Red River Rivalry 2026
Complete Game Guide
Game Information
Texas will be the away team in 2026 • Part of SEC Conference Schedule
Experience the Renovated Cotton Bowl
The Cotton Bowl's $140 million west-side renovation debuted for the 2025 State Fair and Red River Rivalry. Fans in 2026 should continue to see those upgrades, while future east-side work remains a separate long-term phase.
New Amenities Include:
- ✓ 14 new escalators on west side
- ✓ Premium club seating areas
- ✓ Outdoor terraces with views
- ✓ Enhanced concessions
- ✓ Improved restroom facilities
- ✓ Modern WiFi infrastructure
What This Means for Fans:
- ✓ Faster entry and exit
- ✓ Better sightlines
- ✓ Luxury seating options
- ✓ Enhanced game day experience
- ✓ Modern stadium technology
How to Watch
📺 TV
Network: TBA
The 2026 Red River kickoff window and network have not been announced. ABC/ESPN remains the likely broadcast family for SEC inventory.
💻 Streaming
- • ESPN app if assigned to ABC/ESPN
- • YouTube TV
- • Hulu + Live TV
- • FuboTV
- • Provider availability depends on final TV assignment
📻 Radio
Texas: Longhorn Radio Network
Oklahoma: Sooner Radio Network
2026 Team Previews
Texas Longhorns
2025 Record: 10-3, Final AP No. 12
Away Team in 2026
Looking Ahead to 2026
Texas enters year three of the SEC era after a 10-win 2025 season capped by a Citrus Bowl win. Arch Manning's return keeps the Longhorns near the center of the national conversation.
Key Questions
- • How much cleaner can Arch Manning be in year two as QB1?
- • Can Texas build on recent success vs Oklahoma?
- • How will recruiting impact the roster?
Detailed Preview
Complete analysis will be available August 2026
Oklahoma Sooners
2025 Record: 10-3, Final AP No. 13
Home Team in 2026
Looking Ahead to 2026
Under head coach Brent Venables, Oklahoma continues building its SEC identity after a 10-win 2025 season and a CFP first-round appearance. The Sooners are trying to turn spring momentum into a Golden Hat response.
Key Questions
- • How will recruiting classes mature by 2026?
- • Can OU reverse recent trends vs Texas?
- • What offensive identity will OU establish?
Detailed Preview
Complete analysis will be available August 2026
Recent Matchups
🏈 SEC Conference Context
By the 2026 season, Texas and Oklahoma will be entering their third year in the Southeastern Conference. This rivalry game will count as an SEC conference matchup with implications for:
🏆 SEC Championship
Win counts toward SEC standings and potential championship game berth
🎯 College Football Playoff
Major impact on 12-team playoff positioning and at-large bids
📊 Recruiting
Massive recruiting implications for Texas high school talent
Note: Texas and Oklahoma are among each other's permanent annual opponents in the SEC's 9-game conference schedule format (2026-2029).
Game Day Experience in 2026
🌤️ Weather
Dallas in early October typically sees:
- • High: 75-85°F (24-29°C)
- • Low: 55-65°F (13-18°C)
- • Mostly sunny, low chance of rain
Specific forecast will be updated game week
🅿️ Parking
Cotton Bowl parking options:
- • Fair Park lots: Pricing TBA
- • Arrive early (2-3 hours before kickoff)
- • Consider DART public transit
🎡 State Fair of Texas
Your game ticket includes Fair admission!
- • 2026 Fair Dates: Sept 25 - Oct 18
- • Try Fletcher's Corny Dogs
- • Check out the auto show
- • Ride the Texas Star Ferris Wheel
📋 What to Bring
- ✓ Mobile tickets
- ✓ Valid ID
- ✓ Cash for Fair food
- ✓ Sunscreen
- ✓ Team gear
- ✗ Large bags (bag policy restrictions)
Planning Ahead for 2026?
Stay updated with the latest information and ticket details
📅 Last checked May 20, 2026: The date is confirmed for October 10, 2026. Kickoff time, TV network, final rosters, and betting lines remain TBA and will be updated when official information is released.
Looking for the current game? View 2025 Game Guide →