Texas wasted no time in settling comfortably into its role as the villain upon joining the SEC, entering with as much subtlety as a Bernese mountain dog. After just four months, loyalists of the SEC have quickly realized what college football fans have known for ages: outside of burnt orange blood, there is little love for the Longhorns.
Ahead of the Cotton Bowl matchup between Ohio State and Texas, let’s explore three key factors to watch. Despite its affiliation with various conferences and declarations of loyalty, Texas remains an island unto itself. It boasts the wealthiest and most arrogant sports program, asserting dominance simply because it can – after all, they’re Texas, and you’re not.
Historically, Texas dominated the old Southwest Conference until other teams resorted to cheating to keep up. Following the SWC’s collapse and the absorption of four teams into the Big 12, the conference offices conveniently relocated from Kansas City to Dallas. Coincidence? Doubtful.
In 2010, tensions within the Big 12 nearly led to its dissolution as Texas sought greater media revenue. A compromise was struck, resulting in the creation of the Longhorn Network by ESPN and Fox. Despite the lucrative deal, Texas only clinched one Big 12 title during its 13-year run.
This envy towards Texas came to a head this season, with SEC coaches and ADs anonymously expressing discontent over the Longhorns’ advantageous schedule. While the SEC insists on meticulous scheduling, critics argue that Texas faced weaker opponents until late in the season.
The Cotton Bowl semifinal highlighted the divide between traditional SEC fans and supporters of Texas and Ohio State. A significant portion of the audience showed disinterest in Texas, reflecting a sentiment shared by many within the SEC.
In the end, the disdain towards Texas serves as a reminder of its polarizing presence in college football. As the last hope for the College Football Playoff, Texas faces an uphill battle winning over hardened SEC fans.
