Texas and football go hand in hand, like chips and salsa. The Lone Star State boasts a rich history of gridiron greatness, with high school games drawing crowds that rival some college matchups. But when it comes to the NFL, how many teams call Texas home?
An Overview Of Texas NFL Teams
Texas is home to two NFL teams: the Dallas Cowboys and the Houston Texans. Both teams have distinct histories, fan bases, and contributions to the state’s football culture.
The Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys joined the NFL in 1960. Known as “America’s Team,” they have a storied history with five Super Bowl titles (1971, 1977, 1992, 1993, 1995). The team plays its home games at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, which opened in 2009 and boasts a seating capacity of approximately 80,000. The Cowboys’ iconic star logo and success on the field have garnered them a massive following both within Texas and nationwide.
The Houston Texans
The Houston Texans entered the NFL in 2002 as an expansion team. They play their home games at NRG Stadium in Houston, which has a seating capacity of around 72,000. While they haven’t won a Super Bowl yet, they’ve clinched multiple AFC South division titles since their inception. The team’s mascot is Toro the Bull; their colors are deep steel blue, battle red, and liberty white.
Both teams contribute significantly to Texas’s rich football heritage by providing thrilling performances each season.
Dallas Cowboys: America’s Team
The Dallas Cowboys have earned the moniker “America’s Team” due to their widespread popularity and successful history. They joined the NFL in 1960 and quickly became a dominant force.
History And Achievements
The Cowboys’ history is marked by success and innovation. Since their inception, they’ve won five Super Bowl titles (1971, 1977, 1992, 1993, 1995). The team has appeared in eight Super Bowls and secured numerous NFC East division titles. Players like Roger Staubach, Emmitt Smith, and Troy Aikman have become legends under the Cowboys’ banner.
Home Stadium
AT&T Stadium in Arlington serves as the home of the Dallas Cowboys. Opened in 2009 with a seating capacity exceeding 100,000 for major events, it’s one of the most technologically advanced stadiums worldwide. Known for its retractable roof and giant high-definition video screen spanning from one 20-yard line to the other.
Fan Base And Culture
The fan base of the Dallas Cowboys extends far beyond Texas borders. Often called “Cowboys Nation,” these fans are renowned for their loyalty regardless of performance fluctuations. Game days at AT&T Stadium feature tailgating parties filled with BBQs and live music. The team’s star logo is iconic across various merchandise from hats to jerseys.
Houston Texans: The Newcomers
The Houston Texans, established in 2002, are the NFL’s newest team based in Texas. They play a crucial role in expanding Texas’s rich football culture.
Formation And Early Years
In 1999, Bob McNair secured an NFL franchise for Houston after the Oilers moved to Tennessee. Officially joining the league as an expansion team in 2002, they played their first game against the Dallas Cowboys. The Texans won their debut match 19-10, marking a strong start despite initial challenges and several losing seasons.
Home Stadium
NRG Stadium, located in Houston, serves as the home of the Texans. Opened in 2002 with a seating capacity of approximately 72,220 fans, it was the first NFL stadium with a retractable roof. NRG Stadium has hosted significant events like Super Bowl XXXVIII and LI and is known for its modern amenities and fan-friendly environment.
Impact On Texas Football
The Texans have significantly impacted Texas football by fostering local talent and engaging fans statewide. Although they haven’t secured a Super Bowl win yet, they’ve clinched multiple AFC South division titles. Their presence enhances competition within the state and contributes to its vibrant football culture through community programs and youth initiatives.
Comparisons Between Cowboys And Texans
Both the Dallas Cowboys and the Houston Texans have unique attributes that influence their performance, fan demographics, and economic impact.
Team Performance
The Cowboys have a storied history with five Super Bowl titles, reflecting consistent success since joining the NFL in 1960. Key players like Roger Staubach and Emmitt Smith have shaped this legacy. In contrast, the Texans, established in 2002, are still building their reputation. They’ve secured multiple AFC South division titles but haven’t yet reached a Super Bowl. Their debut victory against the Cowboys set a competitive tone for future encounters.
Fan Demographics
Cowboys Nation includes fans from across the U.S., drawn by decades of high-profile wins and iconic branding as “America’s Team.” This broad appeal contrasts with the Texans’ more localized but passionate fan base concentrated in Houston and surrounding areas. The Texans focus on engaging local communities through initiatives like youth programs and community events to strengthen their regional support.
Economic Impact
The economic contributions of both teams extend beyond ticket sales. The Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium hosts numerous events year-round, generating significant revenue for Arlington. Similarly, NRG Stadium boosts Houston’s economy by hosting not only NFL games but also concerts and other major events. Both teams drive substantial merchandise sales globally while supporting local businesses through game-day activities.
The Role Of Texas In The NFL
Texas’s contribution to the NFL is significant, reflecting its deep-rooted football culture. The state’s passion for the sport translates into substantial support for its professional teams.
Contribution To NFL Popularity
The Dallas Cowboys and Houston Texans boost the league’s popularity. The Cowboys, with their rich history and national fan base, attract millions of viewers each season. For example, they consistently top television ratings during their games. Their global brand includes partnerships with major companies like Nike and Pepsi. Meanwhile, the Texans engage local fans through community events and youth programs, enhancing regional interest in the NFL.
Influence On College Football
Texas also influences college football due to its high school talent pool feeding universities across the country. Many players from Texas high schools join NCAA Division I programs annually. This pipeline strengthens college teams and raises overall competition levels in collegiate leagues. Additionally, both NFL teams scout heavily within Texas colleges, further intertwining professional and college football landscapes in the state.
Conclusion
Texas’s passion for football is deeply ingrained in its culture, and the presence of two NFL teams—the Dallas Cowboys and the Houston Texans—only amplifies this fervor. Each team brings its own unique flavor to the state, from the Cowboys’ storied legacy and national appeal to the Texans’ spirited local fan base.
These teams don’t just entertain; they contribute significantly to their communities both economically and culturally. Whether it’s through hosting major events or fostering local talent, the Cowboys and Texans are integral parts of Texas’s vibrant football scene.
As a fan or even a casual observer, it’s clear that Texas’s love for football extends beyond high school fields into the grand stages of AT&T Stadium and NRG Stadium. This state’s commitment to the sport is unwavering, making it a cornerstone of America’s gridiron landscape.