Turns out playing a first-round CFP game wasn’t so bad. In the later half of the season, the Texas Longhorns’ primary focus was on getting into the SEC Championship Game, winning it, and getting a first-round bye. That first-round bye was like the Holy Grail for a few weeks.

But that didn’t happen. Texas lost to Georgia in the SEC Championship Game. Both Texas losses in 2024 came to the Bulldogs. Instead, Texas had to host a first-round game and learned on Selection Sunday that it would be Clemson.

It turned out great. Sure, the game got a little exciting when the Tigers cut Texas’ lead with a touchdown. But after the game, when the win was certain, Texas coach Steve Sarkisian raved about the atmosphere.

“I mean, it’s amazing. You know, this is great for college football. I watched the other games last night and earlier today, and the fact that we have this environment today, I think it’s great for college football.” – Steve Sarkisian

Just a few years ago, you wouldn’t have thought that schools would ever make it host a playoff game. Texas fans got another Bevo Walk. The seniors received a bonus game and were able to enjoy 101,150 DRK fans. This gave Matthew McConaughey another chance to grab the microphone and walk around in his leather jacket that he stole from a photo shoot over a decade ago. (By the way, there are plenty of replicas online that you can buy if you’re looking for a last minute Christmas present).

“What a college football environment it was. From the moment we arrived on the buses, our Bevo walk, you could feel the energy. The crowd was huge. It was a great atmosphere. I think college football got that right. “ – Steve Sarkisian

Texas QB Quinn Ewers echoed that sentiment. The Texas Football social team caught up with the junior after the game, likely his last at DKR.

“Man, what an opportunity, man. Just coming out here and playing in front of all these great fans. I couldn’t be more excited for this program and the direction it’s going, man. This is where we are supposed to be. Hook ’em horns, baby. -Quinn Ewers

This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Home playoff atmosphere sparks excitement, Sark enthuses: “College football got this right.”