The Texas Fight Pep Rally is a time-honored tradition that captures the spirit, energy, and passion of Longhorns fans ahead of one of the biggest events on their football calendar: the Red River Rivalry against Oklahoma. This iconic matchup, which pits the Texas Longhorns against the Oklahoma Sooners at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, is more than just a game—it’s a spectacle steeped in tradition and fierce competition. The pep rally leading up to the event serves as a chance for fans, students, and alumni to come together in a display of school pride and enthusiasm. This year’s rally did not disappoint, providing some unforgettable moments and snapshots that capture the essence of what makes this rivalry so special.
Here’s a look at some of the best photos from the Texas Fight Pep Rally that are sure to interest any fan of college football and, more importantly, the spirit of the Longhorns.
One of the most striking images from the rally is the overwhelming sea of burnt orange, the signature color of the University of Texas. Hundreds of students, alumni, and fans packed into the rally grounds, all clad in various shades of burnt orange and white, waving Longhorns flags and banners. The sheer volume of fans wearing their school colors created a vibrant, electric atmosphere. This powerful visual serves as a reminder of the deep connection and sense of pride that the Longhorn community has for their football team.
The panoramic shots of the crowd capture the scale of support behind the team, showing just how seriously the Longhorns faithful take their rivalry with Oklahoma. The fans’ energy and enthusiasm were palpable, setting the stage for the intensity that would follow on the field
Of course, no Texas pep rally would be complete without countless fans throwing up the famous “Hook ‘Em Horns” hand sign. This rally was no different, with fans—young and old—raising their hands high, showing their unwavering support for the Longhorns. One of the standout pictures from the rally shows a group of students, all in Texas gear, forming a perfect line with their “Hook ‘Em” hand signs held high against a backdrop of the setting sun.
This image perfectly encapsulates the pride and camaraderie that runs through the University of Texas community. It’s a simple gesture, but it symbolizes the unity of Longhorn fans as they come together to cheer on their team ahead of one of the biggest games of the year.
The University of Texas Longhorn Band, known as the “Showband of the Southwest,” is a critical part of the pep rally’s energy. Their brass and drum sounds echo through the crowd, filling the air with classic tunes like “Texas Fight” and “The Eyes of Texas.” This year, the band put on a spectacular performance, complete with intricate formations and powerful music that stirred the crowd into a frenzy.
Photos of the band in full uniform, marching in sync and playing their hearts out, are among the highlights of this year’s rally. These images capture the band’s pride in representing the university and the essential role they play in building the excitement for the Red River Rivalry.
Cheerleaders are an essential part of any pep rally, and Texas’ squad brought their A-game to this event. With stunts, flips, and chants that got the crowd fired up, they helped set the tone for a spirited evening. Photos capturing the cheerleaders mid-air during a stunt, with the crowd in the background, showcase their athleticism and enthusiasm.
In addition to the cheerleaders, Smokey the Cannon—a beloved tradition at Texas games—made its appearance at the rally. The cannon, fired after every Longhorns score, was fired off during the rally to the delight of fans. Photos of Smokey blasting smoke into the air amidst a cheering crowd are a perfect representation of the fiery spirit that the rally aims to evoke.
One of the highlights of the Texas Fight Pep Rally was the appearance of Texas football legends who came to pump up the crowd and share their stories from past Red River Rivalries. Photos of these icons standing on stage, sharing their wisdom with current players and fans, provide a sense of the history and legacy behind this storied matchup. Their presence was a reminder of the long-standing traditions that define the Texas vs. Oklahoma rivalry, adding an extra layer of nostalgia and pride to the event.
The images of these former players standing shoulder-to-shoulder with current stars of the team capture a passing of the torch, from one generation of Longhorn greats to the next. It was a moment that resonated deeply with the fans, who see themselves as part of this rich history.
No pep rally is complete without the Texas football team itself, and this year’s rally offered a chance for fans to hear directly from the players and coaches who will be taking the field against Oklahoma. Images of the team standing together, flanked by fans and coaches, highlight the unity and focus that they will bring into the game.
Photos showing head coach Steve Sarkisian addressing the crowd, alongside star players like Quinn Ewers, capture the confidence and determination that the Longhorns are taking into the rivalry game. The expressions on the faces of the players—smiling, focused, and ready—tell the story of a team that is hungry to claim victory over their rivals.
The Texas Fight Pep Rally ahead of the Red River Rivalry is a celebration of tradition, pride, and fierce competition. This year’s event delivered on all fronts, with fans, band, cheerleaders, and players coming together to create an unforgettable atmosphere. The best photos from the rally capture the spirit of Longhorns fans and their unwavering support for the team, offering a visual testament to what makes this rivalry so special.
As the Longhorns prepare to face the Sooners on the field, these images serve as a reminder of the community that stands behind them, ready to cheer them on to victory. The rally was more than just a buildup to the game—it was a celebration of what it means to be part of the Longhorns family, united in the pursuit of one common goal: defeating Oklahoma.