It was but a football game and there are so many.
But this game still claims a piece of El Paso's heart, a source of pride for this old desert border city, a few hours to display the best of times on national television each year.
It will forever remain a bit special for those who play in it, too. This is not a conference championship. This is not the national playoffs. It is just one more football game.
But, even for those playing in it, this can be something to add to the memory bouquet.