History of Texas Football Championships: How Many National Titles Have the Longhorns Won?
The University of Texas Longhorns football program is one of the most storied and successful in college football history. Known for its rich tradition, passionate fanbase, and legendary players, the Longhorns have long been one of the elite programs in the nation. However, what truly separates Texas from many other programs is its track record of success in the form of national championships.
With a program history spanning over a century, the Texas Longhorns have claimed multiple national titles, cementing their legacy as one of college football’s most dominant programs. But how many national championships have the Longhorns actually won? To fully appreciate Texas’ standing in college football history, we must look back at the program’s most successful seasons, the coaches who led them to glory, and the players who made the most significant impact.
In this article, we will explore the history of Texas football championships, from their first title in 1963 to their most recent victory in 2005, as well as the impact of the Longhorns’ success on the college football landscape.
Early Years and Establishment of Texas Football
Before diving into their national title history, it’s essential to understand the foundation of Texas football. The University of Texas first fielded a football team in 1893, and although the team was competitive early on, it wasn’t until the 1920s and 1930s that the Longhorns began to emerge as a significant force in college football.
The program saw early success under coaches like Dana X. Bible and Clyde Littlefield, who helped establish a winning tradition. However, Texas was still in the process of building the necessary infrastructure and recruiting pipelines to become a true national power. It wasn’t until the 1960s that the Longhorns would win their first national championship, laying the groundwork for the dominance that would follow in the decades to come.
1963 National Championship: The Beginning of Texas’ Glory Years
The first national championship in Texas football history came in 1963 under the guidance of head coach Darrell Royal. Royal, who took over as head coach in 1957, had already built a reputation for his ability to recruit and develop talent. His Texas teams were known for their tough, disciplined play, and the 1963 season would be one of the finest in program history.
The Longhorns finished the season with an 11-0 record, dominating opponents en route to the title. Texas’ defense was a major strength, allowing just 67 points all season, and the team was led by star players like quarterback Craig Morton and running back Mike Cotten. The Longhorns defeated a formidable Navy team in the Cotton Bowl, securing the 1963 national championship. Texas was crowned champion by the Associated Press (AP) poll, marking the beginning of a golden era for the program.
Darrell Royal’s Texas teams would go on to achieve even greater success in the following years, but the 1963 national championship remains a key milestone in the program’s storied history.
1969 National Championship: Texas’ Second Title
The Longhorns’ next national championship came in 1969, another banner year for coach Darrell Royal. This season is particularly memorable because it featured one of the most iconic games in college football history: the “Game of the Century” between Texas and the top-ranked Arkansas Razorbacks.
Texas entered the game as the second-ranked team in the country, trailing only Arkansas, and the two teams had been on a collision course throughout the season. The showdown took place at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, and it was a defensive struggle for most of the game. In the end, the Longhorns emerged victorious with a hard-fought 15-14 win, clinching the Southwest Conference title and setting the stage for a national championship.
Led by quarterback James Street, who threw a crucial touchdown pass in the second half, Texas was able to hold off Arkansas and finish the season undefeated at 11-0. The Longhorns were once again named national champions, this time by both the AP and Coaches’ polls. The 1969 championship solidified Darrell Royal’s legacy as one of the greatest coaches in college football history and cemented Texas as a dominant force in the sport.
1970 National Championship: A Controversial Season
Although the 1970 season did not end with a national title for Texas, it remains an important chapter in the program’s history. Texas finished the regular season 10-1-1, but a controversial tie against Notre Dame in the Cotton Bowl led to Texas being shut out of the national championship. Despite the disappointment, the Longhorns were still considered one of the best teams in the country.
Texas, under Darrell Royal, continued to be a dominant force throughout the 1970s, but it was not until 1977 that they would again claim a national championship.
2005 National Championship: The Return to Glory
The Longhorns’ most recent national championship came in 2005, a monumental year for the program. Led by head coach Mack Brown, Texas returned to the pinnacle of college football with one of the most memorable seasons in recent memory. The team was stacked with talent, led by a star quarterback named Vince Young, who would go on to become a legend in Texas football lore.
Texas entered the 2005 season with high expectations and lived up to them with a perfect 12-0 regular season. The Longhorns’ offense, led by Young, was explosive and nearly unstoppable. Young was a dual-threat quarterback who could both throw the ball and run effectively, and he took full advantage of his talent to put up huge numbers. On defense, Texas was also formidable, with standout players like linebacker Derrick Johnson anchoring the defense.
In the Rose Bowl, Texas faced off against the USC Trojans, a team that was widely regarded as one of the most talented in college football history. USC entered the game with a 34-game winning streak and was led by star quarterback Matt Leinart, running back Reggie Bush, and wide receiver Dwayne Jarrett. The stage was set for an epic showdown.
What followed was one of the greatest college football games ever played. Texas and USC traded blows throughout the game, with Vince Young putting on a spectacular performance. In the final minutes, with the game on the line, Young ran for a game-winning touchdown, securing a 41-38 victory for Texas and delivering the program’s first national title in 36 years.
Vince Young’s performance in the Rose Bowl was nothing short of legendary, earning him the game’s MVP honors. His game-winning drive and leadership throughout the season made him a household name, and he remains a beloved figure in Texas football history. The 2005 national championship marked the culmination of Mack Brown’s tenure at Texas, solidifying his place among the elite coaches in college football.
Texas National Titles: A Legacy of Excellence
While Texas has won two official national championships, in 1963 and 1969, it is important to note that the program has a long and storied history of success, even in seasons where they did not capture the national title. Throughout the years, Texas has consistently been a contender for national championships, and its tradition of excellence has earned it a place among the most respected programs in college football.
Additionally, Texas has consistently produced some of the best players in the history of the game. Legends like Earl Campbell, Ricky Williams, and Vince Young all contributed to Texas’ winning tradition, and their individual accomplishments have further cemented the program’s place in college football lore.
The Texas-Ohio State Rivalry and Future Aspirations
As the 2024 season begins, Texas remains a program on the rise. The Longhorns’ move to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in 2024 signals a new era for the program, with new challenges and new opportunities. However, one thing is certain: Texas will continue to be a force to be reckoned with in college football.
As the Longhorns prepare to take on some of the most formidable programs in the country, including their historic rivals from Ohio State, they have the ambition to add another national championship to their storied history. The foundation of success, both on and off the field, is already in place, and the Longhorns will look to build on their rich legacy of championships as they push toward the future.
Conclusion: Texas’ National Championship Legacy
The Texas Longhorns have long been one of college football’s elite programs, with a rich history that spans more than a century. With two national championships — one in 1963 and another in 1969 — as well as a memorable title in 2005, Texas has solidified itself as one of the best teams in college football history.
While their championship haul may not be as large as some other programs, the Longhorns’ impact on the sport and their legacy of excellence is undeniable. From the early years under Darrell Royal to the resurgence in the mid-2000s under Mack Brown, Texas football has remained a symbol of pride and tradition. As the team looks forward to a new era in the SEC, it will undoubtedly continue to strive for championships, building on a rich legacy that has inspired generations of fans and players alike.
