Football History

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Rivalry games are the best, as teams get up to play their most hated opponents. The game to circle in the Big Ten today and in 1969 is the annual Buckeyes and Wolverines contest.

The 1969 Michigan vs. Ohio State football game was more than just a rivalry matchup. It was a monumental showdown with national championship implications, etched in history as "The Upset of the Century."

Defiance in the Face of Expectations:

The undefeated and heavily favored Ohio State Buckeyes, led by legendary coach Woody Hayes, were widely considered the superior team. They had won 22 straight games and were ranked #1 in the nation. Facing them were the #12 Michigan Wolverines under first-year head coach Bo Schembechler, determined to prove themselves against the mighty Buckeyes.

A Defensive Masterclass:

The game unfolded as a defensive battle. Michigan's defense, led by Jim Mandich and Tom Darden, shut down the Buckeyes' high-powered offense, forcing six interceptions and limiting Rex Kern to a dismal performance. Ohio State's vaunted running game, anchored by Jim Otis, was also neutralized by the Wolverines' tenacious defense.

Michigan's Rise to Glory:

On offense, Michigan relied on a balanced attack. Quarterback Don Moorhead connected with Billy Taylor for a 54-yard touchdown pass, while the running back duo of Garvie Craw and Barry Pierson punched in two crucial touchdowns.

A Nation Stunned:

As the final seconds ticked away, Michigan secured a shocking 24-12 victory, silencing the Ohio State crowd and sending shockwaves through the college football world. This unexpected triumph marked the beginning of the iconic "Bo Schembechler vs. Woody Hayes" rivalry and cemented Michigan's place in the national championship picture.

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The Texas Tech Red Raiders football program has a rich history filled with thrilling moments and iconic victories. Here's a glimpse into some of their most significant games:

1. 1954 Sun Bowl: Tech's first bowl victory, defeating the Pacific Tigers 25-14. This win marked a turning point for the program, showcasing its potential on a national stage.

2. 1976 Cotton Bowl Classic: A dramatic 34-24 victory over Penn State secured a share of the Southwest Conference championship for Tech. This victory cemented their place as a major force in the college football landscape.

3. 2005 Insight Bowl: The largest come-from-behind bowl victory in NCAA history. Tech stormed back from a 31-point deficit to defeat the Minnesota Golden Gophers 45-42 in overtime. This game solidified the "Air Raid" offensive system and propelled Tech into the national spotlight.

4. 2008 Texas vs. Texas Tech: A nail-biting 39-33 upset victory over rival Texas. Down by 24 points at halftime, Tech staged a remarkable comeback fueled by Michael Crabtree's game-winning touchdown catch. This iconic win solidified Tech's place in Red Raider lore.

5. 2010 Fiesta Bowl: A thrilling 41-38 victory over Boise State. Tech's high-powered offense outlasted Boise State's "Smurf Turf" magic, securing their first Big 12 championship and earning their highest ranking in program history.

Bonus - 2002 Michael Crabtree's "Crabtree Catch": While not a full game, this iconic catch against Texas A&M cemented Crabtree's legacy as a Red Raider legend and became a defining moment for the program's identity.

These are just a few of the many memorable games that have contributed to the rich history of Texas Tech football. Each game showcases the program's resilience, offensive prowess, and unwavering spirit, leaving a lasting legacy for future generations of Red Raiders.

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The 1969 Arkansas-Texas football game stands as a monumental clash of titans in college football history. Played on December 6th, 1969, at Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville, Arkansas, this game held the weight of national championship implications.

Two Powerhouses Collide:

Entering the game, #1 Texas faced off against #2 Arkansas, both teams boasting undefeated records and high-powered offenses. Texas, led by the iconic Darrell Royal, was known for its punishing ground game featuring star running back Jim Saxton. Arkansas, under coach Frank Broyles, relied on the prolific passing attack orchestrated by quarterback Bill Burkett and the dynamic duo of receivers Lance Alworth and Bill Burnett.

A Defensive Struggle:

The game itself was a defensive battle, with both teams showcasing their strength on that side of the ball. Arkansas initially took control, building a 14-0 lead by halftime. However, the Longhorns refused to surrender.

The Second-Half Comeback:

The second half witnessed a dramatic shift in momentum. Texas' defense clamped down, shutting out Arkansas' offense. Meanwhile, the Longhorns' running game, spearheaded by Saxton and Tommy Ford, started to wear down the Arkansas defense.

A Thrilling Conclusion:

In the closing minutes, Texas mounted a decisive drive. Quarterback James Cotten connected with Billy Quinn for a 74-yard touchdown pass, and with the successful extra point, Texas completed a remarkable comeback, winning the game 15-14.

A National Title Decided:

The victory not only secured the Southwest Conference championship for Texas but also propelled them to the top of the national polls. With no further games remaining, Texas was declared national champions by President Nixon, cementing their place in college football history.

