Everything is bigger in Texas—and that includes the price tag for a seat at one of college football’s most storied rivalries. Last Saturday, the much-anticipated matchup between the University of Texas and Texas A&M shattered records, becoming the most expensive regular-season football game in history. Fans packed Kyle Field in College Station, a venue known for its raucous atmosphere and a capacity of over 100,000, to witness the return of the Lone Star rivalry.
The demand to attend this game wasn’t just high—it was astronomical. Reports revealed the average ticket price surpassed $1,000, with even nosebleed seats fetching over $850. TickPick, a popular ticket marketplace, confirmed the stunning figures, tweeting:
> “🚨 BREAKING 🚨 Texas A&M vs. Texas this Saturday is the most expensive regular-season football ticket (NFL and CFB) on record. Current get-in: $741. Average Purchase Price: $1,079.”
Joe Pompliano, a sports and business analyst, weighed in on the frenzy, calling it “pure insanity.” He pointed out that this wasn’t a case of limited supply since Kyle Field is one of the largest stadiums in America. Instead, it reflected the unmatched passion of Texas football fans and the rivalry’s historic significance.
The University of Texas, ranked second in the nation, emerged victorious with a 17-7 win, further cementing its dominance this season. For Longhorn fans, the win was worth every penny of the sky-high ticket prices, as it strengthened their team’s campaign for a potential national championship.
Texas A&M head coach Mike Elko addressed the ticket prices before the game, acknowledging their inevitability given the stakes and the history:
> “When I got hired, I knew this was going to be a really tough ticket. As the year has gone on, with the seasons both teams have had, it felt like it would only get tougher. Now, game day, prime time, and with a shot at Atlanta, the demand matches the hype.”
Elko also praised the loyalty of Aggie fans, adding:
> “I know our 12th Man will show up. They’ll hold onto those tickets regardless of what anybody asks for.”
Some critics took issue with third-party ticket platforms, blaming them for driving up costs. One commenter noted, “In the USA, venues/official websites are allowed to resell tickets at inflated prices. In Europe, ticket prices are fixed, avoiding this type of ‘ticket inflation.’”
While scalpers and secondary markets undoubtedly played a role, the sheer fervor for this rivalry likely made price increases inevitable.
This game wasn’t just a contest—it was a cultural event, a celebration of Texas pride, and a reminder of the unparalleled passion that fuels college football in the Lone Star State. For fans of both programs, the rivalry represents more than just a game. It’s a tradition, a legacy, and a reason to stand united—or divided—under the Texas sky.
In the end, Texas may have claimed the win on the field, but it’s the fans who filled Kyle Field, regardless of cost, who truly embody the heart and soul of college football.
