The History: The Red River Rivalry a.k.a. the Red River Shootout is the annual battle for pride between the University of Texas Longhorns and the University of Oklahoma Sooners. It is arguably the greatest rivaly in American sports. For both teams, the rivalry is bitterly emotional and territorial in nature relating to the two states’ close proximity, past border disputes and economic and cultural differences.
Texas State Fairgrounds
The Venue: The series began in 1900 and has been played in Dallas since 1912. Dallas was chosen as a “neutral” site since it is situated approximately halfway between Austin, Texas and Norman, Oklahoma — the locations of UT and OU, respectively. Besides being the stomping grounds of local business Victory Sport Taekwondo, the Dallas Fair Grounds really only exists for one reason, TX/OU weekend. Vendors, investors and small business owners alike rely on this Texas phenomenon to propel their sales out of the red. Since the weather in Dallas has been quite gnarly the past week, I’m sure cotton candy sellers are rejoicing all around.
Isn't "OU" upside down when he looks at it? photo credit - Steve Sisney
The Atmosphere: Any blindfolded Dallasite can tell you when TX/OU weekend is approaching. The city inherently changes character. Burnt orange and crimson become acceptable work colors and all your co-workers coincidentally disappear after lunch on Friday. You really can’t blame anyone though. For a city that claims itself as a booming metropolis, there really isn’t anything the entire community can get behind. The Dallas Cowboys continue to disappoint and even Joe the plumber couldn’t get tickets to a game if he could afford it. With basketball season in its infancy, post graduates who have flocked to Dallas for jobs have a chance to taste the sweet flavor of college football again this very weekend.
Vince Young smelling the competition.
The Importance of being Orange: Since the 2006 National Championship domination commanded by the once golden Vince Young, the University of Texas brand has undeniably increased in merit and credibility. In an economy where times are hard and jobs are being cut without warning, a solid backing of a National Championship school definitely gets your name in the conversation. In short, Vince Young helped me get a job. With the new rise of local country boy Colt McCoy, my diploma is becoming more and more valuable. Yes, I like the game of football. Yes, I’ve been seen in the wave of burnt orange at Darrel K. Royal on more than one occasion. But after those short-lived super Saturdays, I’d like to think my allegiance towards Texas Football went towards something greater, contributions toward a bigger picture. So if you’re out at the Fairgrounds chomping down on turkey legs and fried butter at 10:00 a.m. or snuggied in your bed enjoying your day off, show a little color this Saturday. You never know, Colt Mccoy might be your best referral at your next job interview.
