Texas A&M vs. Texas — Lone Star split heats back up originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
No rivalry reflects Texas pride better than the Lone Star split between Texas A&M and Texas.
AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementFirst played in 1894, the series defined conference standing until a long hiatus halted annual meetings before a 2024 renewal. The recruiting overlap, state identity and football philosophy keep stakes high in this one. Tech emphasizes tradition with a '12th Man' identity and defensive tone, while Texas leverages national reach and elite quarterback development with Arch Manning being the next up.
There are many storylines to this year's battle. Texas is likely out of the College Football Playoff, but can derail Texas A&M's perfect season and send them off into the unknown after Saturday. While Mike Elko's Aggies are trying to stay as the SEC's top team, the Longhorns have different plans.
Both alumni bases fuel year-round arguments that reach far beyond campus borders. When the rivalry is on, stadiums split identities but share intensity all the way through. Bragging rights, like state pride, are permanent. The rivalry paused, but never cooled.
No. 3 Texas A&M heads to Austin for a top-tier matchup with Texas on Friday (7:30 p.m. ET, ABC).
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