2025 Cotton Holdings Lone Star Showdown Update: Don’t Miss the Action on Friday, November 28 at 6:30 PM CT.
The stage is set for one of college football’s most anticipated events of the year: the 2025 Cotton Holdings Lone Star Showdown. This historic rivalry between the Texas A&M Aggies and the Texas Longhorns returns to Kyle Field on Friday, November 28, with kickoff scheduled for 6:30 PM CT. After more than a decade apart, the Aggies and Longhorns are back in the Southeastern Conference, reigniting a rivalry that has captivated fans for over a century.
The Lone Star Showdown dates back to 1894, making it one of the oldest rivalries in college football. The two teams have faced each other 118 times, with the Longhorns holding a slight edge in the series. However, the rivalry was put on hiatus in 2011 when Texas A&M joined the SEC, leaving fans longing for the return of this fierce competition. Now, with both teams reunited in the SEC, the Lone Star Showdown is back, and it’s bigger than ever.
In August 2024, Cotton Holdings, Inc., a Houston-based infrastructure support services company, was announced as the title sponsor of the Lone Star Showdown rivalry series. This partnership marks a new chapter in the rivalry’s history, with Cotton Holdings supporting all head-to-head contests between the two schools across various sports. The sponsorship includes a year-long scoring system to determine the winner of the annual Lone Star Showdown rivalry series trophy, adding an extra layer of excitement to each matchup.
Kyle Field, home of the Texas A&M Aggies, will be the epicenter of the Lone Star Showdown on November 28. Known as one of the most intimidating venues in college football, Kyle Field’s 102,733-seat capacity will be filled with passionate fans eager to witness the return of this historic rivalry. The atmosphere will be electric, with the 12th Man ready to make their presence felt.
The festivities begin on Friday, November 28, with the Fightin’ Texas Aggie Yell Practice at 5:30 PM CT. Head Coach Mike Elko and the Aggie football team will lead the crowd in traditional yells and chants, building anticipation for the game ahead. The evening will culminate with a Texas-sized 12th Man Fireworks Show, lighting up the night sky over Kyle Field.
As the clock strikes 6:30 PM CT, the Aggies and Longhorns will take the field for the 119th meeting between the two teams. Both squads have been preparing for this moment all season, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. With SEC standings on the line and the Lone Star Showdown trophy up for grabs, every play will be crucial.
The Lone Star Showdown isn’t just about the football game—it’s a weekend celebration of Texas pride and tradition. Here’s a look at some of the events fans can look forward to:
On Friday, November 28, following Yell Practice and the fireworks show, the Cotton Holdings Lone Star Showdown Concert will take place at Reed Arena. Doors open at 7:00 PM CT, with performances by Pat Green, Shane Smith and the Saints, and the Randy Rogers Band. This concert is a must-attend for country music fans looking to continue the celebration into the night.
On Saturday, November 29, the 13–0 Burn BBQ Cook-Off will bring together some of the best pitmasters in Texas for a friendly competition. This event, which dates back to 1920, is a nod to the rivalry’s rich history and offers fans a chance to sample some of the state’s finest barbecue.
Before the game on Saturday, the Texas A&M Corps of Cadets will march into Kyle Field, showcasing the university’s military tradition and adding to the pageantry of the day. This ceremony is a highlight for many fans and sets the tone for the game ahead.
Tickets for the Lone Star Showdown are in high demand, and fans are encouraged to purchase them early to secure their spot at Kyle Field. Parking around the stadium is limited, so it’s advisable to arrive early and consider using public transportation or rideshare services. For more information on tickets and parking, visit the Texas A&M Athletics website.
Can’t make it to Kyle Field? No problem. The Lone Star Showdown will be broadcast nationally on ESPN2, with Tom Hart and Dane Bradshaw providing the play-by-play and analysis. Locally, the game will be available on the Texas A&M Radio Network, including 1620 AM/94.5 FM, and worldwide on the 12th Man Mobile App. SiriusXM subscribers can tune in on channels 160 or 192.
The 2025 Cotton Holdings Lone Star Showdown is more than just a football game—it’s a celebration of tradition, rivalry, and the spirit of Texas. Whether you’re attending in person or watching from home, this weekend promises to be one for the ages. Don’t miss out on the action—mark your calendars for Friday, November 28, at 6:30 PM CT, and get ready for the return of the Lone Star Showdown.
