Ohio State pumped over $20 million into (NIL) Name, Image, and Likeness deals last year by building a roster that stormed through the playoffs and snagged a national title. Texas is stepping up to the plate, reportedly spending a jaw-dropping $35-40 million on its present 2025 squad.
The Longhorns have their focus set on redemption after falling to Ohio State in last year’s College Football Playoff semifinal. With a Week 1 showdown against the Buckeyes on the horizon, Texas is loading up for a season that could define their program for years to come.
Texas Doubles Its Firepower After Ohio State Sets the Standard With Statement Win
Ohio State’s $20 million NIL war chest in the 2024 campaign was a wake-up call for the sport. Bringing in game-changers like quarterback Will Howard and running back Quinshon Judkins, the Buckeyes didn’t just win; they dominated, capping it off with a statement victory over Notre Dame in the national championship.
Texas took notes. After getting bounced by Ohio State in the playoffs, the Longhorns are returning with a vengeance next season, having spent $35-40 million on roster building. At the top of the heap is Arch Manning, the former five-star recruit who is now the face of the program.
Ohio State spent over $20 million in NIL last year, but this season one team is reportedly doubling that: the Texas Longhorns. ⬇️⬇️ pic.twitter.com/PX2H75D6iR
— Adam Breneman (@AdamBreneman81) May 10, 2025
With Quinn Ewers off to the NFL, Manning’s got the keys to the offense, and his $6 million NIL haul reflects the faith Texas has in him.
But we aren’t just talking about one player; the program has stacked its roster with talent, pulling in five five-star recruits for 2025 and leaning on playmakers like running back Quintrevion Wisner and linebacker Anthony Hill.
This is not a rebuild; it is a reload and aimed square at Ohio State. When these two teams collide in Week 1, it’ll be a heavyweight fight between the sport’s biggest spenders.
Texas isn’t messing around in 2025. They’ve got the cash, the talent, and the hunger to take down Ohio State and anyone else in their way. But it gets tricky here: money can buy players, not victories. The Buckeyes showed last year that it’s about spending smart, not just big. Texas has the tools, but Sarkisian and crew must make it work on the field.
KEEP READING: Where Does Texas Rank in New NIL-Era College Football Job Rankings? Here’s the List
The Week 1 clash will tell us a lot. They could ride that momentum to the playoff if Texas pulls it off. If they stumble, the doubters will pounce.
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