Marvin Mims recalls the environment of last year's Red River Showdown

Oklahoma legends can be born at the Cotton Bowl during the Red River Showdown. Marvin Mims accomplished exactly that last year thanks to his incredible touchdown catch. Part of a thrilling comeback win over Texas, Mims has fond memories of the 2021 matchup.

Mims called the game “one of the most fun” he’s ever played in but also remembered how hot it was on the sidelines. Nonetheless, positive moments came throughout a majority of the second half — something the Oklahoma wide receiver will never forget.

CLICK HERE to subscribe for FREE to the On3 YouTube channel

“Last year’s game, we came out down 28-7 in the first quarter,” Mims said. “After that, things turned out brighter. I remember it being the hottest game I have ever played in. On the sidelines, guys feeling like they were going to pass out. Being able to make big plays, hearing the crowd chant — it’s amazing. Probably one of the most fun games I have played in, for sure. It was a huge moment in my life. Something I will never forget.”

The moment of magic occurred early in the fourth quarter, with Mims making an incredible diving catch in the corner of the endzone. Now USC quarterback Caleb Williams gave Mims a 50-50 ball on third-and-10, and he came down with it, tying the game at 41 apiece.

Oklahoma went on to win the game in dramatic fashion thanks to Mims’ efforts.

“Momentum is huge” according to Marvin Mims

A tale of two halves is how last season’s Red River could be described, with both sides having swings of momentum throughout. Mims said that’s a huge part of the rivalry game, especially when the stadium is half Texas fans, half Oklahoma fans.

“When you’re half and half, momentum is huge,” Mims said. “You got your fans there and they got their fans too. Whoever goes to that game, they’re loud. Whoever is up, they’re going to make the whole stadium sound like it’s a home game.

“Momentum is a huge part of that game, however we play, however it goes. We felt it last year. Texas was loud. Our fans really couldn’t say anything. At the end of the game, we’re going crazy. So yeah, momentum is a huge part of this game.”

Mims will be wanting to get the momentum of the Oklahoma program swinging back in the right direction on Saturday, needing a win vs. Texas. The Sooners have lost two straight and a third would be devastating for head coach Brent Venables. But if anybody can lift them up offensively, it’s Mims.