DEVASTATING: Taurean York Previews Renewed Brutal Texas A&M Rivalry vs. Longhorns
The anticipation is palpable for the Texas A&M Aggies as they look forward to their final regular-season matchup against the Texas Longhorns at Kyle Field. Although the Aggies face numerous challenging games before this much-awaited clash, the rivalry with Texas looms large in the minds of players and fans alike.
For Texas A&M, the rivalry with Texas is deeply ingrained, as evident in the traditions and sentiments of the Aggie community. The Aggie War Hymn itself emphasizes an anti-Texas Longhorn sentiment. Players, such as linebacker Taurean York, have expressed how personal this rivalry is to them. York highlighted this by saying, “I don’t talk to anybody from Texas. It’s that personal to me.”
This season marks the first time in 13 years that Texas A&M and Texas will face each other. The last encounter ended in a narrow 27-25 victory for Texas, a game remembered for its dramatic finish. Since then, Texas A&M moved to the SEC, while Texas remained in the Big 12, savoring their last victory in the rivalry. Now, Texas A&M is eager to reclaim bragging rights on their home turf.
Texas A&M LB Taurean York says he doesn’t talk to anyone from #Texas.
“It’s personal.” pic.twitter.com/NvN3AbpovY
— CJ Vogel (@CJVogel_OTF) July 18, 2024
The atmosphere at Kyle Field is expected to be electric. Known for its intense environment, Texas A&M’s home stadium is considered one of the toughest places to play in college football. York is confident that the 12th Man will create a daunting atmosphere for the Longhorns. “I truly do feel like it’s the hardest place to play in college football. The 12th Man is real. The atmosphere is there. We’re excited for that game. I know Kyle Field is going to be rocking when that day comes.”
Before the showdown with Texas, the Aggies have a rigorous schedule to navigate, including a challenging opener against Notre Dame, a trip to Florida, and a home game against a strong Missouri Tigers team. Their annual Southwest Classic against the Arkansas Razorbacks is another significant hurdle. Despite these tests, the focus on the rivalry game with Texas remains strong.
New head coach Mike Elko understands the significance of the Texas rivalry, having previously coached at Texas A&M. He acknowledged its importance, saying, “In my four years at Texas A&M, even though we never played … it still was the single most important thing to Texas A&M. Obviously, that’s something that we take seriously. That’s a rivalry that means an awful lot to our fan base, to the program, the history of the rivalry, and the tradition.”
Elko emphasized the broader significance of the rivalry, calling it “great for the state — great for college football.” He added, “When you have two brands like that that are that close to each other, they should play. They should play meaningful games. … I’m sure it will be an unbelievable atmosphere.”
Players like Trey Zuhn III share the excitement and anticipation. Zuhn praised the support of the 12th Man and expressed his eagerness to step onto the field, saying, “The 12th Man, they’re the best fans out there. They always come, rain or shine. Walking on to that field, it never gets old. … I just can’t wait to get back.”
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on the Aggies and their journey towards the much-anticipated clash with the Longhorns, a game that promises to be a spectacle and a testament to one of college football’s storied rivalries.