With the Longhorns and Sooners set to renew their rivalry, Jamaal Charles reflects on his experience
On Saturday afternoon, the Texas Longhorns and Oklahoma Sooners will write the next chapter in the Red River Rivalry. Over the years, one of college football's best rivalries has featured stars who have gone on to rewrite the NFL record books. That includes a former Longhorns running back, Jamaal Charles, who left behind an unforgettable legacy in Austin.
"Playing in the Red River shootout was awesome, man," Charles said. "After being involved in it and playing in it, I wish I could play in it every year now. I go to the game every year, and every time I go down the tunnel, I get chills. It's one of the best college traditions I was able to experience."
During his college career, Charles played in the Red River Rivalry game three times. With the Texas native leading the way out of the backfield, the Longhorns went 2-1. While he always managed to shine during one of the biggest games, he was a human highlight reel regardless of the opponent.
In three years as a Longhorn, Charles recorded 3,338 rushing yards in 28 games. He also found the end zone 36 times on the ground. Although he has plenty of moments to choose from, the Red River games are the ones he remembers the most.
Another chapter in the Red River Rivalry will be written tomorrow. I was able to talk with former Longhorns and Chiefs star Jamaal Charles about what the game means to him. pic.twitter.com/a7igSOmCNZ
— Jamie Gatlin (@JamieGatlin17) October 10, 2025
"I remember other games, but this is the top one that comes to mind," Charles said. "This game really makes a lot of people. If you play in this game and ball out, people will really remember you because the whole world is watching."
As Charles prepares to represent the Longhorns this weekend, he will also be partnering with Bush's Baked Beans. It is an opportunity that Charles is excited to be part of. He will also get to rock custom boots while cheering on his alma mater.
"I got a great opportunity to rep Bush this year," Charles said. "I am super excited that my team was able to work something out with Bush. They have some custom boots for me, and I'm excited to try something new. They also have a can opener on the side, which I was super excited about."
After putting together an unforgettable career at Texas, Charles took his talents to the NFL, where he became one of the best players in the league. In ten seasons with the Chiefs, Broncos, and Jaguars, the Port Arthur native recorded 7,563 rushing yards. He also hauled in 310 receptions for 2,593 yards. Due to his performance, Charles has been nominated for the NFL Hall of Fame, which he does not take for granted.
"It was really pretty cool," Charles said. "That's why I play the game of football, to be named one of the best at what I do. I worked hard at practice, I worked my tail off, and it showed in the games. If I get in there, it would be amazing to be up there among the best."
For Charles this weekend, the focus will be on cheering on the Longhorns to a win and embracing an atmosphere he has come to love, which only comes around once a year.
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This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: EXCLUSIVE: Former Longhorn Jamaal Charles on meaning of Texas-OU
Category: General Sports
