Examining Texas Longhorns’ Lengthy Cotton Bowl History
The Cotton Bowl is one of the most prestigious postseason bowl games in college football, and the Texas Longhorns have had a significant and storied history within this game. From its humble beginnings in the 1930s to becoming a major fixture in college football, the Cotton Bowl has served as a stage for some of the most memorable moments in the sport. For the Longhorns, their involvement in the Cotton Bowl has been marked by a series of key games, thrilling victories, and sometimes heartbreak, making the bowl a crucial part of their football legacy. This article delves into the Texas Longhorns’ lengthy Cotton Bowl history, examining the pivotal games, players, and moments that have shaped the program’s relationship with this iconic bowl game.
The Early Years: Texas and the Cotton Bowl
The Cotton Bowl Classic, first played in 1937, was established as part of a growing tradition of New Year’s Day college football bowl games. The game is held in Dallas, Texas, and has long been a symbol of the South’s passion for football. From its early days, the Cotton Bowl was regarded as a high-profile bowl, attracting top teams from across the country. However, it wasn’t until the 1940s and 1950s that the Texas Longhorns became regular participants in the game, beginning a tradition that would last for decades.
The first Cotton Bowl appearance for Texas came in 1943, when the Longhorns faced off against the Georgia Bulldogs. Though Texas lost the game 7-40, the appearance marked the beginning of the Longhorns’ long-standing association with the Cotton Bowl. During the early years of the game, Texas was known for its hard-hitting defense and conservative, ball-control offense, traits that would define the program for many years.
By the 1950s, Texas had become a major force in college football, and their success on the field began to earn them more prominent bowl invitations. The Longhorns’ growing reputation led to more appearances in the Cotton Bowl, and by 1959, Texas secured its first Cotton Bowl victory, defeating the Air Force Falcons 24-14. This victory was significant not only because it marked the program’s first win in the prestigious bowl, but also because it showcased the potential of the Longhorns under head coach Darrell Royal, who would go on to become one of the most legendary coaches in college football history.
The Darrell Royal Era and Dominance in the 1960s
The 1960s represented the heyday of Texas Longhorn football, as the program dominated both the Southwest Conference and college football as a whole. Under head coach Darrell Royal, Texas became one of the most successful and feared teams in the nation, and their performances in the Cotton Bowl were a major part of their success during this era.
One of the most iconic moments in the Longhorns’ Cotton Bowl history came in 1964, when Texas faced off against the Navy Midshipmen. The game was especially memorable because of the showdown between Texas’ star running back, James Street, and Navy’s future Heisman Trophy winner, Roger Staubach. In a thrilling, hard-fought contest, Texas emerged victorious 28-6, cementing their place as one of the nation’s premier teams.
Texas would continue to dominate the Cotton Bowl in the 1960s. Their victories in 1963, 1964, and 1966 further established the program’s prominence and set the stage for their future success. The 1969 season, in particular, was a standout for the Longhorns, as they entered the Cotton Bowl with a national championship on the line. Texas faced off against the previously unbeaten Notre Dame Fighting Irish in a game that is widely considered one of the greatest in college football history.
The game, played on January 1, 1970, was a fitting conclusion to an unforgettable season. Texas, led by legendary quarterback James Street, defeated Notre Dame 21-17 in a dramatic contest that secured their first-ever national championship under Royal. The victory not only solidified the Longhorns’ place in college football history but also highlighted their dominance in the Cotton Bowl during this era. It was a win that would be etched into the memories of Texas fans for generations to come.
The 1970s and 1980s: A Shift in the Landscape
After the glory years of the 1960s, the Texas Longhorns experienced a shift in their Cotton Bowl fortunes during the 1970s and 1980s. While the program remained one of the top teams in college football, their appearances in the Cotton Bowl became less frequent, and the team experienced a series of ups and downs in the postseason.
