This is it! The week you’ve been waiting 13 years to see.
The rivalry between the Texas A&M Aggies and the Texas Longhorns is one of the most storied in college football. Here are some key facts about this historic matchup:
1. Origins and History
• First Meeting: The rivalry began on October 19, 1894, with the Longhorns winning 38-0.
• Series Record: As of their last meeting in 2011, Texas leads the all-time series with 76 wins, 37 losses, and 5 ties.
• Conference Rivalry: Both teams were members of the Southwest Conference and later the Big 12 Conference before Texas A&M moved to the SEC in 2012.
2. Thanksgiving Tradition
• The rivalry was often played on Thanksgiving Day or Thanksgiving weekend, becoming a cherished part of Texas football tradition.
3. Memorable Games
• 1927 “Game of the Century”: Texas A&M secured a 28-7 victory in a game where they debuted their “12th Man” tradition.
• 1998 Upset: Texas A&M defeated the No. 6 Longhorns 26-24, ending their hopes for a BCS National Championship.
• 2011 Finale: In their last matchup before A&M’s SEC move, Texas won 27-25 with a game-winning field goal by Justin Tucker.
4. Traditions and Symbols
• Aggies’ Bonfire: The annual bonfire built by Texas A&M students symbolized their “burning desire to beat Texas.” The tradition was paused after the 1999 collapse tragedy but remains a powerful symbol.
• “Horns Down” vs. “Hook ’em Horns”: Fans from both schools use hand gestures to symbolize their rivalry, with Aggies often mocking the Longhorns’ “Hook ’em Horns.”
5. Conference Realignment Impact
• The rivalry was put on hold after Texas A&M left the Big 12 for the SEC in 2012.
• Renewal Announcement: With Texas set to join the SEC in 2024, the rivalry is expected to resume, reigniting the storied tradition.
6. Cultural Significance
• The rivalry divides families, friends, and communities across Texas, with fans fiercely loyal to their respective schools.
• It’s about more than football, symbolizing the deep-seated competition between the schools’ academics, traditions, and pride.
This rivalry has been a cornerstone of Texas sports culture, and its return is highly anticipated.