game to evaluate depth players for next season.

Despite these losses, Michigan’s offense lacks the explosiveness to fully capitalize on Texas’ defensive absences.

Texas vs Michigan Prediction and Pick

With Michigan facing internal instability, key defensive opt-outs, and a limited offensive ceiling, Texas holds the clear edge in this matchup.

Arch Manning should have time in the pocket, and Texas’ offensive consistency contrasts sharply with Michigan’s disrupted preparation. The psychological impact of Michigan’s coaching turmoil cannot be ignored, especially in a bowl environment.

Final Prediction

Pick: Texas -7.5
Projected Score: Texas 31, Michigan 20

Texas appears to be the steadier, more prepared team, and that advantage should show on the field.

Betting Insight and Final Thoughts

For bettors analyzing Texas vs Michigan odds and spread, Texas covering the spread remains the most logical play. Michigan’s lack of pass rush and unsettled coaching situation create too many disadvantages against a motivated Longhorns squad.

As the 2025 Citrus Bowl closes out another college football season, this matchup offers intrigue, star power, and a glimpse into the future for both programs.

By Md Zamal Uddin