The Lone Star Showdown captivates the nation and fills the hearts of Texans

There is an inexplicable feeling that radiates through the bodies of Texas and Texas A&M fans when they are asked about what the Lone Star Showdown means to them. The hatred and passion behind the long-lived rivalry is truly unlike any other and, finally, it’s back.

This game just means more. The distaste that is shared between the Longhorn and Aggie fanbases is unmatched. For those who grew up as a fan of one of the teams, because you can never pull for both, and had their childhoods in Texas, this game means everything.

I’m one of those fans. I grew up in TX. My parents, my aunt, and all four of my grandparents went to Texas. I grew up riding to Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium – with a few too many styrofoam cups filled with some concoction that probably wasn’t allowed in the car. 

My grandfather grew up in Giddings, almost exactly halfway between Austin and College Station. I was raised in Austin. I bleed burnt orange.

Immediately, my morning started with tear-filled eyes and thoughts of my grandparents who have passed, memories of the game, and, of course, Justin Tucker’s walk-off field goal from 13 years ago.

As Rece Davis suggested for the ESPN College GameDay cast and crew saw off Varsity’s horns, my blood boiled. I felt my heart grow three sizes on Saturday when clips of Earl Campbell, Ricky Williams, and Colt McCoy played throughout the morning.

My anxiety only grew as the day progressed. Not only was it the reunion of the two bitter rivals but it was also for a spot in the SEC Championship game. Before I knew it, the rivalry had returned.

Of course, the SEC and ESPN and ABC somehow had to have the Aggie fight song playing, with closed captions, just before kickoff. My blood pressure flew through the roof. Texas A&M had the ball first and then there was no looking back.

Whether it was Quinn Ewers or Arch Manning, the Texas offense was ready. Whether it was Michael Taaffe or Liona Lefau, the defense was dominant.

Texas walked away with a 17-7 victory after a far-from-flawless but absolutely perfect game. My heart felt lighter as I went to bed knowing that the Lone Star Showdown had taken place – it didn’t hurt that the Longhorns had a double-digit victory.

Now, a new generation of Aggies and Longhorns will build up their own version of the rivalry, the hatred, and the passion. The Lone Star Showdown is back and hopefully, this time, it’s here to stay.

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