A Last-Second Upset for the Red Raiders
The 2008 Texas Tech vs. Texas football game was a thrilling matchup that went down to the wire. It was a game that had everything: high-powered offenses, dramatic comebacks, and a last-second finish that left fans breathless.
The Contenders:
The #7 ranked Texas Longhorns entered the game with a 9-1 record and a legitimate shot at the national championship.
The unranked Texas Tech Red Raiders, led by quarterback Graham Harrell and wide receiver Michael Crabtree, were known for their fast-paced "Air Raid" offense.
An Offensive Explosion:
The game lived up to its billing as a shootout. Both teams traded touchdowns throughout the first half, with Texas Tech holding a 31-24 lead at halftime.
The second half was just as exciting, with both teams continuing to score points. With less than two minutes remaining, Texas took the lead 39-33.
The Crabtree Catch:
With just seconds remaining on the clock, Texas Tech faced a 4th down and 15 from their own 25-yard line.
Harrell launched a deep pass down the sideline toward Crabtree, who was tightly covered by Texas cornerback Aaron Williams.
In a play that would become known as "The Crabtree Catch," Crabtree leaped high in the air and snagged the ball with one hand, just inches away from Williams.
A Stunning Upset:
With the catch, Crabtree put the Red Raiders in field goal range.
Texas Tech kicker Donnie Carona then drilled a 40-yard field goal as time expired, giving the Red Raiders a 40-39 victory.
A Turning Point in the Big 12:
The 2008 Texas Tech vs. Texas game is considered one of the greatest upsets in college football history.
It helped propel Texas Tech to an 11-1 record and a share of the Big 12 Championship.
The game also marked a turning point in the Big 12 conference, ushering in an era of high-powered offenses and exciting games.
Legacy and Impact:
The 2008 Texas Tech vs. Texas game is still remembered today as one of the most thrilling games in college football history.
The Crabtree Catch has become an iconic moment in Texas Tech football lore.
The game continues to be a source of debate and controversy, with many arguing that Williams should have been called for pass interference on the final play.
Additional Notes:
The game was televised on ABC and drew an estimated audience of 10 million viewers.
Harrell finished the game with 547 passing yards and five touchdowns.
Crabtree caught 11 passes for 217 yards and two touchdowns.
The 2008 Texas Tech vs. Texas game is featured in the book "The Crabtree Game: Inside the Greatest Upset in College Football History."
More on this great game below.
The Contenders:
The #7 ranked Texas Longhorns entered the game with a 9-1 record and a legitimate shot at the national championship.
The unranked Texas Tech Red Raiders, led by quarterback Graham Harrell and wide receiver Michael Crabtree, were known for their fast-paced "Air Raid" offense.
An Offensive Explosion:
The game lived up to its billing as a shootout. Both teams traded touchdowns throughout the first half, with Texas Tech holding a 31-24 lead at halftime.
The second half was just as exciting, with both teams continuing to score points. With less than two minutes remaining, Texas took the lead 39-33.
The Crabtree Catch:
With just seconds remaining on the clock, Texas Tech faced a 4th down and 15 from their own 25-yard line.
Harrell launched a deep pass down the sideline toward Crabtree, who was tightly covered by Texas cornerback Aaron Williams.
In a play that would become known as "The Crabtree Catch," Crabtree leaped high in the air and snagged the ball with one hand, just inches away from Williams.
A Stunning Upset:
With the catch, Crabtree put the Red Raiders in field goal range.
Texas Tech kicker Donnie Carona then drilled a 40-yard field goal as time expired, giving the Red Raiders a 40-39 victory.
A Turning Point in the Big 12:
The 2008 Texas Tech vs. Texas game is considered one of the greatest upsets in college football history.
It helped propel Texas Tech to an 11-1 record and a share of the Big 12 Championship.
The game also marked a turning point in the Big 12 conference, ushering in an era of high-powered offenses and exciting games.
Legacy and Impact:
The 2008 Texas Tech vs. Texas game is still remembered today as one of the most thrilling games in college football history.
The Crabtree Catch has become an iconic moment in Texas Tech football lore.
The game continues to be a source of debate and controversy, with many arguing that Williams should have been called for pass interference on the final play.
