Week 2 College Football Preview: Exciting Matchups and High Stakes

The **Texas Longhorns** are the collegiate athletic teams representing the University of Texas at Austin, a flagship institution known for its extensive and successful sports programs. The Longhorns brand is deeply tied to Texas heritage, named after the iconic Longhorn cattle, which symbolize the state's history and culture. Their mascot, Bevo, is a Texas Longhorn steer, embodying the spirit and pride of the university’s athletic tradition[2][3]. Founded in the early 20th century, the Longhorns have grown into one of the most recognizable and influential college sports brands in the nation. The nickname "Longhorn" appeared in newspapers as early as 1900, and the university officially adopted burnt orange and white as its colors by 1900, with burnt orange solidified as the signature shade in the 1960s[2][3]. The university's athletic department is notable for being self-sustaining financially, operating without subsidies from the state or university, relying on revenue from ticket sales, fundraising, sponsorships, and licensing[1][2]. The Texas Longhorns compete in a wide array of varsity sports, including football, basketball, baseball, and many others, with a commitment to excellence in both athletic and academic integrity. Texas was recognized as "America's Best Sports College" by *Sports Illustrated* in 2002 and has been a leading collegiate licensing client, generating significant revenue from fan merchandise[2]. The football team, a centerpiece of the program, competes at the NCAA Division I FBS level and is a member of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) as of recent years, aiming high in national competitions[4][7]. Beyond varsity sports, the university supports numerous club sports and student organizations, offering a rich environment for leadership and community engagement[5][6]. Texas Athletics emphasizes a culture of integrity, respect, and tradition, fostering an engaged and motivated environment for athletes and fans alike[1][3]. Toda

The **Illinois Fighting Illini** are the intercollegiate athletic teams representing the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, competing primarily in the NCAA Division I as members of the Big Ten Conference. The organization fields 21 varsity teams, including 10 men's and 11 women's sports, with a broad range of facilities such as Memorial Stadium for football, the State Farm Center for basketball, and multiple venues for baseball, softball, swimming, tennis, soccer, and track and field[1][2][6]. Founded in the late 19th century, the Fighting Illini nickname first appeared in 1911, originally describing the basketball team’s competitive spirit, and has since become the official moniker for all University of Illinois athletic teams[2][5]. The football program, established in 1890, is a cornerstone of the organization’s history, boasting five national championships and 15 Big Ten titles. Memorial Stadium, dedicated to World War I fallen students, serves as a historic and symbolic home for the football team with a capacity of over 60,000 spectators[3]. The Fighting Illini have garnered over 25 national championships across various sports dating back to 1900 and have produced numerous Olympians and professional athletes, highlighting their tradition of athletic excellence[1][6]. The organization also maintains a vibrant student support culture through Illini Pride, the largest registered student group on campus, which encompasses over 3,000 members and multiple cheering sections that energize the sporting events[4]. Today, under the leadership of Athletic Director Josh Whitman and coaches like football’s Bret Bielema, the Fighting Illini continue to advance competitive athletics while fostering community and school spirit. Their historic legacy, extensive facilities, and active fan base make the Fighting Illini a significant presence in collegiate sports, blending tradition with ongoing ambition in a major American university setting[1][3][4][6].

Iowa State University, founded in 1858 as the Iowa Agricultural College and Model Farm, is one of the United States' pioneering land-grant institutions, established under the Morrill Act provisions[1][2]. Located in Story County, Iowa, it began with a 648-acre farm and opened its doors to students in 1869, embracing an inclusive educational philosophy that welcomed both men and women from its first graduating class in 1872[1][3]. The university’s mission centers on creating, sharing, and applying knowledge to improve Iowa and the world, reflecting its roots in practical and liberal education[2][3]. Over time, it evolved from a primarily agricultural college to a comprehensive university known today as Iowa State University of Science and Technology, a name adopted officially in 1959 to reflect its expanded focus on engineering and technology[3]. Key achievements include establishing the nation’s first state veterinary medicine school in 1879, pioneering agricultural and mechanical engineering programs, and significant contributions to scientific innovation, such as the development of the first binary digital computer and involvement in the Manhattan Project during World War II[3][4][9]. The university has also contributed inventions like the round hay baler and Maytag blue cheese, underscoring its blend of agricultural and technological innovation[3]. Currently, Iowa State University is a major research and educational institution with over 31,000 students enrolled and a faculty of nearly 1,850. Its campus spans 1,813 acres and offers more than 300 degree programs across bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and certificate levels[2]. It hosts a diverse international community from over 100 countries and an alumni network exceeding 273,000 worldwide[2]. Notable aspects of Iowa State include its progressive land-grant mission emphasizing accessibility, practical education, and community outreach through cooperative extension programs, making it a unique blend of tradition and innovation in business and technology education[1][3][4].

