In Texas, college football rivalries are heated, but there comes a time when tragedies occur that are much bigger than the game of football and unite the state. On the weekend of July 4, devastating flash floods occurred that claimed the lives of 138 people in central Texas.
Today, universities across Texas posted on social media that they will wear a Texas Strong decal on the back of their helmets to honor those whose lives were affected by the tragedy.
Standing together and wearing our hearts on our helmets.
— Texas Tech Football (@TexasTechFB) August 28, 2025
A green ribbon over the state of Texas in memory of the victims and all those impacted by this summer’s devastating floods. #WreckEm x #TexasStrong pic.twitter.com/wtD7fxuqg1
Texas A&M athletics released a statement regarding the decal's significance: "The decal represents the compassion, strength, and resilience of Texans who came together to offer help in the face of disaster and honor those lives cut tragically short." Over 12,300 volunteers came to Central Texas' aid to help with search efforts.
Baylor Bears head coach Dave Arenda and Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire both gave emotional statements during Big 12 media days this past July, discussing the tragic event.
Teams will be wearing the decals all season to show their support. Since the flooding, over $60 million has been raised for relief efforts; donations primarily come from the Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country’s Kerr County Flood Relief Fund, with additional support from local businesses, nonprofits, and donation campaigns.
MORE COLLEGE FOOTBALL NEWS:
- Kelce Brothers awkward college photo resurfaces after Taylor Swift engagement
- Bill Belichick, girlfriend Jordon Hudson secure 'Gold Digger' trademark
- Arch Manning sends clear message to Ohio State: "We got the red dot on everyone"
- Bill Belichick's prized QB recruit dealt major blow with season-ending injury
- Deion Sanders still shocked by 'high times' in Boulder