It's time to "Hook'em Horns" as we celebrate the burnt orange tradition of the Texas Longhorns football program. The Longhorns are the gridiron team representing the University of Texas at Austin. The program boasts over 900 wins, as well as an all-time win–loss percentage just over 70%. The Longhorns rank 3rd and 7th on the all-time wins and win–loss records lists, respectively. Additionally, the iconic program claims 4 national championships, 32 conference championships, 100 First Team All-Americans (61 consensus), and 2 Heisman Trophy winners. From Earl Campbell and Ricky Williams to Tommy Nobis, Vince Young, and Brian Orakpo these fellas from Austin have had their share of collegiate and professional football legends. Learn more about the Longhorns from this collection of posts.
A History of the Texas Longhorns Football Program
College Football Programs | Texas Longhorns, A History of the Texas Longhorns Football Program
The 1922 Rose Bowl
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Dive into the Depths of College Football
Take a deep dive into the history and origins of the top gridiron teams and programs at the collegiate level. We celebrate the game of American football right from its roots. The concept started with youngsters of different schools competing against each other and the game at that level still thrives.
College football – a tapestry woven from roaring stadiums, electrifying plays, and passionate rivalries. But beyond the spectacle, lies the beating heart of the sport: the college football programs themselves. Each one, a unique ecosystem of tradition, strategy, and vibrant personalities, shaping the future of the game and inspiring generations of fans. In this series, we'll delve deep into these programs, exploring their storied histories, iconic figures, and the intricate dance of coaching philosophies and player development that shapes their triumphs and challenges. So, grab your jersey, settle in, and prepare to be swept away by the captivating world of college football programs, where legends are forged, dynasties built, and every Saturday becomes a battleground for gridiron glory!
From Humble Beginnings to National Prominence
The Texas Longhorns football team represents the University of Texas at Austin located in Austin, Texas. The Longhorns are a member of the NCAA FBS Big 12 Conference and play their home games at Darrell K. Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin. The Longhorns are currently coached by Steve Sarkisian. Beginning in 1893, the Texas Longhorns football program is one of the most highly regarded and historic programs of all time. From 1937 to 1946 the team was led by Hall of Fame coach Dana X. Bible — americanfootball.fandom.com
The Texas Longhorns football program boasts a rich history dating back to 1893, making it one of the oldest and most successful programs in college football. Here's a glimpse into its journey:
-Early Days and Establishing a Winning Tradition (1893-1925):
The program began modestly, fielding its first permanent team in 1893.
Early success came quickly, with the Longhorns recording undefeated seasons in 1900, 1914, 1918, and 1920.
Notable coaches of this era include John Heisman (1902-1903) and Dana X. Bible (1916-1932).
-Dominant Decades and the Rise of Legends (1926-1976):
The program experienced sustained success under coaches such as Clyde Littlefield (1934-1956) and Darrell Royal (1957-1976).
This era saw the emergence of legendary players like Davey O'Brien (Heisman Trophy winner in 1938), Bobby Layne (Heisman Trophy winner in 1950), and Tommy Nobis (Heisman Trophy runner-up in 1965).
The Longhorns won four national championships during this period: 1963, 1969, 1970, and 1975.
-Ups and Downs and the Quest for Restoration (1977-2009):
After Royal's departure, the program experienced a period of inconsistency, with only occasional flashes of brilliance.
However, the hiring of Fred Akers in 1977 and David McWilliams in 1987 brought some stability and success.
Notable players from this era include Earl Campbell (Heisman Trophy winner in 1977) and Ricky Williams (Heisman Trophy winner in 1998).
Despite individual triumphs, the Longhorns struggled to replicate the dominance of the Royal era.
-The Mack Brown Era and Returning to Glory (2010-2014):
Mack Brown's arrival in 2005 marked a turning point for the program.
He instilled discipline, recruited top talent, and implemented a winning culture.
The Longhorns won the 2005 national championship, their first in 30 years, with Vince Young leading the charge.
The program remained competitive throughout Brown's tenure, consistently ranking among the nation's best.
-Recent Years and the Search for New Heights (2015-Present):
Charlie Strong took over as head coach in 2015, but his tenure was marred by disappointing results.
Tom Herman replaced Strong in 2017, bringing renewed hope and optimism.
While the program has shown improvement under Herman, it has not yet reached the heights of the Mack Brown era.
The Longhorns continue their quest for national championship glory, seeking to add to their rich legacy in college football.
Head coach Steve Sarkisian has the program going in the right direction as it heads to the four-team playoff of the FCS in 2023 and to the SEC in 2024.
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Orville Mulligan: Sports Writer
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Gridiron Legacy: Pro Football's Missing Origin Story
Author Gregg Ficery tells the story of the beginnings of Pro Football through the pro football career of his Great Grandfather, Bob Shiring
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Bears versus Cardinals: The NFL's Oldest Rivalry
Author Joe Ziemba the master historian of football in Chicago has released another beauty. It is titled Bears versus Cardinals: The NFL's Oldest Rivalry.
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