With kickoff just 14 hours away, excitement is building for the latest installment of the Red River rivalry between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the University of Texas Longhorns in the Cotton Bowl. As fans head to Dallas for the highly anticipated matchup, the game takes on added significance as both teams compete in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).

Even though this is the first Red River Rivalry, the game will still be full of crazy upsets, turnovers, sloppy play and heroics. The only difference will be a completely different region. The nation’s eyes will be open to how special the Red River rivalry is between two schools that hate each other.

“There’s nothing like it, because you see a wave of orange and crimson. You see a side here that encourages us. You see another side throwing down their horns and cheering. It’s just crazy. It gives you energy as soon as you roll them on the bus,” said Texas Longhorns Linebacker, David Gbenda.

Contrary to tradition, this year’s competition will start at 2:30 PM, a deviation from the usual start time of 11:00 AM. Fans will be in the middle of the Texas State Fair festivities, making for a lively game day atmosphere.

In the spirit of camaraderie, the annual Red River Sing-Off competition took place at the Galleria in Dallas, featuring performances by the OU Men’s Glee Club and the Longhorn Singers. This friendly tradition showcases the talent and spirit of both universities ahead of the big game.

Coverage will continue leading up to the game, with updates from the Texas State Fair following, which will hopefully bring good news for Sooners fans.