Noah Rosenstein
Updated on: October 16, 2024 11:32 pm GMT
As the clock ticks down to one of college football’s most anticipated matchups, the Red River Showdown, excitement is brewing among fans and players alike. This Saturday, October 12, the top-ranked Texas Longhorns will face off against the No. 18 Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas. For the first time in years, Texas is not only a formidable opponent but also heavily favored, with a 14.5-point advantage according to FanDuel.
High Stakes in the Red River Rivalry
This year’s game marks the fifth time in the last seven outings that both teams are ranked as they enter the fierce rivalry. The Longhorns come into the contest with a perfect record of 5-0, while the Sooners sit at 4-1 following a challenging slate of games. The two teams often showcase their talents on the field in front of thousands of passionate fans, and this weekend promises to be no different.
Texas has been dominant, outscoring its opponents an impressive 35-12 on average this season. In contrast, Oklahoma is coming off a nail-biting win over Auburn, following earlier struggles against teams like Houston and Tulane, and a significant loss to No. 6 Tennessee. That defeat was especially defining for the Sooners as head coach Brent Venables pulled starting quarterback Jackson Arnold in favor of true freshman Michael Hawkins Jr. This decision has raised eyebrows and added intrigue to an already riveting matchup.
A Historic Rivalry
The all-time series between these two powerhouse teams leans in favor of Texas, which leads 63-51-5 historically. However, since 2000, Oklahoma has dominated with a 17-8 advantage, including a surprising win last year when they upset the then-No. 3 Longhorns 34-30. For Texas, this weekend’s game is not just about maintaining their top ranking; it’s about reversing the trend of losses in recent years.
As the teams prepare to clash, the legacy of previous meetings looms large. In the epic history of the Red River Rivalry, there have been eight instances where the underdog secured victory despite being ranked at least ten spots behind their opponent. The most notable upset occurred in 1982, when the Sooners, then unranked, defeated the No. 13 Longhorns, 28-22.
Here are some key facts about the historical upsets in this rivalry:
- The last time a lower-ranked team won the contest was in 1982.
- Out of the eight upsets, Oklahoma accomplished this feat only once, while Texas has managed seven such victories.
Looking Ahead to the Matchup
The excitement surrounding this year’s game is palpable, especially given the stakes. The Longhorns aim to not only preserve their undefeated status but also to demonstrate their dominance over a traditional rival. For the Sooners, this game represents a chance to reclaim their status and potentially build momentum going forward.
Key Players to Watch:
- Texas Longhorns: The Longhorns feature star quarterback Quinn Ewers, who has showcased impressive skills this season. His decision-making and ability to lead Texas’ offense will be crucial in this high-pressure game.
- Oklahoma Sooners: Freshman Michael Hawkins Jr. is already generating buzz with his dual-threat capability. His performance could be a game-changer as he leads Oklahoma against a tough Texas defense.
What’s at Stake?
The implications of the game extend beyond just bragging rights. It could shape the trajectories of both programs as they navigate through the remainder of the season. A win for Texas might solidify their status as a national title contender, while a victory for Oklahoma could reignite their season and restore confidence within the locker room.
Conclusion
As kickoff approaches, the suspense builds. The Red River Rivalry continues to be one of the highlights of college football. The combination of Texas’ strong start and Oklahoma’s potential for an upset creates an electrifying atmosphere. Football fans will be glued to their screens, eager to see if the Sooners can replicate past upsets, or whether Texas will assert its dominance once again. This epic encounter kicks off at 2:30 p.m. Central on ABC, promising a showdown filled with passion, intensity, and unforgettable moments.
If you’re interested, you can check out ABC’s sports coverage for more updates and analysis of the game.
