Why Is It Called the “Cotton Bowl”? The History Behind the Naming of the CFB Semifinal Game

Ohio State vs. Texas in the 2024 CFP Semifinal at Arlington is shaping up to be a blockbuster. But have you ever wondered why it’s called the “Cotton Bowl”? Think of it like the “Avengers” of college football—the name’s packed with history and legacy, just like how iconic superheroes have their backstories. It’s not just about the teams; it’s about the tradition behind this legendary game. Let’s dive into the story and see why this name is bigger than you think!

The Cotton Bowl wasn’t always the Cotton Bowl. It started off as Fair Park Stadium in 1930, but that name didn’t last long. In 1936, Texas oilman J. Curtis Sanford saw how big the Rose Bowl was and thought Texas needed something similar. So, he dropped $6,000 to create the Cotton Bowl Classic, which kicked off in 1937 with TCU beating Marquette. The name? It’s a nod to Texas being the cotton king and a playful take on the “cotton boll.” And just like that, the Cotton Bowl was born.

The Cotton Bowl ain’t always known by that name. It started as Fair Park Stadium in 1930 but switched things up in 1936 when Texas oilman J. Curtis Sanford saw the success of the Rose Bowl and decided Texas needed its own big event. He dropped $6,000 to kick off the Cotton Bowl Classic in 1937, with TCU taking down Marquette. Why the name? It’s all about Texas’ cotton roots and a fun spin on “cotton boll.” That’s how the Cotton Bowl became what it is today!

So, after all that history, the Cotton Bowl made another big move in 2010. It shifted from the old stadium in Dallas to AT&T Stadium in Arlington, where it’s been held ever since. The game’s first year there saw Ole Miss take down Oklahoma State 21-7. Part of the reason for the move? Dallas’ chilly January weather was a real concern. AT&T Stadium’s retractable roof gave the game a much-needed backup plan for whatever the weather decided to do. Now, with Ohio State and Texas Longhorns coming to town, the Cotton Bowl is still flexing its legacy in full force.

Bucks-Longhorns past Cotton Bowl appearance

The Ohio State Buckeyes have had their fair share of Cotton Bowl moments, appearing in the prestigious game four times in total, including two years in a row. This streak shows just how much they’ve dominated the college football scene, and their presence in the bowl continues to build on that legacy.

On the flip side, the Texas Longhorns hold the record for the most appearances in this Bowl game’s history, showing up 22 times. With an 11-10-1 record, they’ve got some serious history here, though their last appearance was way back on Jan. 1, 2003. Still, their legacy at the Cotton Bowl remains unmatched.

The Cotton Bowl Classic has become even more important with the 12-team playoff expansion, as the winner now gets a direct ticket to the College Football Playoff championship game. It’s cemented its place as a permanent part of the New Year’s Six bowls. Plus, the team that claims victory walks away with the coveted Field Scovell Trophy. Now, as Ohio State and Texas Longhorns prepare to face off, the stakes have never been higher. It’s clear that this legendary bowl is more than just a game—it’s a pathway to the ultimate college football glory.