1973 Darrell Royal Texas Longhorns Game-Worn Coach’s Jacket

The Legendary 1973 Cotton Bowl Jacket of Coach Darrell Royal

A Historic Clash of Titans

The 1973 Cotton Bowl remains etched in the annals of collegiate football history as a monumental clash between two coaching legends: Darrell Royal’s Texas Longhorns and Bear Bryant’s Alabama Crimson Tide. This epic contest marked the final encounter between these iconic figures, captivating 70,000 spectators with its dramatic narrative. As the first half concluded, Alabama seemed poised for victory, leading 13-3. However, the tides turned in favor of the Longhorns, culminating in a game-winning drive that would forever be remembered.

A Game-Changing Moment

With just over four minutes remaining, Coach Royal orchestrated a brilliant play—a quarterback bootleg that saw QB Alan Lowry dash 34 yards for a decisive touchdown. The image of Royal, triumphantly carried off the field by his team, clad in his memorable burnt orange button-down jacket, became an indelible symbol of Longhorn pride. This jacket, a testament to that unforgettable day, is now available for discerning collectors and enthusiasts of football memorabilia.

The Jacket’s Unique Provenance

On the sidelines that day stood Jerry Max Lane, a close friend of Coach Royal and a renowned Texas country music singer/songwriter. After the game, Royal gifted the jacket to Lane, a gesture that underscored their enduring friendship. This jacket is not just a piece of clothing; it is a relic of a storied past, rich with historical significance and personal connection.

• Manufacturer’s Tag: The rear neck features a Whiting manufacturer’s tag, size “44,” with the instruction “DRY CLEAN ONLY.”
• Distinctive Embroidery: The left chest bears a white tackle twill helmet with “Coaching Staff” embroidered in burnt orange stitching, accompanied by the team’s “UT” logo.
• Iconic Inscription: The back proudly displays “TEXAS” in white tackle twill, while inside the left pocket, the coach’s name “Royal” is stitched on an orange strip tag in white chain stitching.

A Piece of Football History

This jacket, presented to us as coaches-worn, is a rare and exquisite artifact that shows signs of use, adding to its authenticity and allure. Accompanied by a copy of the Royal LOA, this piece is a must-have for any serious collector of sports memorabilia. Its historical significance is unparalleled, capturing a moment when strategy, skill, and serendipity converged on the field.

For those interested in acquiring this remarkable piece, it represents more than just a collectible; it is a tangible connection to a legendary era of college football. Explore our consignment opportunities or consider having your own items appraised by our experts in sports memorabilia appraisals. This jacket is a testament to the enduring legacy of Coach Darrell Royal and the unforgettable 1973 Cotton Bowl.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.