August 22, 2026
Texas dismisses LB Ty'Anthony Smith weeks before Ohio State showdown
The third-year linebacker is out of the program as Texas prepares for a marquee Week 2 matchup against the Buckeyes.
Texas dismissed starting linebacker Ty'Anthony Smith from the program on Friday, removing a key defensive contributor just weeks before the Longhorns host Ohio State in what figures to be one of the most anticipated early-season matchups in college football.
Smith, who was entering his third year with Texas, appeared in 28 games over two seasons and made one start in 2025. He finished last season with 60 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks, two interceptions, three pass breakups, and two forced fumbles. As a true freshman in 2024, he played in all 16 games and recorded 16 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, one interception, and a pass breakup after signing with Texas as a three-star recruit.
Roster overhaul at linebacker fuels departure
The dismissal comes amid significant changes to Texas's defensive staff and linebacker room. New defensive coordinator Will Muschamp, hired over the offseason, has been looking for different qualities at the position, creating increased competition for playing time. The Longhorns also added four transfer linebackers this offseason — Rasheem Biles from Pittsburgh, Justin Cryer from Florida State, Markus Boswell from Akron, and Darius Snow from Michigan State — further crowding the depth chart. Smith's practice participation had been sparse in the weeks leading up to the move.
The loss of Smith adds to a growing list of concerns for Texas ahead of the Ohio State game. Offensive lineman Trevor Goosby is also dealing with a knee injury that could keep him from being fully healthy for the Week 2 contest. Last season, Texas ranked 97th nationally in passing yards allowed, giving up 234.9 yards per game — a vulnerability Smith had helped address with his coverage work.
Ohio State, which brings new offensive coordinator Arthur Smith into the fold for 2026, has faced the Longhorns in each of the last two seasons and has not struggled significantly to move the ball in either meeting. Texas opens the 2026 season against Texas State on Saturday, Sept. 5, at 2:30 p.m. CT on ESPN before the Buckeyes come to Austin in Week 2.
