How Many Texans Does It Take to Win a Super Bowl? Apparently, a Bunch From Other States Too
Ah, Texas. Land of ten-gallon hats, sizzling steaks, and...well, a whole lot of football. But here's the funny thing: while Texas high school football is legendary, the NFL landscape tells a different story. You see, while Texas churns out football talent like a tumbleweed factory in a dust storm, many of those superstars head elsewhere to chase that coveted Lombardi Trophy.
The Texas Exes: From Fields of Blue to the NFL Spotlight
The University of Texas has a long and storied football program, a breeding ground for future NFL stars. We're talking legends like Earl Campbell, the "Tyler Rose" who ran defenses over like a runaway longhorn. Earl wasn't much for roses, though, preferring to leave opponents feeling trampled. More recent standouts include Vince Young, whose scrambling wizardry had defenses seeing double (or maybe that was the Texas heat).
But here's the rub: while these Longhorns light up college stadiums, they often find greener pastures (and perhaps better chances at a ring) in the NFL. Young, for example, ended up with the Tennessee Titans. Seems like Texas teaches 'em to run, but winning championships takes a full team effort.
Not Just Longhorns, But A Lone Star Constellation of Talent
Texas isn't a one-trick pony, though. Texas A&M, TCU, Baylor – they all pump out NFL talent. Johnny Manziel, the "Johnny Football" phenom, came out of A&M with a swagger that could rival a Texas two-step champion. Just ask the defense that tried to tackle him – they probably ended up line-dancing. But again, Manziel ended up with the Cleveland Browns, a team known for its...um...interesting history.
There are, of course, exceptions. Sammy Baugh, a halfback (way back in the leather helmet days) out of TCU, actually did win a championship with the Washington Redskins. Guess some Texas boys can find success without leaving the Lone Star State.
So, Can Texans Win a Super Bowl on Their Own Turf?
The jury's still out. The Dallas Cowboys haven't hoisted the Lombardi since the days of shoulder pads the size of refrigerators. The Houston Texans, well, they're still searching for their first. Maybe one day the stars will align, and all those Texas-bred talents will come together to form a team as big as the state itself. Until then, though, Texas fans will have to cheer on their "exes" scattered across the NFL, dreaming of the day a true Texas team conquers the gridiron.
