AUSTIN, Texas — The Texas Longhorns opened the 2026 season with a win over Texas State, but the excitement around the Forty Acres started long before kickoff.

Longhorn fans packed the area around DKR Stadium Saturday, bringing tailgates, school spirit and plenty of anticipation for the return of college football to Austin.

“This is game day, let’s go. Bobcats versus Longhorns,” said Joshua Matyukov, a UT student.

Saturday’s game marked the first meeting between Texas and Texas State since 1930, when the Bobcats were known by a different name.

For Texas State fans, the matchup offered an opportunity to see how the program stacks up against the Longhorns.

“Texas State, they’re really coming up. We’ve grown our program a lot,” said Garrett Chapel, a Texas State fan. “So I’m excited to see how we can compete against the big brands like Texas.”

RELATED: Longhorns, Bobcats Kick Off First Matchup Since 1930

The Bobcats are also entering their first season in the Pac-12, and fans say a game against Texas could bring additional attention to the program.

“I think this is going to bring a lot more attention to Texas State,” said Taylor Sharp, a Texas State alumni. “Hopefully they get some more NIL money going through.”

While Texas State fans were hoping to see their team make a statement, Longhorn fans were eager to see what Texas could do to start the season.

“I’m looking forward to seeing number 16, making some complete passes, some touchdowns,” said Matyukov.

The excitement surrounding football also extended beyond the stadium.

Home football games bring thousands of fans into Austin, creating a boost for local businesses as people eat, shop and spend time around the city.

“We’ve kind of been waiting, anticipating this first game, especially because it is a local game against Texas State, so everyone is here,” said Phillip Torres, owner of Texas Drip BBQ.

And Saturday’s game was only the beginning.

Texas has seven home games scheduled this season, giving Austin businesses more opportunities to benefit from the crowds throughout the fall.

The Longhorns now turn their attention to one of the biggest games of the season.

Texas will host Ohio State next Saturday at DKR Stadium in a top-five showdown.

“So every game is a good game. It’s a good contribution for us as well,” said Randy Tijerina, with Juicy Lucee’s ATX. “I know that next week is our big game. It’s a good push for the rest of the year.”

Longhorns and Buckeyes kick off next Saturday at 6:30 p.m. .