Dallas, October 11, 2025
News Summary
The upcoming clash between the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners marks the 121st edition of the Red River Rivalry. Set to take place at Cotton Bowl Stadium, this highly anticipated matchup is expected to draw over 90,000 fans, alongside significant attendees at the State Fair of Texas. The economic impact is estimated at $50 million for the weekend, with enhanced security measures and transportation arrangements in response to past incidents. The Longhorns face crucial stakes while the Sooners aim to maintain their momentum as they navigate injury concerns.
Dallas — The Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners are set to face off in the 121st edition of the Red River Rivalry on October 12, 2024. The game will be played at Cotton Bowl Stadium, which is part of the State Fair of Texas, and is expected to draw a major crowd that will affect transportation, security and the local economy.
Key details and immediate impacts
More than 90,000 fans are expected to attend the game, with approximately 200,000 additional visitors expected at the fairgrounds. The Dallas Sports Commission estimates the economic impact of the weekend is approximately $50 million. The State Fair of Texas will open at 7 a.m. on game day, with gates for Cotton Bowl Stadium opening at 11:30 a.m. and kickoff set for 2:30 p.m. All game tickets include admission to the State Fair of Texas.
Fans should consider arriving early due to anticipated crowds and security checks. The fair has implemented a clear bag policy mirroring that of many sports venues; prohibited items include backpacks and larger purses. Security will be more visible across the area after recent incidents, and transit operators have adjusted services to handle demand.
Transportation and security measures
DART has expanded shuttle services to accommodate fans and minimize overcrowding on trains; five Park and Ride locations will offer direct bus service to the game. In response to recent violent incidents, including a shooting on a DART train, heightened security measures have been implemented, including increased police presence across the transit system. Event organizers and city officials are advising riders to allow extra travel time and to follow posted safety guidance.
The forecast for game day indicates temperatures will be around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, prompting fans to dress for warmth and stay hydrated. Organizers recommend sun protection and water access given the expected heat and large crowds on the fairgrounds.
Teams and stakes
This matchup carries notable implications for both programs. This game marks a pivotal point for the Longhorns, currently unranked at 3-2, seeking to maintain any realistic chance of making the College Football Playoff. The Sooners enter the game strong: The Sooners, ranked No. 6 with a record of 5-0, look to capitalize on their strong season and maintain momentum against Texas.
Texas has experienced uneven results this season after reaching No. 1 in the polls a year ago; the Texas Longhorns previously reached No. 1 in the polls a year ago but have struggled this season, with two losses against Ohio State and Florida. Team preparations reflect the stakes, with the Texas coaching staff stressing a heightened sense of urgency in practices leading up to the matchup. Texas coach Steve Sarkisian emphasized the game’s significance, citing a sense of urgency in practice leading up to the matchup.
Oklahoma is managing injury questions at quarterback. Oklahoma’s starting quarterback’s status remains uncertain; John Mateer is listed as probable for the game after suffering a hand injury. On defense, the Sooners have been productive recently; The Longhorns are hoping to bounce back against an Oklahoma defense that has made headlines for its strong performance, including 14 sacks over the last two games.
Historical context and series record
The teams meet in one of college football’s oldest rivalries. The all-time series record favors Texas, leading with 64 wins to Oklahoma’s 51, and 5 ties. That historical edge provides context for a rivalry that often carries outsized importance in the regular season standings and in fan interest across both states.
What to expect for fans on game day
- Arrive early: Fans should consider arriving early due to anticipated crowds and security checks.
- Entry and timing: State Fair of Texas will open at 7 a.m. on game day, with gates for Cotton Bowl Stadium opening at 11:30 a.m. and kickoff set for 2:30 p.m.
- Tickets and fair access: All game tickets include admission to the State Fair of Texas.
- Bag policy: The fair has implemented a clear bag policy mirroring that of many sports venues; prohibited items include backpacks and larger purses.
- Transit: DART has expanded shuttle services to accommodate fans and minimize overcrowding on trains; five Park and Ride locations will offer direct bus service to the game.
- Security: Due to recent violent incidents, including a shooting on a DART train, heightened security measures have been implemented, including increased police presence across the transit system.
- Weather: The forecast for game day indicates temperatures will be around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, prompting fans to dress for warmth and stay hydrated.
Background and broader city impact
The convergence of a major rivalry game and the State Fair puts additional strains and benefits on Dallas infrastructure. Transit authorities and law enforcement are coordinating to manage flows and safety across the fairgrounds and surrounding neighborhoods. Local businesses and hospitality sectors are preparing for elevated demand tied to the event, reflected in the Dallas Sports Commission estimates the economic impact of the weekend is approximately $50 million.
