The 2017 Texas Longhorns football schedule delivered high stakes, marquee matchups, and a defining season under new leadership. This schedule blended historic rivals, tough conference tests, and a chance to reset the Longhorns program after a rebuilding year.
Below is a structured overview of the 2017 season, including key conference windows, marquee non-conference games, and bowl destination details.
| Category | Details | Date | Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Season Record | Overall 5–7, Big 12 4–5 | 2017 | 5 wins, 7 losses |
| Head Coach | Tom Herman (1st season) | Started 2017 | Coaching debut |
| Home Stadium | Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium | All home games | Austin, TX |
| Signature Loss | Texas at #7 Oklahoma | November 24 | 59–56 double OT |
| Signature Win | @ #3 Oklahoma State | October 28 | 41–38 |
| Big 12 Title Game | Not eligible (4th place finish) | — | Did not qualify |
2017 Season Narrative
Opening Week and Early Season Momentum
The 2017 campaign began with renewed energy as Tom Herman looked to install his identity quickly. Early non-conference wins provided stability and showcased emerging talent on both sides of the ball. These victories set the tone for a season where every game carried playoff implications in Big 12 contention.
Non-Conference Road Tests
Texas traveled to neutral and hostile sites early, proving it could compete away from home. Key road victories highlighted the versatility of the offense and the resilience of the defense. Each non-conference fixture built confidence heading into the prolonged Big 12 gauntlet.
Big 12 Conference Play
Conference Window Schedule
Within the Big 12, Texas faced a mix of division rivals and top-25 programs. Balancing quarterback development with win-now urgency defined many of these matchups. Close contests and late-game mistakes shaped the final conference standing for the Longhorns.
Marquee Matchup Analysis
The rivalry games against Oklahoma loomed largest, featuring dramatic finishes and national-stage implications. Texas needed consistent performances from skill players and steady quarterback play to stay competitive against elite opponents. Moments of individual brilliance kept the season competitive through November.
2017 Schedule Key Points
- Tom Herman’s first season brought a faster tempo and modern offensive scheme.
- Non-conference wins delivered early momentum before Big 12 challenges began.
- High-profile rivalry games against Oklahoma tested the program on a national stage.
- Close losses in Big 12 highlighted the thin margin between success and setback.
- Late-season opportunities provided development time for younger players.
- The schedule positioned Texas as a rising program with playoff aspirations.
Legacy and Program Direction
The 2017 Texas Longhorns football schedule served as a transitional platform that exposed strengths and clarified development priorities. The season’s competitive games and evolving leadership laid groundwork for future stability and sustained contention in the Big 12.
FAQ
Reader questions
How did the 2017 schedule impact the team’s Big 12 standing?
The mix of close Big 12 games and a tough non-conference slate created a season of inconsistency, contributing to a fourth-place finish and missing out on the conference championship game.
Which rivalry game defined the 2017 season most?
The Sooners rivalry at Oklahoma City in the regular season finale was the defining contest, featuring a dramatic double-overtime loss that underscored the high stakes of Texas–Oklahoma.
Did the coaching change influence the schedule execution?
Tom Herman’s arrival introduced a new offensive identity and practice culture, which showed in improved performances against quality opponents, even amid a competitive 5–7 record.
What were the critical moments in close Big 12 games?
Fourth-quarter turnovers and missed special-teams opportunities in tight conference matchups often shifted momentum, turning potentially winning records into a narrow final outcome.