2005 Big 12 Football Championship

This year's Big 12 Championship is a rematch, but that does not make the outcome as predictable as you might think. Maybe it will be a replay of the game in Austin last October, in which the Texas Longhorns beat the Colorado Buffaloes 42-17. With Texas ranked #2 in the nation pretty much all season long, and with the Buffs needing a loss by Iowa State at Kansas to boost them into contention that sounds like a safe bet.

But Longhorn fans who think they can look past this game to the Rose Bowl and a chance at the national title have very short memories. In 2001, everybody expected Texas to stampede Gary Barnett's Buffaloes (as they had in Austin, by a score of 41-7) and head off to Pasadena. Except Colorado, who kept intercepting the ball and who came away victorious, 39-37.

Colorado U has the edge in Big 12 Championship experience, having won the North Division four out of the last five years, including last year. The University of Texas has represented the South twice under Coach Mack Brown, but without picking up the Big 12 title. Texas, on the other hand, has the momentum of a winning streak stretching back to a previous season, plus Heisman Trophy hopeful Vince Young at quarterback.

What will be the deciding factor? Maybe it will be you and your friends, wearing Colorado black and gold or Texas burnt orange and cheering for your team. Get your tickets to be there in Reliant Stadium and make it happen!