Texas ‘Too Physical’ for the Big 12?: Longhorns, Sooners Exchange Words
Week 7 might showcase some of the best matchups we’ve seen all season. The Red River Rivalry is no exception. Texas and Oklahoma will meet in Dallas for the 115th edition of the series, battling it out for the top of the Big 12. Such a storied rivalry is bound to bring about some smack talk… and it has done just that.
This rivalry goes way back, making the hatred and grit between the teams even more immense. As we approach Saturday, the players, coaches, and fans have all had some things to say. On Monday, Sooners Head Coach Lincoln Riley, when asked about throwing the “horns down” gesture, replied,
Our players won’t do it. Just like the Big 12 [Championship] Game.
There’s some irony to this quote, noting that the picture below was taken at the 2018 Big 12 Championship Game:
But I’m sure Coach Riley will have a better hold on his players this time around, as the gesture would result in an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty. Standout Sooner QB Jalen Hurts has stirred up some conversation this week, stating that he feels prepared for the game due to his experience in the Iron Bowl and SEC Championship Game, as well as his playoff experience. Texas players were offended by the statement, including Safety BJ Foster, who said,
It’s very different. This is Texas. Texas is different. Football is more physical at Texas. The Red River Showdown is way better [than the Iron Bowl].
Foster continued to take shots directed at Hurts, saying that he’ll “have to slide or it’s not gonna be good for him”. Longhorn LB Joseph Ossai followed up with saying, “Maybe we’re too physical for the Big 12”.
Oklahoma opens up as an 11 point favorite heading into the weekend.
The game will be a noon EST kickoff on FOX.
