AI-generated illustration; not a photograph of the reported event.
- calendar_today October 9, 2026
OU Fans Start Celebrations on Rails
As the highly anticipated Red River Rivalry approaches, enthusiastic Oklahoma Sooners supporters gathered early in Oklahoma City’s Santa Fe Depot for a special pre-game journey. With less than 24 hours to go until the faceoff, these devoted fans chose to ride Amtrak’s Big Game Train, making the trip an event in itself.
Boarding the Big Game Train
Friday morning saw a sea of Crimson and Cream as OU fans prepared to board the daily Heartland Flyer. The excitement was palpable as chants of “Boomer! Sooner!” and playful jabs at rivals filled the depot. The Amtrak special service, enhanced for the occasion, promised an enjoyable and streamlined route to the Red River Rivalry.
Special Amtrak Features for Game Day
This year’s train, dubbed the Big Game Train, wasn’t just the usual Heartland Flyer running from Oklahoma City to Fort Worth. Special amenities, including extra cars like the Sightseer Lounge, offered passengers scenic views and more space to socialize. The addition of Amtrak’s Superliner meant travelers could enjoy comfortable seating and in-transit perks, helping many fans avoid the hassles of road traffic, parking, and congestion.
“It’s the only way I go to Dallas anymore, take the train,” said loyal Sooner fan David Haggard. “You just sit back, and they get you there, and you just kick back and chill. And if you want a cocktail, you could have a cocktail or snacks, whatever.”
Sooners and Longhorns Side by Side
Though the Big Game Train was dominated by Oklahoma supporters, a hint of burnt orange signaled the presence of Texas Longhorns fans as well. Sierra Garcia and Trevor Chandler were two such fans returning to the Lone Star State. “It was crazy seeing the amount of OU fans. I didn’t think there would be so many,” said Garcia. Despite the rivalry, both sets of fans shared the ride, united in their anticipation for one of college football’s most storied matchups.
The Final Destination: Cotton Bowl in Dallas
The quick trip from OKC to Dallas on Amtrak’s Big Game Train deposited fans closer to the heart of the Red River Rivalry at the Cotton Bowl. Awaiting them: a day filled with fried food, camaraderie, and classic football rivalry. Many on board expressed hopes for a significant Sooners victory and relished the unique experience of traveling together to the big game.
Larry Thompson, a dedicated OU supporter, summed up the anticipation: “This game is crazy. When someone’s #1, usually the other one wins. It happens on both sides. It’s our turn.”
Looking Forward to the Red River Rivalry
With excitement building, fans arrived in Dallas prepared for a day of memorable college football and classic rivalry. Whether supporting the Oklahoma Sooners or the Texas Longhorns, those aboard the Big Game Train shared a unique and festive journey to one of the sport’s most iconic showdowns.
Source: kfor.com.
