History

Top 5 Legendary Performances in Red River Rivalry History

• Red River Rivalry Staff
#Players #History #Greatest Games #Legends

The Red River Rivalry has been the stage for some of college football’s most memorable individual performances. Here are five that stand out above the rest.

1. Vince Young’s 2005 Masterpiece

Texas 45, Oklahoma 12 - October 8, 2005

Vince Young put on a clinic against Oklahoma in what would be his Heisman-caliber season (though he finished second).

Stats:

  • 4 Total TDs (2 passing, 2 rushing)
  • Complete control of the game
  • Led Texas to eventual National Championship

This performance showcased Young at his best: making plays with his arm and legs, leading his team with confidence, and dismantling a rivalry opponent.

2. Adrian Peterson’s Freshman Debut

Oklahoma 12, Texas 0 - October 9, 2004

Adrian Peterson announced his arrival to college football with a legendary performance as a true freshman.

Stats:

  • 225 rushing yards
  • Game-winning touchdown
  • Set freshman record for the rivalry

“All Day” AP lived up to his nickname, carrying Oklahoma to victory in a defensive struggle. It was the beginning of a Hall of Fame career.

3. Colt McCoy vs #1 Oklahoma (2008)

Texas 45, Oklahoma 35 - October 11, 2008

Colt McCoy led one of the biggest upsets in rivalry history, knocking off #1-ranked Oklahoma.

Stats:

  • 277 passing yards
  • 2 passing TDs
  • Zero turnovers
  • Led Texas to #1 ranking

McCoy’s poise and accuracy were perfect. His post-game celebration with the Golden Hat became iconic.

4. Sam Bradford’s 2007 Debut

Oklahoma 28, Texas 21 - October 6, 2007

As a redshirt freshman, Sam Bradford showcased the precision passing that would win him a Heisman Trophy the next season.

Stats:

  • 387 passing yards
  • 3 TDs
  • Newcomer announcement game

Bradford proved he was the real deal, leading Oklahoma to victory in his first Red River Rivalry start.

5. Earl Campbell’s Heisman Statement (1977)

Texas 13, Oklahoma 6 - October 8, 1977

In his Heisman Trophy-winning season, Earl Campbell delivered when it mattered most.

Stats:

  • 124 rushing yards
  • Trademark power running
  • Led Texas to victory

The Tyler Rose’s performance against Oklahoma was a statement: he was the best player in college football that year.

Honorable Mentions

  • Baker Mayfield’s 2017 Farewell: 302 yards, 2 TDs (and that flag plant)
  • Ricky Williams’s 1998 Heisman Game: 139 yards, 2 TDs in 34-3 win
  • Billy Sims’s 1978 Performance: 131 yards in his Heisman season
  • Roy Williams’s “Superman” Tackle (2001): One play that defined a game

What Makes These Performances Special

These weren’t just good stat lines—they were statement games in the biggest rivalry matchup of the year. The players elevated their game when it mattered most, under the brightest lights, with everything on the line.

That’s what the Red River Rivalry does: it brings out the best (and sometimes worst) in everyone involved.

The Next Legend

Who will be the next player to etch their name in rivalry lore? We’ll find out October 11, 2025 at the Cotton Bowl.

Get your tickets to see history

Related Reading: