UT vs. Colorado State: A Tailgate to Remember – August 31, 2024
As the Longhorns faced off against the Colorado State Rams on Saturday, August 31st, 2024, fans knew they were in for a thrilling game, and the atmosphere outside Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium didn’t disappoint. The UT tailgating scene is legendary, and this game took it to another level. Here’s a recap of the day’s highlights—from the grill to the gridiron, with a deep dive into the game’s key stats.
The Tailgate Scene: Where Tradition Meets Texas Spirit
Before the game even kicked off, the smell of sizzling barbecue and the sounds of country music filled the air. Longhorn fans showed up in droves, decked out in burnt orange, ready to support their team. Tents lined the parking lots, each with their own unique setup, but all shared the same goal: celebrating UT football in true Texas style.
From custom-built smokers to hand-painted cornhole boards, every detail was meticulously planned. Fans grilled up everything from brisket and ribs to the classic Texas hot link. For those looking to cool down, craft beers and signature cocktails like the Texas Mule were the drinks of choice.
Game Day Eats: A Feast Fit for a Longhorn
Tailgating at a UT game isn’t complete without a spread that could feed an army. Some standout dishes included:
- Brisket Nachos: A Texas twist on a game day favorite, with slow-cooked brisket, melted cheese, jalapeños, and a drizzle of BBQ sauce.
- Frito Pie: A Lone Star State staple, with layers of Fritos, chili, cheese, and onions.
- Smoked Sausage Sliders: Bite-sized, packed with flavor, and easy to eat while cheering on the team.
Dessert wasn’t overlooked either, with many tailgaters indulging in peach cobbler or banana pudding—both Texas favorites.
The Game: Longhorns Dominate the Rams
As the tailgating wound down, fans made their way into the stadium, buzzing with anticipation. The matchup against Colorado State was more than just a non-conference game—it was a statement.
Key Stats Breakdown:
- Final Score: UT 52, Colorado State 0
- Total Yards: UT had 554 total yards (330 passing and 224 rushing), while Colorado State managed only 194 total yards.
- Passing Yards: UT’s quarterback threw for 330 yards, completing 26 of 30 attempts, with 4 touchdowns and no interceptions. Colorado State’s QB managed just 110 passing yards, completing 15 of 35 attempts, with 2 interceptions.
- Rushing Yards: UT recorded 224 rushing yards on 42 carries, led by a standout performance from their lead rusher who gained 135 yards on 18 carries. Colorado State was limited to 84 rushing yards on 30 attempts.
- Third-Down Efficiency: UT converted 10 of 13 third-down attempts, while Colorado State converted only 2 of 12.
- Time of Possession: The Longhorns dominated possession, holding the ball for 36 minutes compared to the Rams’ 24 minutes.
From the first snap, UT’s defense was relentless, sacking the Rams’ quarterback 5 times and forcing 3 turnovers, including a crucial fumble recovery in the second quarter that set up another Longhorn touchdown.
On offense, the Longhorns showcased their versatility. The running backs pounded the ball up the middle, while the receivers made key catches downfield. The star of the show was the Longhorns’ quarterback, who kept the defense on their heels with a mix of quick passes and deep shots.
Player Highlights:
- Quarterback: UT’s QB had an exceptional game with 330 passing yards, 4 touchdowns, and a passer rating of 165.2.
- Lead Receiver: The lead receiver had 9 catches for 140 yards and 2 touchdowns, including a spectacular 50-yard TD reception.
- Defensive Standout: A UT linebacker was a defensive force, recording 11 tackles, 3 sacks, and a forced fumble.
As the final whistle blew, the scoreboard told the story: UT came out on top with a decisive victory, leaving no doubt that they are a force to be reckoned with this season.
Post-Game: Celebrating the Win
After the game, the celebration continued as fans returned to their tailgates to relive the game’s best moments. The victory over Colorado State was more than just a win—it was a reminder of what makes UT football special. The camaraderie, the traditions, and the sheer joy of being part of the Longhorns community are what keep fans coming back year after year.
For those who couldn’t make it to the game, the tailgating TV show captured all the action, bringing the sights, sounds, and flavors of UT tailgating straight to their screens. Whether you’re grilling in your backyard or cheering from the stands, one thing is clear: Longhorns football is back, and it’s better than ever.
Final Thoughts
The UT vs. Colorado State game on August 31, 2024, was a showcase of everything that makes college football—and tailgating—so special. The food, the fans, and the football all came together for a day that Longhorns will be talking about for a long time. With more games on the horizon, it’s safe to say that the tailgating fun is just getting started. Hook ’em, Horns!