Every fall, one of college football’s most legendary rivalries takes over the heart of Dallas. The Allstate Red River Rivalry returns to Cotton Bowl Stadium on Saturday, October 11, bringing the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners face-to-face in a clash that’s been igniting fans since 1929. With kickoff set for 2:30 p.m., expect more than 100,000 fans filling the stands—half burnt orange, half crimson, all roaring with pride.
The setting makes this game unlike any other. Held during the State Fair of Texas, the matchup pairs gridiron drama with all the sights, sounds and tastes of the fairgrounds. Arrive early to soak up the atmosphere, and enjoy a Fletcher’s corny dog while wandering through the midway to find the ultimate fan photo ops.
On the field, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Beyond bragging rights, the teams compete for the Golden Hat trophy, a symbol of dominance in a series that has produced unforgettable moments for more than a century. Every snap carries history, and every play has the potential to become the stuff of legend.
There's quite a cool local tie-in, as well. Three former Carroll Dragons will be wearing either the burnt orange of Texas or the Sooner red: Texas linebacker Eric Garza, and Oklahoma defensive back Preston Mickens and wide receiver Jacob Jordan. Garza joined Texas as a preferred walk-on and made his debut against Sam Houston. Jordan, who is also a walk-on, played in seven games last year, making one start. Mickens has not seen the field yet this season.
For fans, it’s more than just a game—it’s a tradition that blends community, competition and culture in one unforgettable Saturday. Whether cheering from the stands or soaking it all in from the fairgrounds, the Red River Rivalry delivers a day of excitement not to be missed.
DETAILS
Oct. 11
Cotton Bowl Stadium