The 1999 Texas vs. Texas A&M football game was more than just a rivalry game. Played just 12 days after the tragic collapse of the Aggie Bonfire, it became a symbol of unity and resilience in the face of adversity.


Pre-Game Tragedy:


On November 18, 1999, the Texas A&M student bonfire tradition collapsed, taking the lives of 12 students and injuring 27 others. The tragedy cast a dark shadow over the Aggie community and the upcoming game against Texas.


A Decision to Play:


Despite the tragedy, the decision was made to play the game. The Aggies, with the support of the Texas Longhorns and fans from both sides, decided to take the field as a way to honor the victims and show strength in the face of adversity.


An Emotional Game:


The atmosphere at Kyle Field was electric. The Aggie faithful, clad in maroon and white, sang the school's fight song with renewed fervor. The Texas Longhorns, dressed in black jerseys with a bonfire memorial patch, showed respect and solidarity.


A Thrilling Victory:


The game itself was a nail-biter. The Aggies, fueled by emotion and the spirit of their fallen comrades, played with remarkable courage and determination. Quarterback Randy McCown led the team to a 20-16 victory, sending the home crowd into a joyous frenzy.


A Symbol of Unity:


The 1999 Texas vs. Texas A&M game transcended the sport. It became a testament to the power of community and the ability to overcome tragedy. The image of the Aggies celebrating their victory while still grieving their loss, became a lasting symbol of hope and resilience.
Legacy and Impact:


The 1999 game continues to hold a special place in the hearts of Aggies and Longhorns alike. It serves as a reminder of the importance of community and the strength that can be found in the face of adversity. The game also cemented the Aggie Bonfire as a symbol of unity and sacrifice, ensuring that the memory of the victims will never be forgotten.

The Wyoming Cowboys football program, established in 1891, boasts a long and proud history. Though national championships remain elusive, the Cowboys have carved their niche in college football through unwavering grit, resilience, and a commitment to developing talent.
Early Days and Regional Success (1891-1940s):
The program's early years were marked by independent play and competition against regional rivals.
The Cowboys experienced early success, including undefeated seasons in 1891 and 1903.
Legendary coach John Corbett led the Cowboys to Rocky Mountain Conference championships in 1939 and 1940, solidifying the program's regional presence.
Turbulent Times and Conference Shifts (1950s-1970s):
The mid-20th century saw periods of inconsistent play and coaching changes.
The Cowboys joined the Skyline Conference in 1959, seeking more competitive challenges.
Despite sporadic success, including a Skyline Conference championship in 1976, the program faced challenges in attracting top talent and achieving sustained success.
Resurgence and Bowl Appearances (1980s-2000s):
The 1980s marked a resurgence under head coach Dennis Erickson, leading the Cowboys to their first-ever bowl appearance in the 1988 Holiday Bowl.
The Cowboys continued their success in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC), winning conference championships in 1987 and 1993.
The program solidified its reputation as a bowl contender, participating in six bowl games between 1988 and 2004.
Modern Era and Mountain West Competition (2010s-Present):
Since joining the Mountain West Conference in 2012, the Cowboys have faced stiffer competition.
The program has experienced periods of both success and struggle, including a Mountain West Conference championship in 2019.
The Cowboys remain a competitive force in the conference, consistently developing NFL talent and fostering a winning culture.
For the latest news on the program and more, the GOWyo.com website is the place.

The Arizona State Sun Devils and the Arizona Wildcats football rivalry, known as the "Duel in the Desert," is one of the oldest and most intense in college football. Dating back to 1899, the rivalry transcends the gridiron, reflecting the political and cultural differences between the two universities and the state of Arizona.
Early Years and Political Tensions (1899-1950s):
The rivalry began early, with the first game played just two years after Arizona State's founding. The games were often fiercely competitive, mirroring the growing political tensions between the University of Arizona, established in 1885, and the newly formed Arizona State College.
The Territorial Cup and Shifting Landscapes (1950s-2000s):
The "Territorial Cup" was introduced in 1988, adding another layer of significance to the rivalry. The trophy, awarded to the winner of the annual game, symbolized the ongoing battle for bragging rights within the state. The late 1950s saw a particularly heated period, fueled by Arizona State's rise to university status, a move opposed by the University of Arizona.
Modern Era and Renewed Intensity (2000s-Present):
The rivalry has continued to be a highlight of the college football season in recent years. Both teams have experienced periods of success, contributing to dramatic and unpredictable matchups. The rise of social media has added a new dimension to the rivalry, allowing fans to engage in passionate online discussions and banter.
Beyond the Game: A Shared Legacy and Community Spirit:
Despite the intense competition, the rivalry is also rooted in mutual respect and a shared history. Both universities contribute to the vibrant educational and cultural landscape of Arizona, and the "Duel in the Desert" serves as a unifying event for the state's football fans.

In what is considered one of the biggest upsets in college football history, the unranked Texas Tech Red Raiders shocked the top-ranked Texas Longhorns in a dramatic 39-33 comeback victory on November 1, 2008.


