Over the course of more than a century, the Texas-Texas A&M rivalry has been a spectacle of great teams, players, and games. From close calls to blowouts, this rivalry has kept fans on the edge of their seats. With both teams now in the Southeastern Conference and the grudge rekindled after a 12-year breakup, we can expect many more epic showdowns to come. And Saturday night's reunion provides yet another opportunity for an instant classic.

Uncover the Epic Battles of the Texas-Texas A&M Rivalry

1920: The Birth of a Rivalry

In 1920, the Texas-Texas A&M rivalry took center stage. Two powerhouse teams collided in front of an estimated crowd of 20,000, making it the largest to watch a game in state history at that time. Texas set up the winning touchdown with a reverse pass from Bill Berry to Tom Dennis. This play became a turning point as it led to the first points the Aggies had surrendered in two years. Francis Dominguez then ran in for the touchdown, solidifying Texas' victory.This game laid the foundation for what the rivalry would become, with both teams vying for supremacy on the football field. It was a moment that would be remembered for years to come, as it marked the beginning of a fierce competition between these two Texas institutions.

1956: A Changing of the Guard

Texas had one of its worst teams in school history, while Texas A&M had one of their greatest players. John David Crow, who would go on to win the Heisman Trophy in 1957, scored a touchdown that helped finish off the Longhorns and their coach, Ed Price. Price had already announced his resignation, adding an extra layer of drama to the game.The following year, Darrell Royal took over Texas and led the Longhorns to 17 consecutive wins in their next 18 meetings with Texas A&M. This marked a significant shift in the balance of power between the two teams and set the stage for future battles.

1963: A Controversial Victory

Undefeated Texas won its first national championship that season, but the game at muddy Kyle Field was a struggle. Six days after President Kennedy was assassinated, the field was in poor condition. Texas A&M President Earl Rudder apologized for the field's state, but it was too late as an apparent Aggies interception was ruled out of bounds.In the final two minutes, Texas drove 80 yards for Duke Carlisle's winning touchdown, securing the victory. This game was not only a battle on the field but also a reflection of the emotions and events surrounding the nation at that time.

1998: Ricky Williams' Heisman Moment

Ricky Williams, the future Heisman Trophy winner, had a standout game in 1998. He wrapped up the Heisman Trophy and the NCAA career rushing record with his 60-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. He finished the day with 259 yards, showcasing his exceptional running ability.The Aggies, who had already clinched the Big 12 South championship, fought back from a 23-7 deficit to take the lead. But Texas held on to win it on Kris Stockton's field goal, adding another chapter to the rivalry.

1999: Remembering the Tragedy

Eight days after the tragic collapse of Texas A&M's traditional pregame bonfire that killed 12 people and injured dozens more, the teams finally took the field. The Aggies players wore commemorative bonfire patches on their helmets as a sign of remembrance.Texas led 16-6 before A&M rallied and won on Randy McCown's touchdown pass to Matt Bumgardner with 5 minutes left. This game was a testament to the resilience of both teams and the importance of coming together in the face of adversity.

2011: The End of an Era

Texas A&M had already announced its departure from the Big 12 to join the SEC, adding an extra layer of tension to the game. The programs blamed each other for the pending breakup that would tear apart a century of tradition.In the final two minutes, Texas A&M took a 25-24 lead. But Texas quarterback Case McCoy, who had been benched earlier in the season, scrambled 25 yards to set up Justin Tucker's winning field goal as time expired. This victory was a bittersweet moment for both teams, as it marked the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter in the rivalry.Get poll alerts and updates on the AP Top 25 throughout the season. Sign up here. AP college football: https://apnews.com/hub/ap-top-25-college-football-poll and https://apnews.com/hub/college-football