Jalen Hurts Downplays Texas-Oklahoma Rivalry Compared to Iron Bowl

Jalen Hurts is no stranger to the big stage. During his time with the Alabama Crimson Tide, he was part of some high-tension games, including the Iron Bowl which really tested his mettle and ability to play under pressure.

So, when he was asked about how he was going to handle the pressure of playing in the Red River Showdown between Texas and his new school in Oklahoma, he downplayed the stress, citing that it's not much compared to what he experienced in the Iron Bowl against Auburn.

"I played in the Iron Bowl," said Hurts. "I've played in big games. Think I'll be alright."

This matchup against the Longhorns might be the biggest test Hurts has faced yet as a Sooner, but there's no reason to think that he won't show up to play. He's thrown for 14 touchdowns, 1,523 yards and has posted a ridiculous 231.3 passer rating.

And, it's not like he hasn't performed under pressure in even more intense games. Hurts played the role of hero in the 2018 SEC Championship game, putting up 14 points against Georgia to solidify the Crimson Tide's spot in the College Football Playoff.

It's hard to blame him for thinking that he'll be fine in this rivalry game, especially considering how he's played this year.

But of course, he'll need to back up his talk, and the Longhorns might take some offense to being treated as a second-rate rivalry team. Can't wait to see how things turn out.