No. 1 Texas and No. 18 Oklahoma will square off at 2:30 PM on Saturday in the 120th rendition of the Red River Rivalry. While Texas holds an all-time advantage of 63-51-5 against the Sooners, Oklahoma has dominated the Longhorns in the last quarter century. In the last 25 meetings, Texas has won just eight times. Victories have leaned heavily in favor of the crimson and cream and the Longhorns need to turn the page into a new era that sees them winning the Red River Rivaly more times than not. They have the opportunity to do just that on Saturday at the Cotton Bowl in a game in which they are favored by two touchdowns.
Here are five keys to bringing the Golden Hat back to Austin after Saturday’s Red River Rivalry game against Oklahoma:
Quinn Ewers’ Efficiency (Post-Injury Return)
Coming off an injury, Ewers needs to be sharp in his decision-making and protect the ball. Efficient, quick reads will be vital, especially against an Oklahoma defense that will likely pressure him. Getting the ball to playmakers like Isaiah Bond and the receiving corps will open up the offense.
Establish the Running Game
A strong ground game will offset the pressure that OU wants to put on Ewers and control the tempo of the game. Jaydon Blue, Tre Wisner and the Texas running backs must find success behind their offensive line to keep Oklahoma’s defense off balance.
Control the Line of Scrimmage
Both offensively and defensively, Texas must win in the trenches. On offense, they need to open running lanes and give Ewers time in the pocket. Defensively, the key will be applying pressure on Oklahoma’s QB, Michael Hawkins, while containing him in the pocket.
Contain Michael Hawkins Jr.
Hawkins is a dynamic runner who can break the game open with his legs. Texas’ defense must stay disciplined and maintain gap integrity, staying in rushing lanes to prevent big plays. Keeping him in check and limiting his ability to escape will be critical.
Win the Turnover Battle
Limiting their own turnovers while forcing Oklahoma into mistakes will be pivotal for Texas. Creating turnovers, particularly in Oklahoma’s territory, will give the Longhorns a crucial advantage in such a high-stakes rivalry.
With a tough stretch of games ahead, starting with Oklahoma, executing on these keys will give Texas momentum and a strong foundation for the upcoming challenges in the SEC.
