Texas College Football Teams: Your Ultimate Guide
Alright, football fans! Are you ready to dive headfirst into the exciting world of Texas college football? From the roar of the crowd to the thrill of the game-winning touchdown, Texas is a hotbed for some of the most passionate and competitive college football programs in the nation. Whether you're a die-hard alumni, a prospective student, or just a lover of the sport, this guide is your one-stop shop for everything you need to know about college football teams in the Lone Star State. So grab your favorite jersey, settle in, and let's explore the gridiron greatness that Texas has to offer!
NCAA Division I FBS Teams
Let's kick things off with the big guns, the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams. These are the programs that compete at the highest level of college football, battling for conference championships and national glory.
University of Texas Longhorns
The University of Texas Longhorns are arguably the most iconic and recognizable college football team in Texas. Located in Austin, the Longhorns boast a rich history, a massive fan base, and a tradition of excellence. Their home games at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium are legendary, filled with the energy of over 100,000 screaming fans. The Longhorns have won four national championships and numerous conference titles, and they continue to be a major force in the Big 12 Conference. Keep an eye on their recruiting efforts, as they consistently attract some of the top high school talent in the country. When you think of Texas college football, the Longhorns are always at the forefront.
Texas A&M University Aggies
Rivaling the Longhorns in both tradition and passion, the Texas A&M Aggies represent College Station with pride. The 12th Man, the entire student body standing throughout the game, is one of the most unique and inspiring traditions in college football. The Aggies compete in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), known for its tough competition and rabid fan bases. Kyle Field, their home stadium, is one of the largest in the nation, creating an electric atmosphere on game days. The Aggies are known for their strong defense and their commitment to running the football. Their annual rivalry game against the Longhorns, though not always played, is one of the most anticipated matchups in college football.
Baylor University Bears
The Baylor University Bears, located in Waco, have experienced a resurgence in recent years, becoming a consistent contender in the Big 12 Conference. Their success can be attributed to strong coaching, talented players, and a commitment to excellence. McLane Stadium, their state-of-the-art home venue, provides a fantastic game-day experience for fans. The Bears have a history of exciting offenses and playmakers who can score from anywhere on the field. Keep an eye on their progress as they continue to build their program and compete for conference championships. The Baylor Bears have become a team to watch in the ever-competitive landscape of Texas college football.
Texas Christian University Horned Frogs
Representing Fort Worth, the Texas Christian University Horned Frogs have a long and storied football tradition. TCU has seen many changes over the years but are now a constant presence in the Big 12 and a formidable opponent. Amon G. Carter Stadium, their home field, provides an intimate and exciting atmosphere for fans. The Horned Frogs are known for their innovative offenses and their ability to develop quarterbacks. They have a history of upsetting highly ranked opponents and making deep runs in the college football playoffs. The TCU Horned Frogs continue to be a source of pride for Fort Worth and a team to watch in the Big 12 Conference.
Texas Tech University Red Raiders
The Texas Tech University Red Raiders, hailing from Lubbock, are known for their high-flying offenses and their passionate fan base. Jones AT&T Stadium, their home venue, is one of the loudest in the Big 12, creating a challenging environment for visiting teams. The Red Raiders have a history of producing prolific quarterbacks and wide receivers, making their games must-see TV for fans of offensive football. They consistently compete for bowl game appearances and strive to challenge the top teams in the conference. The Texas Tech Red Raiders bring a unique brand of excitement and energy to the Texas college football scene.
University of Houston Cougars
Located in the heart of Houston, the University of Houston Cougars are a rising force in college football. The Cougars are known for their exciting brand of football and their ability to attract top talent from the Houston area. TDECU Stadium, their home field, provides a modern and vibrant game-day experience for fans. The Cougars have a history of upsetting highly ranked opponents and making deep runs in bowl games. With a large alumni base and a growing fanbase, the University of Houston Cougars are poised to make a significant impact on the Texas college football landscape.
University of North Texas Mean Green
The University of North Texas Mean Green, representing Denton, are working to establish themselves as a consistent contender in Conference USA. They play their home games at Apogee Stadium, a modern facility that provides a great atmosphere for fans. The Mean Green are focused on building a strong foundation through recruiting and player development. They strive to compete for conference championships and earn bowl game appearances. The University of North Texas Mean Green are committed to representing Denton with pride and building a successful football program.
Rice University Owls
The Rice University Owls, located in Houston, offer a unique combination of academic excellence and competitive athletics. Their football program emphasizes player development and a commitment to sportsmanship. Rice Stadium, their historic home venue, has hosted major events, including Super Bowl VIII. The Owls compete in Conference USA and strive to achieve success both on and off the field. Rice University Owls are dedicated to upholding the values of their institution while competing at the highest level of college football.
University of Texas at San Antonio Roadrunners
The University of Texas at San Antonio Roadrunners (UTSA) are the newest FBS program in Texas, quickly gaining a following in the Alamo City. The Roadrunners play their home games at the Alamodome, providing a unique indoor game-day experience. They are focused on building a strong program through recruiting and player development. With a growing fanbase and a commitment to excellence, the UTSA Roadrunners are poised to make a name for themselves in the Texas college football landscape.
NCAA Division I FCS Teams
Moving on to the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), we find teams that may not be as widely known as their FBS counterparts, but still offer exciting football and passionate fan bases.
Sam Houston State University Bearkats
The Sam Houston State University Bearkats, located in Huntsville, have been a dominant force in the Southland Conference for many years. They are known for their strong running game and their aggressive defense. Bowers Stadium, their home field, provides a lively atmosphere for fans. The Bearkats have made multiple appearances in the FCS playoffs, and they are consistently ranked among the top teams in the nation. Sam Houston State University Bearkats are a source of pride for Huntsville and a team to watch in the FCS ranks.