Large gatherings at the State Fair of Texas during game weekends have historically driven hotel occupancy, restaurant traffic and retail spending. Organizers expect the combined draw of the game and the fair to produce both logistical challenges and revenue opportunities for the city.
FAQ
When are the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners set to face off?
The Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners are set to face off in the 121st edition of the Red River Rivalry on October 12, 2024.
Where will the game be played?
The game will take place at Cotton Bowl Stadium, which is part of the State Fair of Texas.
How many people are expected to attend?
More than 90,000 fans are expected to attend the game, with approximately 200,000 additional visitors expected at the fairgrounds.
What is the estimated economic impact?
The Dallas Sports Commission estimates the economic impact of the weekend is approximately $50 million.
What are the fair and stadium opening times?
The State Fair of Texas will open at 7 a.m. on game day, with gates for Cotton Bowl Stadium opening at 11:30 a.m. and kickoff set for 2:30 p.m.
Do game tickets include fair admission?
All game tickets include admission to the State Fair of Texas.
Are there any special transit arrangements?
DART has expanded shuttle services to accommodate fans and minimize overcrowding on trains; five Park and Ride locations will offer direct bus service to the game.
What security changes have been made?
Due to recent violent incidents, including a shooting on a DART train, heightened security measures have been implemented, including increased police presence across the transit system.
What is the weather forecast?
The forecast for game day indicates temperatures will be around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, prompting fans to dress for warmth and stay hydrated.
What are the team records and stakes?
This game marks a pivotal point for the Longhorns, currently unranked at 3-2, seeking to maintain any realistic chance of making the College Football Playoff.
What is Oklahoma’s standing?
The Sooners, ranked No. 6 with a record of 5-0, look to capitalize on their strong season and maintain momentum against Texas.
What recent struggles has Texas faced?
The Texas Longhorns previously reached No. 1 in the polls a year ago but have struggled this season, with two losses against Ohio State and Florida.
What did the Texas coach note about preparation?
Texas coach Steve Sarkisian emphasized the game’s significance, citing a sense of urgency in practice leading up to the matchup.
What is the status of Oklahoma’s quarterback?
Oklahoma’s starting quarterback’s status remains uncertain; John Mateer is listed as probable for the game after suffering a hand injury.
What recent defensive performance has Oklahoma shown?
The Longhorns are hoping to bounce back against an Oklahoma defense that has made headlines for its strong performance, including 14 sacks over the last two games.
What is the historical series record?
The all-time series record favors Texas, leading with 64 wins to Oklahoma’s 51, and 5 ties.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Game | The Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners are set to face off in the 121st edition of the Red River Rivalry on October 12, 2024. |
| Venue | The game will take place at Cotton Bowl Stadium, which is part of the State Fair of Texas. |
| Expected attendance | More than 90,000 fans are expected to attend the game, with approximately 200,000 additional visitors expected at the fairgrounds. |
| Economic impact | The Dallas Sports Commission estimates the economic impact of the weekend is approximately $50 million. |
| Fair and stadium timing | The State Fair of Texas will open at 7 a.m. on game day, with gates for Cotton Bowl Stadium opening at 11:30 a.m. and kickoff set for 2:30 p.m. |
| Transit | DART has expanded shuttle services to accommodate fans and minimize overcrowding on trains; five Park and Ride locations will offer direct bus service to the game. |
| Security | Due to recent violent incidents, including a shooting on a DART train, heightened security measures have been implemented, including increased police presence across the transit system. |
| Weather | The forecast for game day indicates temperatures will be around 90 degrees Fahrenheit, prompting fans to dress for warmth and stay hydrated. |
| Team status | This game marks a pivotal point for the Longhorns, currently unranked at 3-2, seeking to maintain any realistic chance of making the College Football Playoff; The Sooners, ranked No. 6 with a record of 5-0, look to capitalize on their strong season and maintain momentum against Texas. |
| Series record | The all-time series record favors Texas, leading with 64 wins to Oklahoma’s 51, and 5 ties. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Red River Showdown Weekend in Dallas
Red River Rivalry Set for Dallas Showdown
John Mateer’s Uncertain Status Ahead of Red River Rivalry
Oklahoma Quarterback John Mateer Recovering from Surgery
Texas Tech vs Arkansas Rivalry Game Scheduled
Texas Leads New Business Revolution
Texas Tightens Its Grip: The Race to Become the New Corporate Capital
Additional Resources
- NBC DFW: Dallas Prepares for Major Traffic Economic Boost from Red River Rivalry Weekend
- Fox 4 News: Texas, OU Prepare for Red River Rivalry Match
- Dallas News: Everything to Know About Texas-Oklahoma Rivalry
- CBS News: Police Presence Surges for Red River Showdown
- Wikipedia: Red River Rivalry
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
DALLAS STAFF WRITER The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
