Texas Longhorns Top AP Preseason Poll for First Time in Program History
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After a successful 2020 season, the Texas Longhorns have secured the top spot in the AP preseason poll for the first time.
Alamo Bowl News and Analysis
About Alamo Bowl
The Alamo Bowl is an annual NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision college football game held since 1993 at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. It was initially established to bring high-profile college football action to San Antonio during the holiday season and to boost local tourism during one of the city’s slowest times of the year[1][2]. The game typically features top teams from the Pac-12 and Big 12 conferences, drawing large crowds and significant television audiences. The bowl began as the Builders Square Alamo Bowl and underwent several name changes reflecting its sponsorships, including partnerships with Sylvania and MasterCard. Since 2007, it has been sponsored by San Antonio-based Valero Energy Corporation, enhancing its brand as the Valero Alamo Bowl, a partnership that extends through 2025[1][2]. The sponsorship has helped the bowl grow into a significant sporting event and economic driver for the region. Over its 30-year history, the Alamo Bowl has attracted nearly 1.9 million spectators and generated over $1.1 billion in economic impact. It has contributed more than $174 million to higher education through team payouts and scholarships, making it one of the most generous bowls in terms of educational funding[3]. The game has become a holiday tradition in San Antonio, celebrated for its exciting matchups, large attendance, and strong television ratings, reaching over 156 million ESPN viewers historically[2][3]. Notable moments include early ties to the Southwest Conference before its dissolution, memorable team performances, and unique events such as the 1996 Iowa Hawkeyes’ tribute to a teammate’s mother[1]. The Alamo Bowl is recognized for combining sports, community engagement, and economic benefits, making it a standout event in college football and a vital asset for San Antonio’s tourism and business sectors[2][3].