Unforgettable Moments in Red River History
The Red River Rivalry, pitting the Oklahoma Sooners against the Texas Longhorns, stands as one of college football's most storied and intense matchups. Played annually at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas during the State Fair of Texas, this clash has produced countless iconic plays since its inception in 1900. With the 121st meeting taking place on October 11, the excitement surrounding this game continues to captivate fans nationwide.
Among the most celebrated moments is Roy Williams' 'Superman' dive in 2001, a play that has become synonymous with the rivalry's intensity. With Oklahoma leading 7-3 and just over two minutes remaining, Williams, a safety for the Sooners, launched himself over the Texas offensive line to sack quarterback Chris Simms, forcing a fumble. The ball was intercepted by Teddy Lehman, who returned it for a touchdown, sealing a 14-3 victory for Oklahoma. This play, often replayed and discussed by fans, remains a defining highlight of the rivalry's history.
Recent Rivalry Highlights and Current Stakes
While Roy Williams' play is etched in history, the Red River Rivalry has continued to deliver memorable moments in recent years. In 2018, Texas pulled off a thrilling 48-45 upset over Oklahoma, with quarterback Sam Ehlinger leading a last-second drive to secure the win with a field goal. Such games underscore the unpredictable nature of this matchup, where momentum can shift in an instant, keeping fans on the edge of their seats.
As both teams joined the SEC in 2024, the stakes have arguably never been higher. The October 11 game features No. 6 Oklahoma bringing the nation's top-ranked defense into the Cotton Bowl to face a Texas squad eager to assert dominance. Key storylines include the status of Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer, whose performance could be pivotal. Coaches Brent Venables of Oklahoma and Steve Sarkisian of Texas, both serving as play-callers, add another layer of intrigue to this historic showdown.
Beyond the field, the rivalry's atmosphere is unmatched, with thousands of fans flocking to Dallas for a unique blend of football, fair food, and festivities. For some, like an Oklahoma graduate attending his 70th consecutive Red River game in 2025, this event is a lifelong tradition. As the teams battle for bragging rights and potentially shape the SEC title race, the legacy of plays like Williams' dive continues to inspire new generations of players and fans alike.