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.

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.

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.

Football enthusiasts rejoice! The Packaged Tourist Podcast welcomes renowned author Darin Hayes, chronicler of forgotten gridiron heroes, for a deep dive into his latest book, "The World's Greatest Pro Gridiron Team." Join host Matthew DiBiase as they dissect the remarkable story of the 1903 Franklin All-Stars, a team shrouded in myth and deemed by Hayes as arguably the best ever.

Prepare to be transported back to a time when professional football was in its infancy. Hayes, armed with meticulous research and captivating storytelling, delves into the All-Stars' meteoric rise. Get ready to:

Meet the players: Hayes paints vivid portraits of legends like Tackle Blondy Wallace, the elusive halfback Teck Matthews, and the enigmatic quarterback Jack Hayden, bringing their forgotten achievements to life.
Witness their dominance: Uncover the All-Stars' revolutionary tactics and explosive plays that left opponents aghast and redefined the game.
Relive their controversial season: Dive into the heated debates surrounding the All-Stars' legitimacy and tumultuous journey through a fractured football landscape.
Hayes and DiBiase promise a thought-provoking discussion that challenges conventional wisdom and rewrites forgotten chapters of football history. Whether you're a die-hard fan or simply fascinated by the evolution of the sport, this episode is guaranteed to ignite your passion.

The 1959 Syracuse Orange football team wasn't just a good team; they were a juggernaut. They stormed through the season undefeated, capturing the national championship and etching their names in college football history as one of the greatest teams ever assembled. Here's a closer look at what made them so special:

Dominant Offense:

Led by the legendary Ben Schwartzwalder, the "perfect offense" of the '59 Orange averaged a staggering 39 points per game, an unheard-of number in that era.

Their multifaceted attack boasted a balanced blend of run and pass, featuring a lethal combination of the Heisman Trophy-winning running back Ernie Davis, quarterback Gerhard Schwedes, and a talented receiving corps.

Their innovative "T-formation" offense, often with unbalanced sets and misdirection, kept defenses guessing and led to explosive playmaking.
Unflappable Defense:

While the offense grabbed headlines, the defense was anything but a pushover. They held eight of their ten opponents under 10 points, showcasing suffocating discipline and tackling prowess.

Led by linebackers Floyd Little and Ron Stone, the unit shut down opposing offenses and created opportunities for the Orange offense to shine.

The 2001 Big 12 Championship Game saw the #7 Colorado Buffaloes pull off a stunning upset against the #3 Texas Longhorns, claiming their first Big 12 title in a dramatic 39-37 victory.

-An Offensive Showstopper:

The game was a high-scoring affair, with both teams showcasing their offensive firepower. Colorado's Bobby Pesavento and Texas' Chris Simms combined for over 600 passing yards and five touchdowns. The offensive fireworks kept fans on the edge of their seats throughout the contest.

-Late-Game Heroics:

With the score tied at 37 and just over a minute remaining, Colorado's defense forced a crucial turnover. Capitalizing on the opportunity, Pesavento led the Buffaloes on a game-winning drive, culminating in a 4-yard touchdown run to seal the victory with 28 seconds left.

-An Unforgettable Upset:

The 2001 Big 12 Championship Game is remembered as a classic in college football history. Colorado's unlikely victory against the heavily favored Longhorns was a testament to their resilience and offensive prowess. The game cemented the legacy of Colorado head coach Gary Barnett and quarterback Bobby Pesavento.

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The Football Archaeology website has a powerful look at this 1922 game that featured the University of Floridaand an American Legion Post team from Tampa.

Claude Humphrey's football career stands as a testament to perseverance, excellence, and sheer dominance on the gridiron. Born on June 29, 1944, in Memphis, Tennessee, Humphrey emerged as one of the most feared defensive ends of his era, leaving an indelible mark on the National Football League (NFL).

Humphrey's journey to football greatness began at Tennessee State University, where his athletic prowess quickly caught the attention of scouts and coaches. Excelling as a defensive end, he demonstrated a rare blend of speed, agility, and power that set him apart from his peers. His stellar performances earned him All-American honors and laid the foundation for a promising professional career.

In the 1968 NFL Draft, Humphrey was selected by the Atlanta Falcons as the third overall pick, marking the beginning of his impactful tenure in the league. From the outset, he made an immediate impact, showcasing his ability to disrupt opposing offenses with his relentless pass rush and formidable run-stopping capabilities. His technique and athleticism made him a nightmare for offensive linemen, earning him respect across the league.

Throughout his NFL career, Humphrey played a pivotal role in the Falcons' defense, anchoring the line and setting a high standard for defensive excellence. His consistency and durability were remarkable, as he continued to perform at a high level year after year. His leadership qualities also shone through, inspiring teammates and earning the admiration of fans and coaches alike.

Humphrey's standout performances did not go unnoticed, as he received numerous accolades and honors during his career. He was selected to the Pro Bowl six times (1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1977) and earned first-team All-Pro honors five times (1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1977). His impact on the Falcons' defense was instrumental in establishing them as a competitive force in the league.

In 1979, Humphrey briefly retired from the NFL but returned to the gridiron a year later, joining the Philadelphia Eagles. Despite nearing the end of his career, he continued to demonstrate his effectiveness as a pass rusher and leader on the field. His veteran presence and experience proved invaluable to the Eagles' defense, contributing to their success during his tenure with the team.

Claude Humphrey's football career culminated in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the sport. In 2014, he was rightfully enshrined in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest defensive ends in NFL history. His induction was a fitting tribute to his remarkable career and served as a testament to his enduring impact on the game.

Beyond his on-field achievements, Humphrey's dedication and passion for football continue to inspire generations of players and fans. His journey from a standout college athlete to a Hall of Fame professional exemplifies the rewards of hard work, perseverance, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Claude Humphrey remains a revered figure in football history, forever etched in the annals of the sport as a true gridiron legend.

On December 5, 2009, the #5 Texas Longhorns faced off against the #22 Nebraska Cornhuskers in a nail-biting Big 12 Championship showdown.

Nebraska held the lead throughout the game, but Texas fought back with a late touchdown drive. With just seconds remaining on the clock, Texas kicker Hunter Lawrence nailed a 46-yard field goal, securing a dramatic 13-12 victory and stealing the Big 12 Championship from Nebraska.

This thrilling contest, decided by a last-second field goal, cemented itself as a memorable chapter in both teams' histories and solidified the 2009 Texas Longhorns as Big 12 champions.