## Overview The Ohio State University (OSU) is a major public land-grant research university located in Columbus, Ohio, established in 1870 and now one of the largest universities in the United States by enrollment[1][4]. As a member of the Association of American Universities, Ohio State is classified as an R1 institution—designating “very high research activity”—and serves nearly 50,000 undergraduate and 15,000 graduate students across more than 400 degree programs[4]. The university operates a main campus in Columbus and several regional campuses in Ohio, including Lima, Mansfield, Marion, and Newark, as well as the Agricultural Technical Institute in Wooster[1][3]. ## Mission and Activities Ohio State’s mission centers on academic excellence, research, and public service, embodying its land-grant heritage by providing accessible, high-quality education and driving innovation that benefits society[5]. The university is organized into 18 colleges and schools, offering more than 12,000 courses and housing over 200 academic centers and institutes where interdisciplinary research and policy-making thrive[1]. OSU is particularly recognized for its strengths in fields such as nursing, business, and supply chain management, with several programs ranked among the top 10 nationally[2]. ## History and Key Achievements Since its first graduating class in 1878, Ohio State has grown into an academic powerhouse. It is the nation’s top producer of Fulbright Scholars, a leading contributor of Peace Corps volunteers, and boasts an impressive roster of alumni and faculty, including Nobel laureates, Pulitzer winners, and Olympic medalists[1][4]. The university consistently ranks among the top public institutions in the U.S., currently holding the 15th spot nationally and 1st in Ohio according to U.S. News & World Report[1][2]. OSU is also lauded for its commitment to student success, affordability, and veteran support, earning recognition as a “Best of

The term "Oregon" primarily refers to the U.S. state government and its related institutions rather than a single private organization. The **Oregon state government** oversees a wide range of public services including transportation, education, human services, and economic development. Its agencies manage significant budgets and legislative priorities affecting millions of residents. In 2025, Oregon's government focused heavily on transportation infrastructure, housing expansion, behavioral health, education accountability, and wildfire combat funding, reflecting Governor Tina Kotek’s legislative priorities[1][3][4]. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) played a crucial role in advancing major infrastructure projects such as the Interstate Bridge Replacement Project, supported by specific legislative changes in 2025[1]. The state legislature passed 640 bills in 2025, impacting various sectors including transportation and higher education[1][3]. Oregon's budget for the 2025-27 biennium totals approximately $138.9 billion, a 6.3% increase from the previous cycle, highlighting the state's growing investment in public services[2]. This includes $37.3 billion from the General Fund, $1.8 billion from Lottery funds, and $43.7 billion in federal funds[2]. However, funding challenges remain, especially in higher education, where public universities received less than requested for operating support, increasing pressure on tuition and institutional budgets[3]. Oregon’s research and educational institutions, such as Oregon State University, are deeply intertwined with federal funding, which comprises more than three-fourths of their sponsored activities. The 2025 federal government shutdown posed risks to ongoing research projects and educational programs, although short-term impacts were manageable[5]. Notably, Oregon’s state government continues to emphasize sustainability, public safety, and economic resilience through comprehensive legislative and budgetary measures, positioning the state as a significant player in public sector innovation and infrastructure development in the Pacific Northwest. In summary, **Oregon as an organization** is best understood as a complex

Iowa is not an organization but a U.S. state with a well-structured government that plays a pivotal role in shaping its economy, public services, and technological advancement. Established in 1846, Iowa’s government is built on a constitution adopted in 1857, which outlines a three-branch system: executive, legislative, and judicial. The executive branch is led by a governor and lieutenant governor, elected on a joint ticket, alongside other key officials such as the secretary of state, auditor, treasurer, attorney general, and secretary of agriculture. These officials serve four-year terms with no term limits, ensuring continuity and stability in leadership. The legislative branch, known as the General Assembly, consists of a 50-member Senate and a 100-member House of Representatives. Unique among U.S. states, Iowa’s legislation is drafted by the nonpartisan Legislative Services Bureau, which also handles electoral redistricting, contributing to a reputation for neutrality and transparency. The judicial branch includes the Supreme Court, Court of Appeals, and District Courts, ensuring a robust legal framework. Iowa’s government is notable for its commitment to fiscal transparency and data-driven decision-making. The state’s Department of Management oversees budget preparation, performance management, and grants administration, while promoting lean enterprise practices and advanced data analytics. Initiatives like Iowa Open Data and Iowa Checkbook provide public access to state financial information, fostering accountability and innovation. Historically, Iowans have valued integrity in government, with a strong civil service system and active oversight mechanisms. The state’s focus on technology and transparency has positioned it as a leader in public sector innovation, making it an attractive environment for business and technology ventures. Iowa’s blend of tradition, transparency, and forward-thinking governance continues to drive its economic and social progress.