Texas Fight Echoes Through Campus Ahead of the Red River Rivalry Showdown

By Paisley Porter

Reporting Texas

The Longhorn Band marches down Guadalupe playing Texas rally songs. Paisley Porter/Reporting Texas

The streets of campus were flooded with students cheering, the band playing as University of Texas students, alumni, and fans rallied for the Texas OU Fight Parade & Rally.

Held each October, ahead of the Red River Rivalry game, the parade is a 120-year-old celebration of Longhorn pride. As one of the most spirited traditions on campus, the event has drawn thousands of students who march down the Drag to the tower. 

Student organizations like the Longhorn Hellraisers, Texas Sweethearts and the Texas Blazers & Orange Jackets gathered to show off their vibrantly painted banners for the annual contest. 

Despite the Longhorns’ previous drop from the AP ranking earlier this season, the energy on campus hasn’t wavered. Students flocked to the tower to cheer on the team that they love.

“If you were to ask me what the heartbeat of Texas is, I would definitely say the Longhorn Band,” said Abby Saenz, a member of the Longhorn Band. “We bring the energy, we bring the vibes. We march through Guadelupe, and we are able to connect with Texas fans down the road.”

For senior Evelyn Jackson, the parade is a fun chance to stir up a family rivalry. 

“It means a lot ot me because my cousin goes to OU, so I love to send her videos of how energetic and hyped we are to go beat her team,” Jackson said. “We’ve got it this year.”

With horns raised and spirits high, the message was clear: “OU still sucks.” 

“Last year we won. We’re gonna win this year. It’s a tradition of winning against OU,” said Bouwhuis.

The night ended with words of inspiration from head football coach Steve Sarkisian and standout safety Michael Taffee, who fired up the crowd with his confidence ahead of the big game.

“We’re gonna need all of y’all, come Saturday,” Taffee said. “Bring the juice, bring the noise, get rowdy.”

Taffee said that the team would be sure to bring the Golden Hat back to Texas. 

The Longhorns took on the Oklahoma Sooners Saturday at the Cotton Bowl and defeated them 23-6. If this parade was any indication, the Longhorns came ready to fight for the Red River Rivalry.