When October rolls around, you can count on a few things:
Cooler weather, colorful leaves, and state fairs. Let’s be honest, nothing says October quite like funnel cake and fried Snickers, right? However, if we look deeper into annual fall traditions, we can find something even more jovial and festive- the Red River shootout.
And what a coincidence that the Texas State Fair is right next door to the Cotton Bowl, where Texas and Oklahoma play.
But enough about fried treats and succulent sweets, let’s talk about the game.
Fact and Opinion–
Fact-Texas and Oklahoma both meet undefeated for the first time since 2011. Yes, it’s hard to believe these storied programs have been on hard times as of late, but they’re both hopeful a renaissance of their football program has arrived and will endure with their entry into the SEC.
Fact– Both teams are playing their last season in the Big 12(In the SEC in 2024). It’s no secret that both Texas and OU are leaving the Big 12 for the SEC next season, but it must be bittersweet to play one final time under the Big 12 banner.
Fact– Both teams have great signal callers along with a high-scoring offense. Dillion Gabriel and Quinn Ewers are two of the best Quarterbacks in college football and I believe they both will put on a show Saturday in the Cotton Bowl.
Fact or Opinion? – The Sooners need this win more than Texas so I say fact. Why? After the Longhorns curb-stomped OU last year (49-0), the Sooners will be out for revenge. Coach Venables knows how much this game means and he knows it’s the last one in the Big 12. This is how you impress Commissioner Greg Sankey and the rest of the SEC-You upset the #3 team in the nation and show them you’re the top dog of your conference.
What does this game come down to? Quarterback play, it’s as simple as that. Which Quarterback has more time to throw and make plays? I think you will see Coach Venables dial up the blitz a lot on Saturday. However, Ewers can be mobile so it will be a tough task for Oklahoma.
It’s been a while since the game meant something and it’s been a long time since both teams were in the spotlight. This year, all eyes will be looking at the Cotton Bowl.
The stadium will be half burn orange and half burgundy. In my opinion, this is what college football is all about- tradition, pageantry, and rivalries.
Enjoy the Red River Shootout this Saturday at noon on ABC.
JDubb's Sideline Report 