Texas A&M hosts Texas at Kyle Field, reigniting the long-standing rivalry.

The rivalry between the Texas A&M Aggies and the Texas Longhorns is one of the most storied in college football. For decades, this annual showdown was one of the most highly anticipated games in the state of Texas, capturing the hearts of fans and drawing national attention. However, after Texas A&M’s move to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in 2012, the rivalry went dormant. The two teams were no longer scheduled to face off, leaving a void in college football’s most passionate and intense rivalries.

Now, after years of waiting, the Aggies and Longhorns will once again clash on the gridiron, as Texas A&M hosts Texas at Kyle Field. The game is more than just a football matchup—it’s a historic occasion that brings back a sense of tradition, pride, and fierce competition that has been missing from the college football landscape. For both fanbases, it’s a chance to rekindle a fierce rivalry that once defined Texas football and shaped the course of college athletics.

The History of the Rivalry

The Texas A&M vs. Texas rivalry dates back to 1894, making it one of the oldest and most bitter rivalries in college football history. The two teams first met when Texas A&M was still a military school, and Texas was firmly entrenched as one of the dominant programs in the state. Over the decades, the rivalry evolved from regional contests to games that had national implications, often affecting the outcome of the Southwest Conference (SWC) and later the Big 12.

One of the most iconic periods in the rivalry came in the 1990s and early 2000s, when the two teams regularly met on Thanksgiving Day, creating an atmosphere of competition and celebration. The games were often highly competitive, with both teams boasting elite talent and rosters filled with future NFL stars.

The rivalry, however, came to a halt in 2011 when Texas A&M announced it would leave the Big 12 for the SEC, joining a conference with more national prominence and a new, high-profile schedule. The move ended a long-standing tradition, and many fans were left disappointed by the prospect of no longer seeing their teams square off every season. As Texas has since announced its own move to the SEC as part of the latest conference realignment, the stage is now set for the two teams to rekindle one of college football’s greatest rivalries.

The Significance of the Game

The 2023 showdown between Texas A&M and Texas is significant for several reasons. First and foremost, it represents the renewal of a fierce rivalry that has been dormant for over a decade. Both teams will come into this game with plenty to prove, as they look to re-establish themselves as contenders in the SEC.

For Texas A&M, this is an opportunity to assert its position as a legitimate power in the SEC. Since joining the conference in 2012, the Aggies have experienced both highs and lows. They have shown flashes of brilliance, including a 2012 Heisman Trophy-winning season by quarterback Johnny Manziel, but have also struggled at times to maintain consistent success. A victory over Texas would be a significant boost to Jimbo Fisher’s program, showing that the Aggies are not only a strong force in the SEC but also ready to reclaim the title of the best team in Texas.

For Texas, the game is equally important. After years of struggling in the Big 12 and failing to meet the high expectations placed on the program, the Longhorns are looking for a statement win. The Steve Sarkisian-led Texas squad is in a rebuilding phase, and the program has its sights set on competing with the best teams in college football. Beating Texas A&M in their first season back in the SEC would be a major feather in their cap, signaling that they’re prepared to take on the best of the best, starting with their old rivals.

The game is also important because of the recruiting implications. Texas A&M and Texas both recruit heavily within the state, and a rivalry game like this can often swing the momentum in recruiting battles for years to come. The winner of this game will gain bragging rights, but also a recruiting advantage as high school prospects look for programs with a proven track record of success and a strong identity within the state.

What to Expect from Texas A&M

Texas A&M has always been known for its physicality and toughness, and under head coach Jimbo Fisher, the Aggies have developed a solid foundation built on both sides of the ball. The team’s strength lies in its defensive line and ability to control the line of scrimmage. With a defense that is among the best in the SEC, led by players like Demani Richardson in the secondary and Edgerrin Cooper at linebacker, Texas A&M has the pieces to shut down even the most potent offensive units in the country.

On offense, the Aggies have a balanced attack, featuring a strong running game and a capable passing game. The team’s offensive line is one of the most underrated units in the SEC, opening up holes for running backs like Le’Veon Moss and Amari Daniels. The passing game has been a work in progress, but with talented quarterbacks like Conner Weigman, the Aggies can stretch the field and keep opposing defenses on their toes.

Texas A&M’s Kyle Field is one of the most intimidating environments in college football. Known for its deafening noise and passionate fanbase, the stadium creates an atmosphere that gives the Aggies a distinct home-field advantage. “The 12th Man”, a term that originated from A&M’s tradition of having players ready to step up at any moment, symbolizes the energy and commitment of the Aggies’ fans. It’s a place where opponents often struggle to hear themselves think, let alone execute plays, and that will be a key factor in this highly anticipated showdown against the Longhorns.

What to Expect from Texas

The Texas Longhorns come into this matchup with a renewed sense of purpose. After several years of mediocrity under previous head coaches, the program finally seems to be on the rise under Steve Sarkisian. The Longhorns have a dynamic offensive scheme led by quarterback Quinn Ewers, a former 5-star recruit who possesses elite arm talent and the ability to stretch the field with ease. Ewers will need to show poise in the face of a fierce Texas A&M pass rush, but if he can find his rhythm, he has the tools to make plays against even the toughest defenses.

The Texas offense revolves around its playmakers. With Bijan Robinson now in the NFL, the Longhorns will lean heavily on Jonte Cook, Xavier Worthy, and Jordan Whittington as their key receiving options. Texas has a strong running back committee, featuring Roschon Johnson and Keilan Robinson, and their ability to control the game with a balanced attack will be crucial to keeping the Aggie defense on its heels.

Defensively, Texas will have to step up. The Longhorns have the talent in the front seven, including Byron Murphy, Ovie Oghoufo, and Jalen Ford, but they’ll be facing one of the most physical teams in the SEC. Stopping the run will be a point of emphasis, as Texas A&M is known for its power running game. The secondary will also need to be sharp in coverage to slow down A&M’s talented receivers and tight ends. Texas will also need to create pressure on the quarterback to prevent the Aggies from establishing their offensive rhythm.

Key Matchups

• Texas A&M’s Defensive Line vs. Texas Offensive Line: One of the most exciting matchups will be between A&M’s dominant defensive line and Texas’ offensive line, which has been inconsistent at times. The Aggies’ ability to disrupt the pocket and stifle Texas’ run game will be critical. Texas will need to find ways to keep Ewers upright and create lanes for the running backs.
• Conner Weigman vs. Quinn Ewers: The quarterback battle will be another intriguing element. Both are young, talented signal-callers with strong arm strength and high ceilings. Whichever quarterback can avoid turnovers and make plays in critical moments will likely lead their team to victory.
• Texas A&M’s Running Game vs. Texas Defensive Front: Both teams feature talented running backs and strong offensive lines, so the ability to establish the ground game will be key. Texas A&M’s physical style of running and ability to wear down defenses could give them the edge if they control the clock.
• Kyle Field Atmosphere: The atmosphere at Kyle Field will play a huge role. It’s one of the toughest environments for opposing teams, and Texas will need to handle the noise and pressure. The 12th Man will undoubtedly make its presence known, and Texas will need to stay focused throughout the game.