In the 120th meeting of the Red River Rivalry, top-ranked Texas displayed dominance over No. 18 Oklahoma, winning 34-3 in a game that marked the first clash between the two schools as members of the Southeastern Conference. Quarterback Quinn Ewers led the Longhorns with 199 passing yards, a touchdown, and a rushing score after returning from an abdominal strain that had kept him out of action for a while. Running back Quintrevion Wisner added 118 rushing yards and a touchdown, while the defense held the Sooners to just 237 total yards of offense.
Despite trailing early in the game for the first time this season, Texas was able to come back and secure the victory. Ewers connected with Gunnar Helm for a 7-yard touchdown early in the second quarter, giving the Longhorns a lead they would not relinquish. The win was crucial for Texas, who had lost five of the last six Red River Rivalry games against Oklahoma when both teams were in the Big 12 conference. The victory also extended Texas’ overall series advantage to 64-51-5.
Head coach Steve Sarkisian, in his fourth year at Texas, praised his team’s performance in all three phases of the game and emphasized the importance of being multi-dimensional. He highlighted the significance of the Red River Rivalry, calling it a unique and special game. Looking ahead, Texas will face the fifth-ranked Georgia Bulldogs in a highly anticipated matchup, scheduled for October 19 in Austin. Sarkisian, who previously served as offensive coordinator for Alabama under Nick Saban, brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the Longhorns.
The Red River Rivalry dates back to 1900 and has been played annually during the State Fair of Texas since 1929. The game’s name pays homage to the Red River that separates Texas and Oklahoma. Despite their recent struggles in the rivalry, Oklahoma’s offense continued to face issues in the latest matchup, managing only 89 rushing yards and 148 passing yards with no touchdowns. Freshman quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. led the Sooners’ offense, but they were unable to overcome Texas’ strong defensive performance.
Ewers expressed his excitement at returning to the field and acknowledged the challenges he faced early in the game. While there were some initial struggles, Ewers and the Longhorns were able to overcome adversity and secure a convincing win. Players like Wisner and Bolden also made significant contributions to the team’s success, with key plays that helped propel Texas to victory. The Longhorns’ comprehensive performance in all aspects of the game showcased their readiness and determination to compete at the highest level.
The annual meeting between Texas and Oklahoma is a highly anticipated event in college football, drawing fans and viewers from around the country. The historic rivalry between the two schools adds an extra layer of intensity and excitement to the matchup, making it a must-watch event for college football enthusiasts. As Texas looks ahead to their upcoming game against Georgia, the team will aim to build on their success against Oklahoma and continue their strong performance throughout the season. With talented players like Ewers and Wisner leading the way, the Longhorns are poised for a successful campaign in their pursuit of a national championship.