The 1970s saw a change in college football, with more teams emerging as national contenders and conference realignment shifting the landscape. Despite this, Texas remained competitive, earning a bid to the Cotton Bowl in 1972, where they defeated the Tennessee Volunteers 28-7. However, their success in the Cotton Bowl became less consistent as the years went on, with the Longhorns only making sporadic appearances in the game during the 1970s and 1980s.
While the Longhorns struggled to consistently reach the Cotton Bowl, they remained competitive in other major bowl games, including the Orange Bowl and the Sugar Bowl. However, the 1980s did see a resurgence of Texas football under head coach Fred Akers, as the program returned to prominence in the Southwest Conference and began to contend for national championships again. Akers’ teams were known for their powerful offenses, and the Longhorns’ talent continued to shine on the national stage.
Despite the lack of consistency in their Cotton Bowl appearances, Texas’ involvement in the game during this period served to remind fans of the program’s longstanding legacy and the pride the team had in representing the state of Texas on the national stage. As the 1980s gave way to the 1990s, the Longhorns would once again return to the Cotton Bowl and reaffirm their place as one of college football’s elite programs.
The 1990s and 2000s: Resurgence and New Rivalries
The 1990s and 2000s marked a period of resurgence for the Texas Longhorns, as the team returned to national prominence under head coach Mack Brown. Brown, who took over as head coach in 1998, revitalized the program and guided Texas to new heights, including multiple Cotton Bowl appearances.
The Longhorns’ return to the Cotton Bowl came in 2001, when they faced the Arkansas Razorbacks in a thrilling matchup. Texas defeated Arkansas 38-7 in a game that showcased the program’s offensive firepower and its ability to dominate in bowl games. The 2001 Cotton Bowl victory was one of many highlights for the Longhorns during Brown’s tenure as head coach.
In 2004, Texas once again found themselves in the Cotton Bowl, this time taking on the Michigan Wolverines. The Longhorns, led by quarterback Vince Young, turned in an unforgettable performance, defeating Michigan 38-37 in one of the most thrilling games in Cotton Bowl history. The win helped solidify Texas’ reputation as one of the top programs in the country and set the stage for even greater success in the years to come.
The Modern Era: Texas and the Cotton Bowl in the 2010s and Beyond
In the 2010s and beyond, Texas’ involvement in the Cotton Bowl has been less frequent, though they have continued to compete at a high level. The program has undergone several coaching changes and navigated a period of rebuilding, but they have always remained a prominent force in college football.
In 2018, the Longhorns made their return to the Cotton Bowl, taking on the Georgia Bulldogs. Texas, under head coach Tom Herman, shocked the college football world with a 28-21 victory that helped elevate the program’s profile and gave fans hope for the future. The win was a testament to Texas’ resilience and ability to compete with some of the best teams in the nation.
While Texas has not made as many appearances in the Cotton Bowl in recent years as they did in the past, their legacy in the game remains secure. The Longhorns’ historic performances, including their dramatic victories, their iconic players, and their relentless drive to succeed, have left an indelible mark on the bowl game’s history.
Conclusion: A Storied Legacy
The Texas Longhorns’ history in the Cotton Bowl is a reflection of the program’s long-standing tradition of excellence in college football. From their early struggles to their dominant run in the 1960s to their resurgence in the 2000s, Texas has always been a formidable presence in the postseason. The Cotton Bowl, in particular, has served as a backdrop for some of the most iconic moments in Texas football history, with each appearance further cementing the Longhorns’ place as one of the nation’s elite programs.
While the Longhorns may not appear in the Cotton Bowl every year, their legacy within the game is undeniable. Whether through dramatic victories, thrilling comebacks, or legendary performances, Texas’ relationship with the Cotton Bowl continues to be an important part of the program’s identity. As the Longhorns continue to build their future in college football, the memories of past Cotton Bowl appearances will serve as a reminder of the program’s greatness and its lasting impact on the game.
