Longhorn fans show up and show out for team's first home playoff game
AUSTIN, Texas - Longhorn fans were out in full force here - for the first-ever playoff game to be held at DKR stadium.
A big turnout is expected for this highly anticipated match up, the Clemson Tigers and Longhorns in what's been a historic season for the Horns.
"The fans are great, Sarkisian is great, the players are great. So, it's just been a great season," said Longhorn fan, Eric Bolling.
A historic year for the Longhorns.
This year is the first the Horns are in the Southeastern Conference.
"I think this is the best team that they've had obviously in a while. And so, it's been really fun watching them coming into the SEC," said Longhorn fan, Kelly Freeman.
"First time in the SEC and first time to be part of CFP is just awesome," said Bolling.
Darrell K. Royal Texas Memorial Stadium –also turning a century-old in November.
The season also marks the first of the 12-team format compared to last year’s four team playoffs meaning more teams have opportunities for home games.
It will also be the Tiger’s first trip to the state capital in their program’s history.
"The fact that this game was at home and was a home field advantage is huge," said Freeman.
Some fans were coming from out of state to support their teams.
"We flew in from Colorado at 5:30 this morning so that we could come see the Longhorns make it to the next round of the playoffs," said Freeman.
For others, they’re supporting family.
"We represent Corian Gipson. Number 12, cornerback out of Clemson," said Francis Gipson, Clemson fan.
Texas has only lost one game at home so far.
But Clemson hasn’t lost an away game all season.
After today, it's all about what comes next.
"We definitely want to get to the next round winning everything so last game of the season but then the chance to maybe come back again next year, but see how it plays out. I mean, the goal is to win it all," said Bolling.
"As soon as the season's over, it's all about next year," said Bolling.
The Longhorns play Arizona State on New Year's Day.