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Bayou Bucket 2017

H-E-B Assumes Title Sponsorship of Bayou Bucket

9/5/2021 3:00:00 PM | Football

Houston, Rice renew rivalry Saturday

HOUSTON – The University of Houston, Rice University and LEARFIELD Sports Properties have jointly announced H-E-B will assume title sponsorship of the Bayou Bucket Classic. This longtime football matchup features cross-town rivals Cougars and Owls on the gridiron.
 
"Like all Texans, we at H-E-B live for football season.  As such, we're excited to add our name to this annual matchup of Houston's two signature universities," H-E-B Houston Director of Marketing, Joe Casiano said. "We hope that the Bayou Bucket Classic presented by H-E-B is enjoyed by college football fans for years to come."
 
Despite being the two FBS schools in closest proximity to one another, Rice and Houston only first met in football in 1971 at Rice Stadium. Three years later, The Touchdown Club of Houston introduced the distinctive Bayou Bucket trophy to present to the winner. 
 
The 40th edition of the game, the first to be called the "Bayou Bucket Classic presented by H-E-B," will be played on September 11 at Rice Stadium. Kickoff is set for 5:30 p.m. and the game will be televised nationally by CBS Sports Network. 
 
"We are excited to partner with an iconic brand in the state of Texas for this year's Bayou Bucket. H-E-B is synonymous with quality, service, and the indomitable spirit of our state," Rice Director of Athletics, Recreation and Lifetime Fitness, Joe Karlgaard stated. "I look forward to a terrific matchup next Saturday at Rice Stadium."
 
"We're pleased to have a great Texas-based provider in H-E-B put its support behind the Bayou Bucket," Houston Vice President for Athletics, Chris Pezman said. "This game has deep meaning for both fan bases as well as the City of Houston, and H-E-B ."
 
About H-E-B
H-E-B, with sales of over $31 billion, operates more than 400 stores in Texas and Mexico. For more than 115 years, H-E-B has been known for its innovation and community service. Recognized for its fresh food, quality products, convenient services, and a commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability, H-E-B strives to provide the best customer experience and lowest prices. Based in San Antonio, H-E-B employs over 135,000 Partners in Texas and Mexico and serves millions of customers in more than 300 communities. For more information, visit HEB.com and HEB.com/Newsroom.