No. 3 Texas is set to clash with No. 15 Texas A&M on Saturday night, reigniting a fierce rivalry that carries significant implications for the College Football Playoff and the SEC title race. This matchup is not just another game; it’s a historic encounter that fans have eagerly awaited for over a decade.
The historic rivalry returns
This game marks the first meeting between these two storied programs since 2011, a gap of more than 13 years. The rivalry, which dates back to the late 1800s, has been characterized by intense competition and memorable moments. With both teams now competing in the SEC, the stakes have never been higher, making this matchup a must-watch event for college football fans.
Last time Texas played Texas A&M in football
Let’s take a trip down memory lane to the last time these two teams faced off on November 24, 2011. At that time, Texas was struggling with a 6-4 record under head coach Mack Brown, while Texas A&M, led by Mike Sherman, had a 6-5 record. Both teams were out of the Big 12 title race, but the significance of this rivalry game loomed large, as it would be the last meeting for the foreseeable future.
The Aggies jumped out to an early lead, thanks to quarterback Ryan Tannehill, who orchestrated three scoring drives, giving A&M a 13-0 advantage. The Longhorns, however, found themselves in a tough spot, with their offense stalling early on, leading to six punts and a fumble. But just when it seemed like all hope was lost, Texas struck back with a touchdown pass from Case McCoy to Blaine Irby, narrowing the gap to 13-7.
As the game progressed, Texas showcased its resilience. The Longhorns’ defense intercepted Tannehill and returned it for a touchdown, bringing the score to 16-14. Despite A&M adding another field goal, Texas seized the momentum, scoring 10 points to take a 24-16 lead late in the third quarter.
However, the drama didn’t end there. The Aggies fought back, kicking a field goal to close the gap, and Tannehill threw a late touchdown to put A&M ahead 25-24 with just 1:42 remaining. A failed two-point conversion attempt left the door open for Texas.
And that’s when the magic happened. McCoy led a seven-play, 48-yard drive, culminating in a 40-yard field goal by kicker Justin Tucker, sealing a thrilling 27-25 victory for the Longhorns. Tucker later reflected on the moment, saying, “As soon as the ball left my foot, I see it’s going straight… it really sunk in that, man, we really just hit the dagger in this rivalry for many years to come.”
NFL players in the 2011 Texas vs. Texas A&M game
This memorable game featured several players who would go on to have successful careers in the NFL. Here’s a quick look at some of the future stars who participated:
| School | Position | Player | Drafted | Teams | Years |
| Texas A&M | QB | Ryan Tannehill | 1st Round, 2012 | MIA, TEN | 2012-present |
| Texas A&M | RB | Ben Malena | UDFA, 2014 | DAL*, HOU* | 2015-16 |
| Texas A&M | WR | Jeff Fuller | UDFA, 2012 | MIA*, SEA* | 2012-13, 2016 |
| Texas A&M | S | Steven Terrell | UDFA, 2013 | JAX, HOU, SEA, KAN, TEN | 2013-18 |
| Texas A&M | K | Randy Bullock | 5th Round, 2012 | HOU, NYJ, NYG, PIT, CIN, TEN | 2013-2023 |
| Texas | WR | Marquise Goodwin | 3rd Round, 2013 | BUF, SFO, CHI, SEA, CLE | 2013-23 |
| Texas | RB | Malcolm Brown | UDFA, 2015 | STL, LAR, MIA | 2015-2022 |
| Texas | K | Justin Tucker | UDFA, 2012 | BAL | 2012-Present |
| Texas | DB | Quandre Diggs | 6th Round, 2015 | DET, SEA, TEN | 2015-Present |
*Practice squad member
Texas vs. Texas A&M rivalry history
The rivalry between Texas and Texas A&M is not just about the games; it’s about tradition, pride, and a shared history. Separated by just 105 miles, the two schools have a long-standing animosity that is reflected in their fight songs. Texas’ "Texas Fight" and A&M’s "Aggie War Hymn" both capture the essence of this fierce competition.
Texas leads the all-time series with a record of 76-5-37. The first meeting took place on October 19, 1894, with Texas winning 38-0. The rivalry has seen its share of memorable moments, including the largest Texas victory (48-0 in 1898) and the largest A&M victory (42-10 in 1985).
Over the years, the rivalry has evolved. In the early 2000s, Texas dominated, but A&M turned the tide in the mid-1980s, winning several key matchups. The last game in 2011 was a bittersweet farewell, as both teams were on the verge of a new chapter in their respective conferences.
Looking ahead to Saturday’s showdown
As we approach Saturday’s game, excitement is palpable. The stakes are high, and the history is rich. Fans are ready to witness a battle that has been brewing for over a decade. Will Texas continue its dominance, or will Texas A&M seize the moment and stake its claim in this storied rivalry?
This game is more than just a contest; it’s a celebration of college football, a clash of traditions, and a chance for both teams to write a new chapter in their history. With College Football Playoff implications on the line, Saturday night promises to be an unforgettable experience for players and fans alike. Get ready for a showdown that’s sure to deliver drama, excitement, and a whole lot of heart!
