The Red River rivalry is getting an extra splash of excitement this year, thanks to Quinn Ewers and Michael Hawkins teaming up for Dr Pepper’s latest NIL commercial. The historic game is played between the Texas Longhorns (5-0, 1-0, SEC) and Oklahoma Sooners (4-1, 1-1).
Ewers, returning from an abdominal injury just in time for the big game, is expected to impress football fanatics with his arm strength and through his partnership with Dr Pepper.
The Texas QB1 is starring in the brand’s iconic “Fansville” ad campaign, a staple of college football culture. Meanwhile, Hawkins has made a name for himself after a strong performance against the Auburn Tigers and has secured his first major NIL deal with the soda giant.
The new commercial features the two quarterbacks in exclusive Dr Pepper apparel designed by fashion mogul Nigel Xavier. Have a look:
Andrew Springate, Dr Pepper’s chief marketing officer, stated the company’s vision with respect to college football:
“As we mark Dr Pepper’s 10th anniversary of becoming the official sponsor of the College Football Playoffs, we welcome the new changes energizing the game, as it provides us with even greater opportunities to engage with both new and long-term fans, celebrating new beginnings while embracing the traditions of fandom together.”
This is not the first time that Dr. Pepper has dipped his hands in the college football landscape. It has previously linked up with the likes of Caleb Williams and DJ Uiagalelei. The Red River Rivalry is set for October 12 at 2:30 p.m.
Also read: Where is the Red River Rivalry played? Looking at Texas-Oklahoma game day details ahead of Week 6 showdown
Brent Venables is ready for Texas challenge in Red River Rivalry
Oklahoma Sooners coach knows his team’s challenge in the Red River Rivalry this Saturday. With its electrifying offense, Texas ranks among the nation’s best in nearly every category. The Longhorns are putting up 45 points per game and sit fourth in red-zone touchdown efficiency, with an 88.89% success rate.
“They have no weaknesses on paper or on tape,” Venables admitted. “They’ve playing really, really well. Our guys are excited about the challenge.”
He knows the Sooners have a mountain to climb. The Sooners, ranked No. 19, rely on their defense to pull off the upset in Dallas. Defensive end Trace Ford also echoed the team’s confidence, stating,
“They haven’t played a defense like us this year.”
It’ll be interesting to see if Oklahoma has an outside chance against the No. 1 ranked Longhorns in the 120th Red River Rivalry game.
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Edited by nagpaltusharn25
