Sam Houston vs Texas is an in-state college football matchup that connects the University of Texas Longhorns with Sam Houston State University Bearkats — two Texas public universities on very different levels of the college football hierarchy. Consequently, these early-season nonconference games allow Texas to evaluate depth while giving Sam Houston a national platform game that helps recruiting and program visibility. This guide covers the series history and both programs.
Series History Overview
Texas leads the all-time series against Sam Houston State by a wide margin given the enormous gap in resources and conference affiliation. Furthermore, Sam Houston State competes at the FCS (Football Championship Subdivision) level — one tier below the FBS level where Texas plays in the SEC. As a result, when these programs meet, the talent and resource differential typically produces dominant Texas performances, though FCS teams can occasionally outplay expectations against FBS opponents.
Sam Houston State Bearkats Program
Sam Houston State competes in the Western Athletic Conference and plays home games at Bowers Stadium in Huntsville, Texas. The Bearkats have been one of the more successful FCS programs in Texas, making multiple FCS playoff appearances. Furthermore, Sam Houston’s location 70 miles north of Houston gives the program access to the massive Houston area recruiting market. As a result, the Bearkats consistently field competitive FCS rosters with players who chose a proven program over lower-tier FBS offers.
Sam Houston State University
Sam Houston State University is a public university in Huntsville, Texas with approximately 20,000 students. The university is particularly well-regarded for its College of Criminal Justice — one of the best criminal justice programs in the United States — which benefits from proximity to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice headquarters in Huntsville. Furthermore, the Sam Houston National Forest surrounding Huntsville provides a natural environment that distinguishes the campus from flatland Texas universities.
In-State Scheduling Logic
Texas schedules Sam Houston State as a nonconference game for several reasons. The in-state matchup generates local interest and alumni engagement from the Huntsville area. Furthermore, a home game against an FCS opponent provides an opportunity to evaluate backup players in game conditions before the full SEC schedule begins. As a result, these games serve a roster evaluation function for Texas coaching staff that purely noncompetitive scrimmages cannot replicate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Has Sam Houston State played Texas in football?
Yes. Sam Houston State and Texas have met in college football as nonconference opponents, with the Longhorns typically scheduling the Bearkats as an early-season tune-up game.
What conference is Sam Houston State in?
Sam Houston State competes in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC) at the FCS level for football and various sports. The Bearkats play home games at Bowers Stadium in Huntsville, Texas.
Where is Sam Houston State University located?
Sam Houston State University is located in Huntsville, Texas, approximately 70 miles north of Houston. The campus is adjacent to the Texas Department of Criminal Justice headquarters and Sam Houston National Forest.
What is Sam Houston State known for academically?
Sam Houston State University is known for its criminal justice and forensic science programs, which are among the best in the country. The university also has strong programs in education, business, and the fine arts.
Who won the most recent Sam Houston vs Texas game?
Check our Texas Sports section for the most recent Sam Houston State vs Texas game result, score, and full game recap with player statistics.
Follow Texas Longhorn football in our Texas Sports section. You can also check the Texas Football Schedule for all 2025 opponents. Additionally, read our UTEP vs Texas guide for another in-state college football matchup.