Stephen F. Austin State University Lumberjacks
The Stephen F. Austin State University Lumberjacks, representing Nacogdoches, have a long and proud football tradition. They play their home games at Homer Bryce Stadium, creating a spirited atmosphere for fans. The Lumberjacks are focused on building a competitive program through recruiting and player development. They strive to compete for conference championships and earn playoff berths. Stephen F. Austin State University Lumberjacks are committed to representing Nacogdoches with pride and building a successful football program.
Prairie View A&M University Panthers
The Prairie View A&M University Panthers, located in Prairie View, have a rich history and a passionate fan base. They are known for their exciting brand of football and their commitment to academic excellence. Panther Stadium, their home venue, provides a vibrant game-day experience for fans. The Panthers compete in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) and strive to win conference championships and earn national recognition. Prairie View A&M University Panthers are dedicated to upholding the traditions of their institution while competing at the highest level of FCS football.
Incarnate Word Cardinals
The Incarnate Word Cardinals, representing San Antonio, are a rising program in the Southland Conference. Benson Stadium, their home field, provides an intimate and exciting atmosphere for fans. The Cardinals are focused on building a strong foundation through recruiting and player development. They strive to compete for conference championships and earn playoff berths. Incarnate Word Cardinals are committed to representing San Antonio with pride and building a successful football program.
Houston Christian University Huskies
The Houston Christian University Huskies, located in Houston, are committed to developing student-athletes both on and off the field. Husky Stadium, their home field, provides a great atmosphere for fans. The Huskies are focused on building a competitive program through recruiting and player development. They compete in the Southland Conference. Houston Christian University Huskies are dedicated to upholding the values of their institution while competing in Division I football.
Tarleton State University Texans
The Tarleton State University Texans, located in Stephenville, are a rising program in the FCS ranks. Memorial Stadium, their home field, provides a great atmosphere for fans. The Texans are focused on building a strong foundation through recruiting and player development. They now compete in the United Athletic Conference and strive to compete for conference championships and earn playoff berths. Tarleton State University Texans are committed to representing Stephenville with pride and building a successful football program.
Abilene Christian University Wildcats
The Abilene Christian University Wildcats, located in Abilene, are committed to developing student-athletes both on and off the field. Wildcat Stadium, their home field, provides a great atmosphere for fans. The Wildcats are focused on building a competitive program through recruiting and player development. They compete in the United Athletic Conference. Abilene Christian University Wildcats are dedicated to upholding the values of their institution while competing in Division I football.
NCAA Division II Teams
Don't count out the Division II schools, there's some great action here as well.
Angelo State University Rams
Located in San Angelo, the Angelo State University Rams compete in the Lone Star Conference. They have a strong football tradition and a dedicated fan base. The Rams have won multiple conference championships and have made several appearances in the NCAA Division II playoffs.
Midwestern State University Mustangs
The Midwestern State University Mustangs are located in Wichita Falls and also compete in the Lone Star Conference. They have a history of success in football, with multiple conference titles and playoff appearances. The Mustangs are known for their strong offense and their ability to score points.
Texas A&M University–Commerce Lions
The Texas A&M University-Commerce Lions are another member of the Lone Star Conference. Located in Commerce, the Lions have a proud football tradition and a passionate fan base. They have won a national championship in Division II and are consistently a contender in their conference.
West Texas A&M University Buffaloes
The West Texas A&M University Buffaloes represent Canyon and compete in the Lone Star Conference. They have a strong football tradition and are known for their competitive spirit. The Buffaloes have made several appearances in the NCAA Division II playoffs.
NCAA Division III Teams
Austin College Kangaroos
The Austin College Kangaroos are located in Sherman and compete in the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference (SCAC). While Division III programs don't offer athletic scholarships, they often emphasize the well-rounded development of their student-athletes.
Howard Payne University Yellow Jackets
The Howard Payne University Yellow Jackets are located in Brownwood and compete in the American Southwest Conference (ASC). They are committed to providing a quality football experience for their student-athletes.
McMurry University War Hawks
The McMurry University War Hawks represent Abilene and compete in the American Southwest Conference. McMurry has a rich history.
Southwestern University Pirates
The Southwestern University Pirates are located in Georgetown and compete in the Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference. Southwestern emphasizes both academic and athletic achievement.
Texas Lutheran University Bulldogs
The Texas Lutheran University Bulldogs are located in Seguin and compete in the American Southwest Conference. TLU has a tradition of success in football and is committed to providing a positive experience for their student-athletes.
NAIA Teams
Texas College Steers
The Texas College Steers are located in Tyler and compete in the Red River Athletic Conference (RRAC) as of 2024, previously in the Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC). The Steers are focused on building a strong football program and developing their student-athletes.
Wayland Baptist University Pioneers
The Wayland Baptist University Pioneers are located in Plainview and compete in the Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC). Wayland Baptist is committed to providing a quality football experience for its student-athletes.
Conclusion
So there you have it, folks! A comprehensive look at the landscape of college football teams in Texas. Whether you're cheering on a powerhouse FBS program or supporting a smaller school in the lower divisions, there's no shortage of exciting football action to be found in the Lone Star State. From the Friday night lights to the Saturday afternoon showdowns, Texas is a true football paradise. So get out there, support your favorite team, and enjoy the thrill of the game! And remember, everything is bigger and better in Texas, including the college football!
