News Summary
The upcoming Red River Rivalry between Oklahoma and Texas at the Cotton Bowl is expected to cause significant traffic congestion on I-35. With a kickoff scheduled for 2:30 p.m. on October 11th, fans are advised to prepare for delays due to heavy attendance and ongoing road construction along the route. Alternatives like Amtrak’s Heartland Flyer are recommended for travelers. As both teams vie for bragging rights, this historic rivalry remains a cherished tradition since 1900.
Increased Traffic Expected on I-35 as Oklahoma and Texas Fans Head to 121st Red River Rivalry Game
The Game Details
The highly anticipated college football game between Oklahoma and Texas, part of the Red River Rivalry, is set to take place this weekend at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas. This annual matchup, which has become a significant tradition since 1900, is known for its competitive spirit and vibrant atmosphere. The game is scheduled to kick off at 2:30 p.m. on October 11th and will be broadcast live on ABC.
Travel Distances and Times
For fans traveling from the OU campus in Norman, the journey to Texas State Fair Park in Dallas spans approximately 215 miles. Under normal conditions, this drive typically takes about three to three and a half hours on Interstate 35. However, with the game attracting thousands of fans, increased traffic is anticipated on this route.
Road Construction and Traffic Delays
Adding to the potential for delays, ongoing road construction along I-35 may further slow down travel times. Officials are encouraging fans to consider these factors and allow additional time for their journeys. To assist travelers, the Oklahoma Department of Transportation (ODOT) has live traffic cameras available on their website, providing current traffic conditions and updates.
Travel Recommendations
For those seeking a more efficient travel option, ODOT recommends the use of Amtrak’s Heartland Flyer, which offers the only passenger rail service in Oklahoma. The Heartland Flyer departs from Oklahoma City at 8:25 a.m. each day and arrives in Downtown Dallas at 2 p.m.. Fans can board the train at various stations, including Norman, Purcell, Pauls Valley, Ardmore, Gainesville, and Fort Worth, providing convenient options for many.
Ongoing Construction Projects
In addition to general traffic concerns, specific road projects could further complicate travel for fans. Phase 1 of the Cooke County I-35 expansion project has been completed, which widened I-35 through Gainesville, Texas, from four to six lanes. Currently, Phase 2 of this project is in progress, extending from US 82 in Gainesville north to Exit 1 in Oklahoma. This phase includes the construction of two new bridges over the Red River. During this construction period, the northbound bridge will be closed, redirecting traffic to utilize the southbound bridge as a frontage road.
Game Context and Rivalry History
This year’s game holds additional importance as it marks Texas entering the matchup with an unranked status for the first time since 2022, following a 29-21 road loss against Florida. On the other hand, Oklahoma is currently ranked No. 6 in the AP Poll and enters this game undefeated after a convincing 44-0 victory over Kent State. As both teams vie for bragging rights in this significant SEC contest, Texas is slightly favored by 1.5 points over Oklahoma, according to BetMGM Sportsbook.
The rivalry’s history illustrates the longstanding competitive nature of both teams, with each having been founding members of the Southwest Conference in 1914. This matchup has been held at a neutral site in Dallas since 1929, making it a unique and cherished tradition for both fan bases.
The winning team will receive a coveted trophy known as the Golden Hat, a gold, ten-gallon cowboy hat that symbolizes the victory in this intense rivalry. Originally introduced as the “Bronze Hat” in 1941, the trophy has evolved into a significant representation of the annual clash between these two storied programs.
Festivities for Fans
As fans flock to the Texas State Fair during the game weekend, they can enjoy a range of attractions, including various culinary offerings and entertainment. This lively atmosphere adds to the excitement surrounding the matchup, making the Red River Rivalry a full weekend experience for attendees.
As Oklahoma and Texas renew their rivalry, fans should plan ahead for travel to maximize their experience as they participate in this storied tradition.
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Additional Resources
- Statesman: Texas Football vs. Oklahoma TV Info
- AZ Central: Oklahoma Texas Picks and Predictions
- OUDaily: OU vs. Texas Game Info
- SI: How to Watch Oklahoma vs. Texas
- Wikipedia: Red River Rivalry
Author: Construction TX News
TEXAS STAFF WRITER The TEXAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at constructiontxnews.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Texas 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 Texas Construction Expo, major infrastructure unveilings, and advancements in construction technology showcases. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Associated General Contractors of Texas and the Texas Building Branch, plus leading businesses in construction and real estate that power the local economy such as Austin Commercial and CMiC Global. As part of the broader network, including constructioncanews.com, constructionnynews.com, and constructionflnews.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into the dynamic construction landscape across multiple states.
