By Alex Al-Kazzaz
Texas vs. Oklahoma. The Red River Rivalry. A college football rivalry that has been around for well over 120 years. A total of 118 meetings between the two schools with Texas leading the all-time series 63-50-5. This rivalry has seen many historical moments with many well-known legendary coaches and athletes. A rivalry that has made a massive impact not only on college football but on sports overall.
Last year's meeting resulted in Texas winning 49-0. Oklahoma had a terrible 2022 while Texas had struggles of their own. Since 2010, Oklahoma has amassed a 10-4 record against Texas. Texas has not won two straight against Oklahoma in over 15 years. Texas is 5-0 for the first time since 2009. Both teams are coming into this game undefeated and ranked with Texas being #3 and Oklahoma #12.
Oklahoma is looking to avenge what happened last year at the Cotton Bowl. In last year's contest, the Sooners were so unmotivated and passionless that they were a completely disoriented team that Texas took advantage of. The Sooners want to return the favor and upset the Longhorns. For Texas, a loss can surely guarantee that a College Football playoff berth will not happen. For Oklahoma, a loss will just push them down the rankings. It's clear that both sides have a lot at stake going into this contest.
Texas is clearly the favorite. Quinn Ewers is a legit dual-threat quarterback based on the season he's having. The Texas running game looks to be a threat and the Texas defense at times has made errors but manages to pull through. Oklahoma has yet to face a challenge and Texas is the first ranked team they face. A few weeks ago, Texas beat Alabama on the road. Regardless, Oklahoma is NOT to be underestimated.
It's obvious that this is a must-win for both, but Texas is not the side that has nothing to lose. As mentioned previously, Texas is looking to qualify for the College Football Playoffs for the first time. There's still a long road ahead for Texas. Oklahoma, like Texas, is looking to return to the top ranks. This Saturday is an important day for the Sooners and Longhorns.