Austin Sports Weekend: College Football Meets Formula 1 in an Unforgettable Showdown

Austin Set to Host an Epic Sports Weekend

This weekend, the lively city of Austin is gearing up to become the hub of the sports universe. With not one, but two colossal events dominating the schedule, locals and visitors alike are buzzing with excitement. On Saturday night, the No. 1 Texas Longhorns will face off against the No. 5 Georgia Bulldogs, a clash that promises to shake the foundations of college football. But that’s not all; on Sunday, the track at the Circuit of The Americas will welcome the Formula 1 Pirelli United States Grand Prix, marking the premier F1 race in America. Both mega events will be aired on ABC, making it impossible for sports fans to feel left out.

Kickoff with College GameDay

As if that wasn’t enough to get Austin buzzing, the festivities will kick off with ESPN’s College GameDay broadcasting live from DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium. This marks the ninth time that College GameDay has come to Austin, and fans are hopeful for a change in fortune. The last few GameDay visits haven’t gone the Longhorns’ way—since 2009, Texas has not managed to claim victory during the pregames. Sounds like the Longhorn Nation is eager to break that streak this weekend!

Who Will Be the Guest Picker?

One of the highlights of College GameDay is the guest picker, a tradition that always brings a mix of excitement and celebrity vibes. Last week, the pick came from Kaitlin Olson, the beloved actress known for her role in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, during Oregon’s College GameDay. With so many notable alumni from the University of Texas—including actors, athletes, and even astronauts—the speculation around this weekend’s guest picker is at an all-time high.

The Contenders

There’s a long list of potential candidates for the coveted guest picker chair, and some notable names stand out:

• Scottie Scheffler: The former Longhorns golfer is fresh off a remarkable year, becoming the only golfer to win The Players Championship, the Masters, and the Tour Championship within the same season. His star continues to shine bright, though balancing fatherhood with his golf career might keep him away.
• Glenn Powell: Rising star thanks to Top Gun: Maverick, he also has a new series coming out. He’s been seen promoting the Texas Takeover, but he was the guest picker during the Alabama game in 2022.
• Ricky Williams: The Heisman Trophy winner has ample experience on camera, having served as an analyst. It would be fitting to see him as the guest picker at his alma mater.
• Vince Young: Known for his incredible performance in the 2005 National Championship, he’s been making a comeback with the Athletic Department. Texas fans would love to see him pick.
• Kevin Durant: The NBA superstar has ties to Texas, and though he doesn’t have a game this weekend, his participation might depend on discussions with the Suns organization.
• Earl Campbell: The first Longhorn to claim a Heisman Trophy, he’s a legend around campus. But will nerves keep him from the spotlight?
• Matthew McConaughey: Always a fan favorite, he brought fun to a previous game. His charisma could be the highlight of the morning.
• Eminem: A wildcard choice, he’ll be performing Saturday night at the Circuit of The Americas, making for an unexpected crossover.

All Eyes on the Action

As the weekend approaches, the anticipation is palpable. Fans will gather in droves, not only to watch Texas battle Georgia but also to witness a thrilling Formula 1 race the next day. With College GameDay in the mix, the atmosphere in Austin is sure to be electric, and who knows—perhaps a big surprise awaits when they reveal the guest picker. With all these big names in town, one thing is sure: Austin will be the place to be!

So, grab your favorite team gear, settle in for some pregame snacks, and get ready to cheer on the Longhorns. After all, it’s not just a sports weekend; it’s a celebration of spirit, community, and unparalleled excitement in the heart of Texas!