Dominant Defense Turns the Tide:


Texas appeared to be cruising to victory, leading 33-27 with just over two minutes remaining in the game. However, Texas Tech's defense stepped up, forcing a critical fumble deep in Texas territory. With momentum shifting, Texas Tech capitalized on the turnover.


Crabtree's Catch Seals the Win:


Taking over at the Texas 28-yard line, quarterback Graham Harrell found his star wide receiver Michael Crabtree for a game-winning 28-yard touchdown pass with just six seconds left on the clock. The play, instantly dubbed "Crabtree's Catch," became iconic and etched Crabtree's name in college football lore.


A David vs. Goliath Victory:


The win marked a monumental upset for Texas Tech, who were significant underdogs entering the game. It served as a testament to the effectiveness of the "Air Raid" offense, led by Harrell and Crabtree, and the resilience of the Red Raiders.


National Implications:


The 2008 Texas Tech-Texas game had significant national implications. The Longhorns' loss knocked them from the top spot in the rankings and opened the door for several other teams to contend for the national championship.


A Legacy of Upsets:


This game cemented its place in college football history as one of the most memorable upsets ever witnessed. It is a reminder that anything is possible in the unpredictable world of college football.

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One of the top games ever in college football was the masterpiece played at Kyle Field, College Station, where the final score was: Texas A&M 20, Texas 16.

Played just 11 days after the tragic collapse of the Bonfire, this game served as a unifying moment for the Aggie community.
Texas A&M's victory was a powerful symbol of resilience and a tribute to the victims of the tragedy.
The game remains one of the most emotional and memorable moments in the history of the Texas A&M vs. Texas rivalry.
Key moments:

The Aggie defense dominated the game, forcing three turnovers and holding Texas to just 16 points.
Bran Jennings' six sacks were a key factor in Texas A&M's defensive dominance.
Quarterback Randy McCown led the Aggie offense efficiently, connecting with Corey Pullig for a 44-yard touchdown pass.
The game was sealed with a late interception by Aggie defensive back Jason Webster.

The rivalry between Appalachian State and Wake Forest football is a relatively young one, but it has quickly grown to be one of the most heated in the state of North Carolina. Here's a brief history of the series:

Early Years (1941-1997):

The two teams first met in 1941, with Wake Forest winning 35-0.
The series was sporadic in the early years, with only five games played between 1941 and 1997.
Wake Forest dominated the early encounters, winning all five games by an average margin of 22 points.
Appalachian State's Rise and Rivalry Grows (1998-2013):

The rivalry began to heat up in the late 1990s as Appalachian State, then an FCS powerhouse, challenged Wake Forest to closer games.
In 1998, Appalachian State pulled off a stunning 24-21 upset victory, marking their first win over the Demon Deacons.
The series became more frequent after Appalachian State's victory, with the two teams playing seven times between 1998 and 2013.
The Mountaineers continued to compete well, winning three of those games and keeping the rivalry competitive.
FBS Era and Increased Competition (2014-Present):

Since Appalachian State's transition to the FBS in 2014, the rivalry has taken on a new level of significance.
Both teams have been competing for Sun Belt Conference championships, adding another layer of intensity to the matchup.
The series has been tightly contested during this era, with Wake Forest holding a slight 3-2 edge.
The most recent encounter in 2022 saw Wake Forest win a close 34-31 battle, highlighting the continued competitiveness of the rivalry.

Beyond the gridiron, the Texas Longhorns football program boasts a vibrant tapestry of traditions that enrich the game experience and bind generations of fans together. These traditions, passed down through the years, contribute to the unique atmosphere and passionate spirit that define a Longhorn football game.
Standout Traditions:

Bevo: The beloved mascot, a live Longhorn steer, embodies the strength and spirit of the Longhorns. Bevo makes grand entrances at every home game, captivating fans with his majestic presence.

The Eyes of Texas: This iconic song, sung after each touchdown and at the end of the game, serves as a powerful anthem of unity and pride for Longhorn fans.

Hook 'em, Horns: This ubiquitous phrase, accompanied by the iconic hand gesture, is a universal expression of Longhorn spirit, uniting fans in a shared passion for the team.

Smokey the Cannon: This historic Civil War cannon, fired after each Texas score and at the end of winning games, booms with resounding pride, adding a thrilling element to the gameday atmosphere.

Texas Fight: This spirited chant, led by the Longhorn Band, engages fans in a synchronized display of unity and excitement, reminding the players of their unwavering support.

Burnt Orange and White: These colors, representing the Texas flag and the university's official colors, are proudly displayed by fans, players, and coaches, symbolizing loyalty and belonging to the Longhorn family.

The University of Texas Tower: This iconic landmark, illuminated in burnt orange after every victory, serves as a beacon of Longhorn pride, visible throughout Austin and symbolizing the program's enduring legacy.