The rivalry between Texas A&M and Texas, known as the Lone Star Showdown, is reigniting.

Jeff Hauser

Texas A&M vs. Texas — Lone Star split heats back up image

TL;DR

  • The Texas A&M vs. Texas rivalry, revived in 2024, began in 1894 and was interrupted for years.
  • Texas A&M emphasizes heritage and defense with its '12th Man' ethos, while Texas cultivates top quarterbacks like Arch Manning.
  • No. 3 Texas A&M faces Texas in Austin, with Texas aiming to disrupt A&M's undefeated season and SEC lead.
  • The intense rivalry fuels alumni debates and passionate stadium divisions, with bragging rights enduring indefinitely.

No rivalry reflects Texas pride better than the Lone Star split between Texas A&M and Texas. 

Initiated in 1894, the rivalry established conference rankings until a lengthy interruption ceased yearly contests prior to a 2024 revival. The shared recruiting pool, regional pride, and distinct football approaches maintain the intensity of this matchup. Tech prioritizes heritage, featuring a '12th Man't ethos and a defensive focus, whereas Texas capitalizes on its broad appeal and top-tier quarterback cultivation, with Arch Manning poised to be the next star. 

This year's contest presents numerous narratives. Texas, though probably out of the College Football Playoff, has the potential to disrupt Texas A&M's undefeated season and send them into uncertainty following Saturday. As Mike Elko's Aggies aim to maintain their status as the SEC's leading team, the Longhorns have alternative objectives. 

The alumni communities on both sides drive ongoing debates that extend well past university grounds. During intense competition, stadiums become divided in allegiance but united in passion until the very end. The right to boast, much like regional pride, endures indefinitely. The competition ceased for a time, but the fervor never diminished.

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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Editorial Team