DALLAS, Texas — The Red River Rivalry is one of the biggest games in college football this year. On Saturday, thousands of fans will flock to Fair Park for the game which will be held at the historic Cotton Bowl stadium.
The 94-year-old stadium is currently in the middle of a $140 million renovation project.
While there are signs of paused construction currently, fans like Pam and Bob Meier who will be attending the game said it’s needed.
“Even though it’s kind of showing its age, it’s the fact that people come and pack it like this and sell out crowds. It shows you just how important it is,” said Pam Meier.
The two are from Minnesota and have traveled for games at the Cotton Bowl for years.
Overland Partners Inc. is the architecture firm heading the renovations. The updates include 14 new escalators, new premium seating and an expanded press area.
According to the Dallas Parks and Recreation Department, work started in March and is expected to be completed by the start of the 2025 State Fair of Texas.
The construction is hidden by the hundreds of people who travel to the area surrounded by fair food.
Juan Reaves is the co-owner of Smokey John’s Bar-B-Que which sits right outside the stadium.
“This is where they’re going to come out, win or lose, happy or sad,” said Reaves.
Reaves said he’s anticipating that this upcoming Saturday will be one of the year's busiest days.
“For Saturday alone, we’ll probably prepare close to 1000 pounds of brisket,” he said.
For the 120th meeting, the Longhorns and Sooners will return to a 2:30 p.m. CT kickoff on WFAA (ABC).