The Red River Rivalry isn’t just any football game—it's the defining event every Texas Longhorns fan eagerly awaits each year. But here’s where it gets controversial: with decades of intense competition and countless memorable moments, the question remains—how will the 2025 showdown between Texas and Oklahoma unfold, especially with changing weather trends influencing the game atmosphere?
Played every year at the iconic Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas during the lively Texas State Fair, this historic rivalry dates all the way back to 1900. Over 120 clashes, Texas holds a lead with 64 wins to Oklahoma’s 51, illustrating the fierce balance of power that makes this matchup so captivating. Fans have witnessed everything from blazing heatwaves to unexpected cold snaps, making each game unpredictable—not just on the field, but weather-wise.
So, what can fans expect weather-wise for this year’s Texas vs. OU game?
The forecast hints at warmer-than-usual temperatures, blessed with abundant sunshine, gentle winds, and very low humidity—a tailgater’s dream day. Saturday morning kicks off with mild and clear skies, starting at comfortable lows around the mid-60s. By noon, the sun will be shining brightly, nudging temperatures into the lower 80s, setting the perfect scene for a fun day at the fairgrounds.
If you're planning to tailgate, consider iced coffee or other chilled drinks in the morning to stay refreshed. Throughout the day, staying hydrated with water and electrolyte-rich beverages is a smart move. Don't forget your sunscreen and cowboy hat—both essential to protect from the strong Texas sun blazing overhead.
Kickoff happens at 2:30 p.m., when the temperature is expected to climb to roughly 88 or 89 degrees under mostly sunny skies, with soft south winds. That’s about 8 to 10 degrees hotter than a typical early October day in Dallas, so expect a warm, energetic game environment. When the game wraps up around 6 p.m.—hopefully celebrating a Longhorn win—the mercury will still be sitting comfortably in the mid-80s. After sunset at 6:59 p.m., temperatures will gradually cool, dropping into the 70s by 9 p.m., giving everyone a pleasant evening to savor the excitement.
Here are five intriguing weather facts that every Red River Rivalry fan should know:
The hottest showdown: On October 11, 1975, players and fans endured sweltering heat, with temperatures soaring to 95 degrees and kickoff starting at a scorching 90 degrees. Despite the oppressive conditions, Oklahoma triumphed over Texas 24–17.
The coldest contest: Back on November 2, 1906, the game took place in bone-chilling conditions, with temps plummeting to just 38 degrees in Oklahoma. Braving the frost, Texas narrowly edged out Oklahoma 10–9.
The wettest encounter: During the game on October 8, 1983, the Cotton Bowl was drenched with almost 1.7 inches of rain. Despite the soggy conditions and temperatures hovering softly between 64 and 78 degrees, Texas managed to secure a 28–16 victory.
Weather patterns through history: Statistics from Fox Weather reveal that about 12 percent of all Red River Rivalry games have been played with temperatures exceeding 90 degrees, while nearly 19 percent experienced rain—highlighting just how unpredictable Mother Nature can be on game day.
Climate change’s impact: Traditionally, Dallas in early October averages around 81 degrees for the high and 59 for the low. However, data from Climate Central show that fall temperatures in Dallas have risen by an average of 3.7 degrees since 1970. This means the 2025 players face a noticeably warmer environment compared to athletes from half a century ago.
So, what does this all mean for the Red River Rivalry’s future? As the climate warms, could these shifts in weather influence team strategies, player performance, or even fan experience? And for you, which weather condition—scorching heat, bone-chilling cold, or relentless rain—do you think shapes the rivalry most dramatically? Share your thoughts and let’s debate whether these environmental changes add a new layer of challenge and excitement or detract from the tradition of this legendary game.
