Two of college football’s most storied programs meet on New Year’s Eve as Michigan and Texas square off in the 2025 Cheez It Citrus Bowl at Camping World Stadium in Orlando. It is only the third time these winning giants have faced each other, and Michigan is still searching for its first victory against the Longhorns.
History favors the spectacle. Michigan enters with 1,021 all time wins, the most in NCAA history, while Texas ranks fifth with 964. Despite that pedigree, recent results lean toward the Longhorns. Texas stunned Michigan in Ann Arbor earlier this season and previously edged the Wolverines in the 2005 Rose Bowl. Another chapter is coming, with a future meeting already scheduled in Austin in 2027, but the immediate focus is Orlando.
Who Has the Edge
Texas appears to be the more complete team heading into bowl season. The Longhorns proved they could win big games late, closing the year with a victory over Texas A and M and stacking wins over Oklahoma and Vanderbilt earlier in the season. Quarterback Arch Manning showed steady growth, throwing 13 touchdowns and just two interceptions over his final seven games.
Michigan’s path has been more uneven. The Wolverines struggled against ranked opponents and showed signs of offensive inconsistency late in the year. Freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood hit a rough stretch down the stretch, throwing more interceptions than touchdowns over the final five games. Questions surrounding Michigan’s running back health only add to the concern.
Betting Outlook
Moneyline Michigan minus 168 Texas plus 205
Spread Texas favored by 5.5 points
Over under 46.5 points
Despite Michigan being favored on the moneyline, the spread reflects confidence in Texas controlling the game.
Sports Club Florida Prediction
Michigan’s defense will keep this one competitive early, but Texas has more proven firepower and better quarterback play heading into bowl season. If Arch Manning continues his late season form, the Longhorns should have enough to pull away in the second half.
Prediction Texas 24 Michigan 17
Kickoff is set for Wednesday Dec. 31 at 3 p.m. on ABC, with Orlando playing host to one of the most tradition rich matchups of bowl season.
THE CONVERSATION.