#6 BYU vs. #11 Texas Prediction, Odds, & How to Watch: March Madness® 2026
#6 BYU and #11 Texas meet at the Moda Center for a high-stakes West Region matchup.Here are details, our prediction, and how to watch with Sling TV.
The No. 6 seed BYU Cougars enter the tournament after a record-setting season, ranking top-10 nationally in offensive efficiency and three-pointers made. They face a battle-tested No. 11 seed Texas Longhorns squad that punched their ticket through the First Four with a high-octane offensive performance. With both teams favoring a fast-paced, perimeter-heavy attack, this matchup promises to be one of the highest-scoring battles of the first round.
To watch the Cougars vs. Longhorns First Round game with Sling, use the link below for a 1 Day Pass subscription to TBS and add the Entertainment Extras pack or a monthly subscription to Sling Blue.
BYU Cougars Analysis
● Season Overview: BYU (25-9) finished as a top-tier contender in the Big 12, powered by an offense that ranks 15th nationally in efficiency. The Cougars have thrived on ball movement and spacing, leading the country in three-point attempts for much of the season.
● Star Player: Egor Demin (G). The standout freshman and projected top NBA pick leads the Cougars in playmaking, averaging 15.4 points and 6.8 assists while anchoring their perimeter attack.
● The X-Factor: Three-Point Volume. BYU attempts over 30 three-pointers per game.
If their shooters find their rhythm early, they can stretch the Texas defense to its breaking point and prevent the Longhorns from packing the paint.
Texas Longhorns Analysis
● Season Overview: Texas (21-12) secured their spot after a thrilling First Four win over NC State, marking their highest-scoring season since 1995. Under head coach Rodney Terry, the Longhorns have embraced a transition-heavy style that exploits defensive lapses.
● Star Player: Tre Johnson (G). The elite freshman scorer averages 18.9 PPG and has proven capable of taking over games in high-pressure environments, as seen in his dominant conference tournament run.
● The Upset Formula: Transition Scoring. Texas excels at turning defensive rebounds into immediate points; if they can force BYU into long misses and run the floor, they can negate the Cougars' set-defense advantages.
Key Matchup & Advanced Analytics
● Position Battle: The Perimeter Duel. The matchup between Tre Johnson and Egor Demin features two of the most talented young guards in the country. Their ability to handle pressure and facilitate for their respective shooters will dictate the tempo of the game.
● Statistical Edge: BYU holds the advantage in adjusted offensive efficiency and rebounding margin, while Texas enters with the momentum of a First Four victory and a superior turnover-forcing rate.
● Betting Trends: BYU is a narrow favorite, but Texas has been strong as an underdog this season, going 5-2 against the spread in their last seven games. The total of 159.5 is one of the highest of the opening round, reflecting both teams' offensive firepower.
Final Prediction & Betting Pick
● The Verdict: BYU Cougars
● Final Score Prediction: BYU 84, Texas 80
● Best Bet: Over 159.5
Frequently Asked Questions
● Who is the favorite in the game between Cougars and Longhorns? BYU is a narrow 2.5-point favorite according to DraftKings Sportsbook.
● Where can I stream the 2026 NCAA Tournament? Stream the entire Men’s Tournament by subscribing to Sling Blue and watch CBS games at the NCAA website.
● What time is the game? Tip-off is at 7:25 PM ET on TBS.