The intense rivalry between Texas Tech and Texas A&M is one that has been years in the making. From the gridiron to the hardwood, these two Lone Star State schools have a long history of competition that spans decades. Whether it's on the field or off, the Red Raiders and Aggies have a deep-seated dislike for one another that's hard to ignore.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at six fascinating facts surrounding the Texas Tech vs. Texas A&M rivalry. From the early days of their rivalry to the present, we'll explore the unique dynamics that make this series so compelling.
The Birth of a Rivalry
The Texas Tech-Texas A&M rivalry dates back to 1927, when the two teams first faced off on the football field. The Aggies emerged victorious in that initial matchup, but it wasn't long before the Red Raiders began to make their presence known. Over the years, the rivalry has ebbed and flowed, with both teams experiencing periods of dominance and drought.
A Family Affair
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Texas Tech-Texas A&M rivalry is the role of family ties. In 2013, Kliff Kingsbury, the son of a Texas A&M alum, became the head coach at Texas Tech. Kingsbury's hiring sparked a renewed sense of enthusiasm among Red Raider fans, who saw him as the perfect candidate to take down their arch-nemesis. On the flip side, the Aggies have their own coaching connection to the rivalry. Former Texas A&M head coach Mike Sherman's son, Ben, played for the Red Raiders in the early 2000s.
The Game of the Century
The 1999 matchup between Texas Tech and Texas A&M is widely regarded as one of the greatest games in college football history. The Red Raiders, led by quarterback Kliff Kingsbury, faced off against a loaded Aggie squad featuring future NFL stars like Dat Nguyen and Shane Lechler. The game was an instant classic, with Texas A&M emerging victorious 21-19. The defeat still stings for Texas Tech fans, who point to the loss as a missed opportunity to claim the Big 12 championship.
Rivalry Renewed
After a brief hiatus, the Texas Tech-Texas A&M rivalry was rekindled in 2020. The two teams met on the gridiron for the first time in nearly a decade, with the Aggies coming out on top 34-28. The game marked a new chapter in the series, with both teams boasting talented rosters and high-powered offenses. As the rivalry continues to evolve, one thing is certain: the intensity and passion between these two teams will only continue to grow.
Printable Rivalry Schedules
For fans looking to stay on top of the Texas Tech-Texas A&M rivalry, we've got you covered. Below, you'll find printable schedules for both teams, featuring their upcoming matchups and rivalry games.
Gameday Traditions
The Texas Tech-Texas A&M rivalry is as much about the fans as it is the teams themselves. From the tailgating to the marching bands, there's no shortage of excitement on gameday. One of the most beloved traditions is the "Maroon Out," where Aggie fans don maroon jerseys and clothing to show their support. Meanwhile, Red Raider fans have their own tradition, the "Raider Walk," where the team walks through a tunnel of fans on their way to the stadium.
Growing the Rivalry
As the Texas Tech-Texas A&M rivalry continues to grow, there's no shortage of excitement among fans. With the addition of new coaches, players, and storylines, the series is primed for even more drama and intensity. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking to get in on the action, there's never been a better time to be a part of the Texas Tech-Texas A&M rivalry.
What's Your Take?
We want to hear from you! Share your thoughts on the Texas Tech-Texas A&M rivalry in the comments below. What's your favorite memory from the series? Do you think the Red Raiders or Aggies will come out on top in their next matchup? Let's get the conversation started!
What is the Texas Tech-Texas A&M rivalry?
+The Texas Tech-Texas A&M rivalry is a longstanding series of athletic competitions between Texas Tech University and Texas A&M University.
When did the rivalry begin?
+The Texas Tech-Texas A&M rivalry dates back to 1927.
What sports are included in the rivalry?
+The Texas Tech-Texas A&M rivalry includes a variety of sports, including football, basketball, and baseball.