Introduction to the Battle of the Bluebonnet
The state’s most-played rivalry, known as the Battle of the Bluebonnet, has been a longstanding tradition, with over a century of history. This rivalry has also been referred to by other names, including the Revivalry, a catchy and fitting title that nods to the evangelical roots of both Baylor and TCU. Another possible name for this rivalry could be the Art and Gary Bowl, named after the intense six-year period in its 121-game history.
The Game
The Horned Frogs’ 42-36 win over Baylor on a soggy Saturday afternoon at Amon Carter was marked by not one, not two, but three lightning delays. The first delay occurred just after the start of the fourth quarter, with TCU up by 14 points, and lasted for 58 minutes. The second delay came 16 minutes later and was 20 seconds from expiring when officials called a third stoppage. In total, the delays added up to more than two hours. Given the heritage of both schools, it’s possible that the game was affected by a higher power, with some speculating that God didn’t want the game to end or that His aim was off.
The Turning Point
When the celestial fireworks finally stopped, it seemed as though the visitors had gained an advantage. Three "catastrophic mistakes" – a fumble return for a Baylor touchdown, a 35-yard touchdown pass, and the recovery of an onside kick – turned what had been a one-sided game into a nail-biter. It wasn’t until Nambi Obiazor’s pick at midfield in the final seconds that TCU’s coach, Sonny Dykes, could finally exhale. Dykes stated, "We gotta learn how to finish the game, because we almost gave it away at the end." Despite the close call, Dykes was pleased with the outcome, saying, "It wasn’t pretty, but I don’t really care. We’re 11-3 in our last 14 games. This football team knows how to win."
The Battle of the Quarterbacks
The game featured two of the nation’s top quarterbacks, statistically speaking: Sawyer Robertson and Josh Hoover. Both players are from Texas and came into the game averaging 343 and 315.5 yards, respectively. The possibilities suggested a high-scoring game, similar to those seen from 2010-2015 when Art Briles and Gary Patterson coached against each other. However, the game did not quite live up to expectations, with the Bears settling for field goals while the Frogs scored touchdowns.
The Difference Maker
The difference in the game early on was that Baylor kept kicking field goals while TCU was scoring touchdowns. Baylor made a nice run in the third quarter to cut TCU’s 18-point lead to 28-21 after the start of the fourth. However, settling for a field goal proved to be a problem, as three plays after Connor Hawkins’ 41-yard kick, Trent Battle ripped through the left side of Baylor’s defensive line for a 65-yard touchdown. Baylor looked as though it would fade from view, mostly because Robertson couldn’t match Hoover throw for throw. But Hoover also coughed up a fumble when the Frogs were just trying to run the clock, resulting in a Baylor touchdown and a chain reaction of unfortunate events for the home team.
The Win and Its Implications
The win continued diametrically-opposed trends for the Frogs, who are now 4-0 at home but 0-2 on the road since their opening win at North Carolina. Last week’s 41-28 loss at Kansas State, the same school Baylor beat two weeks ago, and Saturday’s near-giveaway suggest a team still figuring it out. When asked if the Frogs have come close to their potential, Dykes said, "Not yet. I think you probably saw glimpses of it today." The Frogs finally showed signs of a running game with 197 yards on Saturday.
Conclusion
The Battle of the Bluebonnet is a longstanding rivalry with a rich history. The recent game between TCU and Baylor was marked by multiple lightning delays and a close finish. Despite the challenges, TCU emerged victorious, with a final score of 42-36. The game featured two top quarterbacks and was marked by several key mistakes that turned the tide of the game. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how both teams continue to develop and compete.
FAQs
Q: What is the name of the rivalry between TCU and Baylor?
A: The rivalry is known as the Battle of the Bluebonnet, although it has also been referred to as the Revivalry and could be called the Art and Gary Bowl.
Q: How many lightning delays were there during the recent game between TCU and Baylor?
A: There were three lightning delays, with the first lasting 58 minutes and the total delay time exceeding two hours.
Q: Who are the two top quarterbacks that played in the recent game between TCU and Baylor?
A: The two quarterbacks are Sawyer Robertson and Josh Hoover, both of whom are from Texas and have impressive statistical records.
Q: What was the final score of the recent game between TCU and Baylor?
A: The final score was 42-36 in favor of TCU.
Q: What is the current record of the TCU Frogs at home and on the road?
A: The Frogs are currently 4-0 at home but 0-2 on the road since their opening win at North Carolina.
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