Where Is the Red River Showdown Played?
The Red River Showdown is an annual college football game played between the University of Texas Longhorns and the University of Oklahoma Sooners. It is one of the most highly anticipated and prestigious rivalries in college football, attracting fans from both teams and around the country. The game is held at a neutral site each year, alternating between the Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas, Texas, and the Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Oklahoma.
The Cotton Bowl Stadium, located in Fair Park, Dallas, has been the traditional venue for the Red River Showdown since 1929. The historic stadium has a seating capacity of over 92,000 and is known for its unique setting, as it is situated on the grounds of the State Fair of Texas. The game is usually scheduled during the second weekend of the fair, adding to the festive atmosphere surrounding the event. The stadium boasts a rich football history and has witnessed countless memorable moments throughout the years.
On the other hand, the Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium, also known as Owen Field, is the home stadium for the University of Oklahoma Sooners. With a seating capacity of over 86,000, this stadium is known for its passionate fan base and electric atmosphere. While it primarily serves as the home field for the Sooners, it occasionally hosts the Red River Showdown in years when the game is not held at the Cotton Bowl Stadium.
The decision to alternate the venue between the two stadiums was made to ensure fairness and provide both teams with an equal opportunity to play on their respective home turf. This arrangement has allowed fans from both schools to experience the excitement of the rivalry firsthand and has contributed to the unique and thrilling nature of the game.
FAQs:
1. When was the first Red River Showdown game played?
The first Red River Showdown game was played in 1900.
2. How many times has the game been played at the Cotton Bowl Stadium?
As of 2021, the game has been played at the Cotton Bowl Stadium 76 times.
3. How many times has the game been played at the Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium?
As of 2021, the game has been played at the Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium 48 times.
4. Is the game always played in Dallas and Norman?
Yes, the game is always played in one of these two cities, alternating each year.
5. How are the venues determined?
The venues are determined through an agreement between the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma, with each team hosting the game in their respective stadiums on alternate years.
6. Can fans attend the State Fair of Texas during the game?
Yes, fans attending the game at the Cotton Bowl Stadium have the opportunity to explore the State Fair of Texas before or after the game.
7. How long does the State Fair of Texas last?
The State Fair of Texas typically lasts for about three weeks, usually starting in late September and ending in mid-October.
8. How do fans get tickets for the Red River Showdown?
Tickets for the Red River Showdown can be purchased through the respective universities’ ticket offices or through authorized ticket vendors.
9. How much do tickets typically cost?
Ticket prices vary depending on the seating location and demand, but they generally range from $100 to $500.
10. How can fans from out of state watch the game?
The game is typically broadcast nationally on major sports networks, such as ESPN or ABC, allowing fans from all over the country to watch it on television.
11. Who holds the overall series lead in the Red River Showdown?
As of 2021, the University of Texas holds the overall series lead with 62 wins, while the University of Oklahoma has 49 wins, and there have been 5 ties.
12. Has the game ever been canceled?
The game has only been canceled three times in its history: in 1918 due to World War I, in 1924 due to a dispute over player eligibility, and in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
13. Are there any additional events or festivities surrounding the game?
Yes, the Red River Showdown is often accompanied by various pre-game events and celebrations, including parades, pep rallies, and tailgating parties, which further enhance the overall experience for fans attending the game.
In conclusion, the Red River Showdown is a highly anticipated college football game played between the University of Texas Longhorns and the University of Oklahoma Sooners. The game is held at a neutral site, alternating between the Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas, Texas, and the Gaylord Family Oklahoma Memorial Stadium in Norman, Oklahoma. This arrangement ensures fairness and provides fans from both schools with a chance to experience the rivalry on their respective home turfs. The game’s rich history, passionate fan base, and unique atmosphere make it one of the most exciting and prestigious rivalries in college football.
