The Golden Hat Trophy
College Football's Most Unique Trophy Since 1941
A 10-gallon bronze hat painted gold. Simple, iconic, and dripping with Texas swagger. The Golden Hat represents one of college football's fiercest rivalries.
History of the Golden Hat
Origins (1941)
The Golden Hat Trophy was created in 1941 by the Dallas-based State Fair of Texas and the Associated Students of the University of Texas. The trophy was designed to symbolize the rivalry between the two schools and the spirit of Texas.
The hat is a classic 10-gallon cowboy hat made of bronze and plated in gold. It sits on a wooden base and has been passed between the two schools for over 80 years.
Trophy Specifications
- • Material: Bronze, gold-plated
- • Style: 10-gallon cowboy hat
- • Weight: Approximately 40 pounds
- • Height: ~20 inches with base
- • Base: Wooden pedestal
Trophy Facts
- • First Year: 1941 (originally Bronze Hat, became Golden Hat in 1970s)
- • Creator: State Fair of Texas
- • Current Holder: Texas (as of 2024)
- • Total Times Won:
Texas: 65 | Oklahoma: 51 | Ties: 5
Post-Game Trophy Ceremony
The Winning Moment
After the final whistle, the Golden Hat is brought onto the field at midfield. The winning team gathers around as their coach or a captain hoists the trophy high above their head.
Players take turns wearing the hat, taking photos, and celebrating with it. The trophy then travels back to the winning campus where it's displayed in the athletic facilities until the next year's game.
When Texas Wins
- • Trophy displayed at Moncrief-Neuhaus Athletic Complex
- • Players parade it around Texas locker room
- • Team photos with trophy at Cotton Bowl
- • "Hook 'em Horns" photos with the hat
When Oklahoma Wins
- • Trophy displayed at Oklahoma Athletic Center
- • Sooner Schooner circles field with trophy
- • Team photos at midfield in Dallas
- • "Boomer Sooner" celebration with hat
Memorable Trophy Moments
Baker Mayfield's Celebrations (2017)
While not against Texas, Oklahoma quarterback Baker Mayfield's controversial flag planting after the 2017 Ohio State victory became one of the most discussed moments of his college career. His bold celebrations and competitive spirit defined his time at Oklahoma.
Mayfield's passionate style of play and celebrations became part of his legacy, influencing a new generation of college football players.
Colt McCoy's 2008 Victory
After upsetting #1 Oklahoma, Texas quarterback Colt McCoy hoisted the Golden Hat and declared "We just beat the No. 1 team in the country!" The image became iconic.
The 2022 Shutout Celebration
After Texas's historic 49-0 shutout win in 2022, the entire Texas team took turns wearing the Golden Hat on the field. It was the first shutout in the rivalry since 1965—a 57-year drought marking one of the most dominant performances in Red River Rivalry history.
The Trophy's Annual Journey
Game Week
The trophy is brought to Dallas and kept secure until after the game.
Post-Game Ceremony
Presented to the winning team on the field immediately after the game.
Campus Return
Trophy returns to winning school's campus and is displayed prominently in athletic facilities.
Year-Long Display
Shown to recruits, displayed at events, and serves as motivation for next year's team.
Repeat
The cycle begins again the following October.
Fun Facts About the Golden Hat
Actual Size
Despite being called a "10-gallon hat," the Golden Hat actually holds about 3/4 gallon. The name refers to the style, not capacity.
Current Series
Texas leads the all-time series 65-51-5, meaning the Golden Hat has spent more time in Austin than Norman.
Longest Possession
Texas holds the record with two 8-game win streaks (1940-1947 and 1958-1965), the longest continuous possession of the Golden Hat by either school.
Maintenance
The trophy is re-plated in gold periodically to maintain its shine after decades of handling and celebration.
"The Golden Hat is what it's all about."
- Every player who's ever competed in this rivalry
See the Golden Hat Presented in 2025
Be there when the next chapter is written