Texas vs. Oklahoma 2024: The Red River Rivalry Continues
When it comes to college football, few games can match the intensity, history, and spectacle of the Red River Rivalry between the Texas Longhorns and the Oklahoma Sooners. This iconic matchup, played annually at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Texas, as part of the State Fair of Texas, isn’t just a game—it’s a tradition that dates back to 1900. Fast forward to 2024, and this year’s edition promises to be as electrifying as ever, with both teams battling for supremacy in what could be a season-defining clash.
A Historic Rivalry
The Texas-Oklahoma rivalry, often referred to as the "Red River Showdown," has long been one of college football’s fiercest and most anticipated games. The annual meeting of these two storied programs is more than just a contest for bragging rights—it often has major implications for the Big 12 Conference title, and in many cases, the national championship picture.
The rivalry itself transcends football. It’s a border war, with Texas and Oklahoma fans divided by geography but united by their passion for the sport. The Cotton Bowl, located roughly halfway between Austin and Norman, transforms into a sea of burnt orange and crimson each October, with half the stadium filled with Longhorns fans and the other half with Sooners supporters. The atmosphere is electric, and the stakes are always sky-high.
The 2024 Season: What’s at Stake?
In 2024, the stakes are as high as they’ve ever been. Both Texas and Oklahoma are coming into this game with strong teams, and the winner will likely have a significant advantage in the race for the Big 12 Championship—and potentially a berth in the College Football Playoff.
Texas Longhorns: A Team on the Rise
Texas, under head coach Steve Sarkisian, is coming off one of its most successful seasons in years. After making major strides in 2023, the Longhorns are aiming to build on that momentum and reclaim their status as one of the elite programs in college football. The talent on the roster is undeniable, with a mix of experienced veterans and exciting young players ready to make their mark.
One of the key players to watch for Texas is quarterback Arch Manning, the latest in a legendary family of football quarterbacks. After gaining experience in his freshman year, Manning is poised to take a big step forward in 2024. His arm strength, football IQ, and ability to make plays under pressure make him the focal point of Texas’s high-powered offense.
Surrounding Manning are a wealth of weapons, including wide receiver Xavier Worthy, one of the most explosive playmakers in college football. On defense, Texas has a solid front seven led by linebacker Jaylan Ford, who anchors a unit that has steadily improved under Sarkisian’s leadership.
Texas fans believe that 2024 could be the year the Longhorns truly return to national prominence, and a win over Oklahoma in the Red River Rivalry would be a huge step toward achieving that goal.
Oklahoma Sooners: Redemption and Revival
For Oklahoma, the 2024 season represents an opportunity to bounce back after a couple of years of transition under head coach Brent Venables. Known for his defensive prowess, Venables has been working to restore the Sooners to their former glory after a disappointing season in 2022. In 2023, Oklahoma showed signs of improvement, and 2024 could be the year they reestablish themselves as a powerhouse in college football.
Quarterback Jackson Arnold, one of the most highly-touted recruits in the country, is set to lead the Sooners’ offense. Arnold’s dual-threat ability makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and his athleticism allows Oklahoma to run a more dynamic offense that can stretch the field both vertically and horizontally. With a solid offensive line and a talented group of skill players, including running back Jovantae Barnes and wide receiver Jayden Gibson, the Sooners’ offense has the potential to light up the scoreboard.
Defensively, Oklahoma has been focusing on getting back to the hard-nosed, aggressive play that defined their teams in the early 2000s. Under Venables, the Sooners have improved their tackling and ability to create turnovers, and they will need every bit of that defensive grit to stop Texas’s potent offense.
Key Matchups to Watch
Arch Manning vs. Oklahoma’s Defense
Manning’s ability to read defenses and make quick decisions will be tested by Oklahoma’s aggressive defensive schemes. The Sooners will likely try to pressure Manning with blitzes and force him into making mistakes, but if he can stay calm and find his playmakers downfield, Texas could have a big day offensively.Jackson Arnold vs. Texas’s Secondary
Arnold’s mobility and passing ability will be crucial in keeping Oklahoma’s offense moving. Texas’s secondary, led by cornerback Terrance Brooks, will need to be sharp to contain Arnold’s deep throws and prevent Oklahoma from hitting big plays. If Texas can keep Arnold in the pocket and limit his rushing opportunities, they will have a good chance of slowing down the Sooners’ offense.Texas’s Run Game vs. Oklahoma’s Front Seven
The battle in the trenches will be pivotal in determining the outcome of this game. Texas has a strong offensive line and a versatile backfield, with Jonathan Brooks and CJ Baxter sharing carries. If the Longhorns can establish the run and control the clock, it will keep Oklahoma’s explosive offense off the field. On the flip side, Oklahoma’s defensive front, led by defensive tackle Jacob Lacey, will be looking to stuff the run and force Texas into third-and-long situations.
The Atmosphere: More Than Just a Game
One of the most unique aspects of the Red River Rivalry is the setting. Played at the historic Cotton Bowl, the game is part of the State Fair of Texas, adding to the carnival-like atmosphere surrounding the event. The stadium, split right down the middle between Texas and Oklahoma fans, creates a deafening noise that adds to the intensity of every play. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a casual observer, the pageantry and passion of this game make it a must-watch event every year.
Prediction: A Nail-Biter in the Making
Both Texas and Oklahoma have the talent and coaching to win this game, and it could come down to the smallest of margins. Texas’s offense, led by Arch Manning, has the firepower to put points on the board, but Oklahoma’s defense, with its aggressive style under Venables, will be a tough challenge. On the other side, Jackson Arnold and the Sooners’ offense will test Texas’s defense with their speed and versatility.
In the end, this year’s Red River Rivalry could be one of the most competitive in recent memory. Expect a high-scoring affair, with both teams trading blows throughout the game. Ultimately, Texas’s experience at key positions and their improved defense might give them the edge.
Prediction: Texas 34, Oklahoma 31
No matter the outcome, one thing is certain: the 2024 Red River Rivalry will be another classic chapter in the storied history of this iconic matchup. Fans on both sides will be holding their breath until the final whistle, and the winner will take home not just a victory, but bragging rights for the next year.
