In the current context, if Texas beats Texas A&M, it mainly affects bragging rights in the state, Texas A&M’s standing in the SEC race, and both teams’ College Football Playoff positioning.

SEC and playoff impact

• A Texas win hands Texas A&M a key late-season loss, which can knock the Aggies out of control of their path to the SEC title game and may force them to rely on other contenders (like Alabama or Ole Miss) losing.

• The loss typically drops Texas A&M several spots in the playoff rankings, turning a near-lock playoff résumé into a much more uncertain bid.

What it does for Texas

• Beating a highly ranked, previously undefeated Texas A&M gives Texas one of the best wins of any contender and keeps its own playoff hopes alive, even if the Longhorns already have multiple losses.

• The victory strengthens Texas’ overall résumé (multiple wins over top‑10 opponents), fuels media and conference lobbying for a playoff spot, and solidifies in‑state bragging rights heading into bowl and playoff selections.

Rivalry and future ramifications

• In the rivalry itself, a Texas win extends A&M’s drought in the series and increases pressure on the Aggies’ staff and players, especially given the expectations attached to a top‑three team.

• Both programs still usually have postseason games ahead, but the paths diverge: Texas argues for inclusion in the expanded playoff, while A&M shifts from chasing a top seed and SEC title to securing the best remaining playoff or bowl position it can.