Additional Notes:
The game was televised on ABC and drew an estimated audience of 10 million viewers.
Harrell finished the game with 547 passing yards and five touchdowns.
Crabtree caught 11 passes for 217 yards and two touchdowns.
The 2008 Texas Tech vs. Texas game is featured in the book "The Crabtree Game: Inside the Greatest Upset in College Football History."
More on this great game below.
Texas Football Through the Years
Take a trip through Horns history with the best photos of Texas football greats from SI's photographers.
— www.si.com
— www.si.com
The Texas Longhorns football program is a veritable pantheon of legendary players, each leaving an indelible mark on the sport. Here are a few of the most iconic figures:
-Earl Campbell (1974-77): The "Golden Boy" electrified fans with his electrifying running style and record-breaking performances. He became the program's first Heisman Trophy winner in 1977 and remains one of the most beloved Longhorns of all time.
-Ricky Williams (1995-98): Nicknamed "Texas Tornado," Williams' smooth moves and record-setting rushing yards cemented his place among the greats. He won the Heisman Trophy in 1998 and left a legacy of dominance in the Longhorns' backfield.
-Tommy Nobis (1963-65): A ferocious linebacker, Nobis was known for his intensity and leadership. He was awarded the Lombardi Trophy in 1965 and became a cornerstone of the Longhorns' defense.
-Bobby Layne (1946-49): A dual-threat quarterback, Layne's talent on the field was matched by his larger-than-life personality. He won the Heisman Trophy in 1950 and became a successful professional player, further solidifying his legendary status.
-Vince Young (2003-05): Young's leadership and clutch performances in big games, particularly the 2006 Rose Bowl, cemented his place in Longhorns lore. He was a key piece of the Longhorns' national championship run in 2005 and remains a fan favorite.
These are just a few of the many legendary players who have donned burnt orange and white. Their talent, dedication, and passion have helped shape the Longhorns' legacy and continue to inspire future generations of players to strive for greatness.
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A Thriller for the Ages
On November 1, 2008, the Longhorns were headed to a national championship and Colt McCoy was a Heisman front-runner. One night in Lubbock, and one catch, brought it all crashing down. — www.theringer.com
The 2008 Texas Tech vs. Texas football game, played on November 1, 2008, at Jones AT&T Stadium, will forever be etched in the memories of fans on both sides. This Big 12 Conference clash witnessed a dramatic comeback victory by Texas Tech over the heavily favored Longhorns in a game filled with thrilling moments and unexpected twists.
A Tale of Two Halves:
The game began with Texas dominating the first half, building a comfortable 24-10 lead. Quarterback Colt McCoy orchestrated the Longhorns' offense, throwing two touchdown passes and leading them to a seemingly insurmountable advantage. Texas' defense also played a strong role, stifling the Red Raiders' offense and holding them to just one touchdown.
However, the second half unfolded in a completely different direction. Texas Tech, led by head coach Mike Leach and quarterback Graham Harrell, staged a remarkable comeback. Harrell, known for his "Air Raid" offense, unleashed a torrent of passes, targeting his favorite receiver, Michael Crabtree. Crabtree caught six passes for 170 yards and two touchdowns, spearheading the Red Raiders' offensive revival.
The Red Raiders' defense also stepped up, forcing turnovers and limiting Texas' scoring opportunities. With each touchdown, the momentum shifted, and the crowd at Jones AT&T Stadium erupted in a frenzy of excitement.
A Last-Minute Miracle:
With just 1:29 remaining on the clock, Texas clung to a 33-32 lead. After a crucial defensive stop by Texas Tech, the Red Raiders took over possession at their own 37-yard line. Needing a touchdown to secure the victory, Graham Harrell orchestrated a flawless final drive. He completed passes to three different receivers, including a 20-yard strike to Crabtree on a 4th and 11, giving the Red Raiders a fresh set of downs.
With seconds remaining on the clock, Harrell found Crabtree on a slant route in the end zone for a game-winning touchdown. The stadium erupted in pandemonium as the Red Raiders completed their improbable comeback, winning the game 39-33.
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Dave Campbell's Texas Football on TCU History
A Momentous Clash of Titans
During the Arkansas vs. Texas game on Dec. 6, 1969, there was a lot more going on besides college football. — www.wbur.org
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.
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