In a candid discussion at the SEC Media Days, Texas coach Steve Sarkisian reflected on the challenging rivalry between the Longhorns and the Arkansas Razorbacks. Sarkisian expressed his desire for a better performance from his team during their 2021 visit to Fayetteville, where they suffered a 40-21 loss that led to a change in starting quarterback.

Recalling a previous encounter between the two teams, Sarkisian highlighted the passionate nature of Arkansas fans. He playfully remarked, "I feel like when you go to Arkansas, (at times it) feels like they hate Texas more than they like themselves. That's a real rivalry. That's when you know you're in a real rivalry." He expressed excitement about the upcoming game against the Razorbacks and acknowledged the rarity of playing three rivalry games in the regular season.

At the SEC Media Days, Arkansas coach Sam Pittman concurred with Sarkisian's assessment of the intensity displayed by Arkansas fans towards Texas. Pittman noted that while Texas has evolved as a team since their last encounter, he expressed contentment about playing the Longhorns at home once again. Pittman acknowledged that the early-morning game might not provide an equal advantage, but he agreed that the rivalry sentiment is strong among Arkansas fans.

The game between Texas and Arkansas is scheduled for November 16, marking another chapter in their historical rivalry. Although the Longhorns and Razorbacks have faced each other 79 times in the past, only six meetings have occurred in the last 30 years. As Texas embarks on its first season as an SEC member, they will also face off against Oklahoma and Texas A&M, adding to the excitement surrounding their conference realignment.

Sarkisian expressed gratitude for having regained two of their historic rivalry games and underscored the significance of maintaining these matchups despite the challenges of realignment. He sees this move to the SEC as an opportunity for Texas to embrace the renewed rivalries and build upon the rich tradition of competition between these storied programs.

The upcoming clash between Texas and Arkansas is sure to capture the attention of football fans nationwide as both teams seek to assert their dominance in this age-old rivalry. With renewed enthusiasm and a newfound conference affiliation, the Longhorns aim to put their best foot forward against the Razorbacks, who are determined to defend their home turf once again.