COLLEGE STATION, TX / BATON ROUGE, LA – In a move solidifying one of the most intense and, at times, volatile rivalries in college football, Texas A&M University and Louisiana State University today announced a formal “Forever Rivalry” agreement. The landmark deal guarantees the Aggies and Tigers will face off annually on Thanksgiving weekend, ensuring the rivalry remains a permanent fixture of the college football calendar.
The announcement comes amidst a period of significant conference realignment and a new 16-team SEC format, which has raised concerns about the future of traditional rivalries. The agreement with a set date ensures that the matchup, which has delivered some of the most memorable and high-stakes moments in recent memory, will not fall victim to a rotating schedule.
“This rivalry has become a defining part of our culture,” said Texas A&M Athletics Director Ross Bjork. “The game has consistently delivered historic moments, from the seven-overtime classic in 2018 to countless matchups with conference and national championship implications.
Formalizing this rivalry for the last weekend of the regular season is a win for our fans, our players, and the tradition of college football. It is the perfect conclusion to the season before we head into the postseason.”
While the series between the two schools dates back to 1899, the rivalry truly ignited when Texas A&M joined the Southeastern Conference in 2012. Playing as SEC West foes, the annual matchup took on a new level of intensity.
The games have been consistently close and competitive, highlighted by the 2018 game at Kyle Field, a thrilling 74-72, seven-overtime victory for the Aggies that set an NCAA record for most combined points in a game and led to an on-field altercation that further fueled the fire.
“The LSU-Texas A&M game is a celebration of the unique passion of the SEC,” said LSU Athletics Director Scott Woodward.
“We are thrilled to officially make this a ‘Forever Rivalry.’ The Aggies and Tigers bring out the best in each other, and scheduling this game on Thanksgiving weekend ensures that this great tradition will be enjoyed by college football fans for decades to come. It’s a rivalry that has grown into something truly special.”
The move is also a strategic one, recognizing the financial and cultural importance of the rivalry. The Thanksgiving weekend slot is a prime broadcast window, and securing it ensures a massive national audience and a significant financial benefit for both universities. It also provides a stable end-of-season opponent for both programs in a conference where every other matchup is subject to change.
“This is not just about tradition; it’s about business,” said a sports industry analyst. “The LSU-Texas A&M game is a guaranteed ratings winner.
By locking it in, both schools have created a premier event that will continue to generate a massive amount of revenue and brand recognition, regardless of where they are in the standings. It’s a smart move in a time of great uncertainty in college athletics.”
The agreement also acknowledges the regional pride that fuels the rivalry. With Texas A&M representing the Lone Star State and LSU representing Louisiana, the game is a battle for Gulf Coast bragging rights.
The new agreement ensures that this regional clash will continue to be the finale to the regular season, with the winner earning a year’s worth of bragging rights. The first game under the “Forever Rivalry” agreement will take place on November 27, 2026.
Be the first to comment