The stage is set for one of college football’s most heated rivalries as the Oklahoma Sooners prepare to square off against the Texas Longhorns in this year’s pivotal Big 12 clash. But all eyes are on one man: Dillon Gabriel. The seasoned quarterback has become the heart of the Sooners’ resurgence and now stands on the brink of delivering what could be the biggest upset of the season.
A Rivalry Renewed
The Red River Rivalry never lacks drama, but 2025’s edition carries higher stakes. Texas, coming into the matchup as the favorites with an undefeated record and eyes on the College Football Playoff, faces a fired-up Oklahoma squad eager to reclaim its dominance. Last season’s blowout loss to the Longhorns is still fresh in the memory of Sooners fans and players alike — especially Gabriel, who missed that game due to injury.
Now, fully healthy and in peak form, Gabriel is ready to write his own legacy.
Gabriel’s Redemption Arc
After transferring to Oklahoma from UCF, Dillon Gabriel faced skepticism about his ability to lead a Power Five program. But in his second full season under center, he’s silenced critics with commanding performances, efficient passing, and unshakable leadership. Through the first few weeks of the season, Gabriel has thrown for over 1,200 yards and 12 touchdowns, with only a single interception — numbers that have placed him squarely in the Heisman Trophy conversation.
But for Gabriel, Saturday isn’t about stats. It’s about respect.
“This is the game we circle every year. We know what it means. I didn’t get the chance to play in this one last year, and I’ve been waiting for it ever since,” Gabriel told reporters earlier this week. “We’re not just here to compete — we’re here to win.”
Sooners Gaining Momentum
Head Coach Brent Venables’ defense has also taken a major step forward this season, giving Oklahoma a more balanced attack than they’ve had in years. With a much-improved pass rush and a secondary that’s forced turnovers in every game so far, the Sooners are no longer relying solely on their offense to win shootouts. That’s a promising sign as they prepare to face a Texas team loaded with NFL talent, particularly at quarterback and wide receiver.
A True Test Awaits
Texas, led by quarterback Arch Manning, enters the game ranked No. 3 in the nation and hasn’t lost at home since 2023. But rivalry games have a way of ignoring rankings, and with Gabriel’s arm and a chip on the team’s collective shoulder, Oklahoma looks poised to challenge the Longhorns like never before.
What’s at Stake
Beyond bragging rights, the outcome of Saturday’s game could determine the trajectory of the Big 12 title race, and even shake up the national playoff picture. An Oklahoma victory would vault the Sooners into playoff contention and place Dillon Gabriel among the elite quarterbacks in the nation — something many doubted he could achieve after his transfer.
Kickoff is set for 12:00 PM ET this Saturday at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, TX. Expect fireworks, grit, and the kind of college football chaos that only the Red River Rivalry can deliver.
And at the center of it all? Dillon Gabriel — ready to prove the doubters wrong.
