History of Texas Football Championships: How Many National Titles Have the Longhorns Won?
The Texas Longhorns football program is one of the most iconic and successful in college football history, with a rich tradition of championships, legendary players, and unforgettable moments. The Longhorns, representing the University of Texas in Austin, have achieved immense success over the years, and their football team is consistently regarded as one of the top programs in the sport.
At the heart of this storied history is the question: How many national titles have the Longhorns won?
The answer is four. The Texas Longhorns have claimed four national championships in their history, with their victories spanning from the 1960s to the 2000s. Let’s take a closer look at the national championship wins and the remarkable teams that helped Texas achieve this elite status in college football.
1. 1963 National Championship
The Texas Longhorns’ first national title came in 1963, under legendary head coach Darrell K. Royal. Royal, who would become one of the most respected coaches in college football history, led the Longhorns to an undefeated season, finishing the year with a perfect 11-0 record. Texas dominated the competition, finishing the season ranked No. 1 in the AP Poll.
The Longhorns’ victory in the Cotton Bowl against Syracuse sealed their place as the top team in the country. The 1963 Texas defense was a standout, giving up just 10 points in their last five games of the season. Royal’s use of the option offense and strong defensive play allowed the Longhorns to control the tempo of games, leading them to their first-ever national championship.
This championship marked the beginning of Texas’ rise to national prominence and set the stage for future success.
2. 1969 National Championship
In 1969, the Texas Longhorns earned their second national championship under coach Darrell K. Royal. That season is often regarded as one of the greatest in Texas football history, and it culminated in a stunning victory over the Arkansas Razorbacks in a regular-season showdown for the No. 1 ranking.
With both teams unbeaten and ranked in the top two, the Texas-Arkansas game on December 6, 1969, was the de facto national championship game. The Longhorns triumphed 15-14, with James Street leading the team with a clutch performance, including a touchdown run that helped seal the victory. The Longhorns’ defensive performance, including a pivotal stop on Arkansas’ final drive, was crucial in the win.
Texas then defeated Notre Dame in the Cotton Bowl to claim their second national title in program history. This victory was a true testament to the resilience of the team and established Texas as a dominant force in college football during the 1960s.
3. 2005 National Championship
After a long drought of 36 years, the Texas Longhorns returned to the top of college football with a national championship in 2005, under head coach Mack Brown. The 2005 season is widely regarded as one of the best in college football history, highlighted by a thrilling Rose Bowl victory over the USC Trojans in the BCS National Championship Game.
Texas entered the game with an undefeated 12-0 record and faced off against USC, a team led by future NFL stars Reggie Bush and Matt Leinart. The game was an instant classic, featuring explosive offense from both teams and dramatic shifts in momentum. Texas quarterback Vince Young delivered a legendary performance, accounting for over 400 yards of total offense and scoring the game-winning touchdown with less than a minute left. His 8-yard run to the end zone in the final moments sealed the 41-38 victory and gave Texas their third national championship.
Vince Young’s heroics in the 2005 Rose Bowl are etched into the history of Texas football and are considered one of the greatest individual performances in college football history. His leadership and playmaking ability made him a college football icon and propelled Texas back to the pinnacle of the sport.
4. 2009 National Championship Appearance
While Texas did not win their fourth title in 2009, they did reach the BCS National Championship Game, securing a place in the title game with an undefeated season and a Big 12 Championship win. The Longhorns faced the Alabama Crimson Tide, led by coach Nick Saban and quarterback Greg McElroy. Texas entered the game with a 13-0 record, but they ultimately fell short, losing to Alabama 37-21.
Despite the loss, the 2009 season was a remarkable achievement for the Longhorns, and it demonstrated the continued excellence of the program under Mack Brown. Though Texas was not able to secure their fourth national title that year, they remained a force in college football, consistently competing for championships.
Legacy of Texas Football and the National Championship
In addition to their four national titles, the Texas Longhorns have had numerous Big 12 Championships, bowl victories, and legendary players who have left an indelible mark on the history of college football. The program has produced some of the sport’s all-time greats, including Earl Campbell, Ricky Williams, Vince Young, and many others.
The Longhorns’ success is a testament to the strength and tradition of Texas football, and their four national championships—in 1963, 1969, 2005, and 2009—solidify their place as one of the most successful programs in college football history. The phrase “Hook ’em Horns!” has become a rallying cry for the team’s fans and symbolizes a proud tradition of excellence on the football field.
With their rich history, passionate fanbase, and continued commitment to success, the Texas Longhorns will undoubtedly continue to be a powerhouse in college football for years to come.
