College football is a sport steeped in tradition, passion, and heated rivalries. These rivalries are more than just games; they are cultural phenomena that bring communities together and sometimes tear them apart. Here, we dive into some of the most iconic college football rivalries that have stood the test of time.

The Iron Bowl: Alabama vs. Auburn

When you think of college football rivalries, the Iron Bowl is often the first to come to mind. This clash between the University of Alabama Crimson Tide and the Auburn University Tigers is more than just a game—it’s an event that divides the state of Alabama. The intensity of this rivalry is unmatched, with fans often planning their entire year around this single game. Notable moments include the “Kick Six” in 2013, when Auburn’s Chris Davis returned a missed field goal attempt for a touchdown to win the game in the final seconds.

The Game: Ohio State vs. Michigan

Known simply as “The Game,” the annual showdown between Ohio State and Michigan is one of the oldest and most storied rivalries in college football. First played in 1897, this rivalry has seen its fair share of dramatic moments and legendary players. The 10-Year War between coaches Woody Hayes and Bo Schembechler from 1969 to 1978 epitomized the fierce competition and mutual respect between these two programs.

The Red River Showdown: Texas vs. Oklahoma

Held annually at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas during the Texas State Fair, the Red River Showdown between the University of Texas Longhorns and the University of Oklahoma Sooners is a spectacle of color, noise, and raw emotion. The game has produced numerous unforgettable moments, such as the 2008 clash where both teams were ranked in the top five, with Texas emerging victorious in a high-scoring thriller.

The Civil War: Oregon vs. Oregon State

The rivalry between the University of Oregon Ducks and the Oregon State University Beavers, known as the Civil War, is one of the oldest in college football, dating back to 1894. While the teams may not always be national powerhouses, the passion and intensity of this rivalry are second to none in the Pacific Northwest. The game often serves as a barometer for bragging rights in the state of Oregon.

The Egg Bowl: Ole Miss vs. Mississippi State

The Egg Bowl, featuring the University of Mississippi Rebels and the Mississippi State University Bulldogs, is another fierce in-state rivalry. The game’s trophy, a golden egg, symbolizes the importance of this matchup to both schools. The rivalry has produced many memorable games, including the 1999 “Pick and Kick” game, where Ole Miss blocked a game-winning field goal attempt to secure a dramatic victory.

Army vs. Navy

No list of college football rivalries would be complete without mentioning the Army-Navy game. This annual clash between the United States Military Academy (Army) and the United States Naval Academy (Navy) is a celebration of tradition and honor. Played on the second Saturday in December, this game is more than just a football contest—it’s a showcase of the dedication and spirit of America’s service academies.

The Backyard Brawl: Pittsburgh vs. West Virginia

The Backyard Brawl between the University of Pittsburgh Panthers and the West Virginia University Mountaineers is a fierce rivalry fueled by geographical proximity and cultural differences. First played in 1895, the game has seen its fair share of upsets and thrilling finishes. The 2007 game, where an unranked Pitt team defeated second-ranked West Virginia, remains one of the most shocking upsets in college football history.

The Sunshine Showdown: Florida vs. Florida State

The Sunshine Showdown between the University of Florida Gators and the Florida State University Seminoles is one of the most intense rivalries in college football. Both teams have been national powerhouses, and their annual clash often has implications for conference championships and bowl game berths. The rivalry reached its peak in the 1990s when both teams were consistently ranked in the top 10.

The Border War: Kansas vs. Missouri

The Border War, also known as the Border Showdown, between the University of Kansas Jayhawks and the University of Missouri Tigers is one of the oldest and most bitter rivalries in college sports. The rivalry dates back to 1891 and is fueled by historical tensions stemming from the Civil War. Although the rivalry has been less prominent in recent years due to conference realignment, the games are still fiercely contested when played.

The Holy War: BYU vs. Utah

The Holy War between Brigham Young University (BYU) and the University of Utah is a rivalry characterized by its religious and cultural undertones. The two schools, located just 50 miles apart in Utah, have a long history of competition in various sports, but the football matchup is the most anticipated. The rivalry has produced many memorable moments and continues to be a highlight of the college football season in the Mountain West.

The Duel in the Desert: Arizona vs. Arizona State

The Duel in the Desert between the University of Arizona Wildcats and the Arizona State University Sun Devils is a heated rivalry that divides the state of Arizona. The winner of this annual game takes home the Territorial Cup, the oldest trophy for a rivalry game in college football. The games are often closely contested and have a significant impact on recruiting and bragging rights within the state.

The Big Game: Stanford vs. California

The Big Game between Stanford University and the University of California, Berkeley (Cal) is one of the most storied rivalries in college football. The game is famous for “The Play,” a last-second, multi-lateral kickoff return by Cal to win the 1982 game. The rivalry, which dates back to 1892, is a celebration of Northern California football and features the coveted Stanford Axe trophy.

The Palmetto Bowl: Clemson vs. South Carolina

The Palmetto Bowl between Clemson University and the University of South Carolina is the premier college football rivalry in the state of South Carolina. The game has been played annually since 1909 and often features high stakes for both teams. The rivalry intensified in recent years as both programs have enjoyed periods of national prominence, adding more fuel to the fire.

The Bedlam Series: Oklahoma vs. Oklahoma State

The Bedlam Series between the University of Oklahoma Sooners and the Oklahoma State University Cowboys is a rivalry that dates back to 1904. While Oklahoma has traditionally dominated the series, the games are often competitive and filled with high-scoring action. The rivalry is a major event in the state of Oklahoma and has significant implications for the Big 12 Conference standings.

The Lone Star Showdown: Texas vs. Texas A&M

The Lone Star Showdown between the University of Texas Longhorns and the Texas A&M University Aggies is a rivalry steeped in tradition and animosity. The rivalry, which dates back to 1894, was put on hold in 2011 when Texas A&M moved to the Southeastern Conference (SEC). However, the games were always highly anticipated and featured memorable moments and intense competition.

Conclusion

College football rivalries are the lifeblood of the sport, providing unforgettable moments and lifelong memories for fans and players alike. Whether it’s the Iron Bowl’s high stakes, the historical significance of The Game, or the pageantry of the Army-Navy matchup, these rivalries capture the essence of what makes college football special. So, next time you tune in to a rivalry game, remember that you’re witnessing more than just a contest—you’re experiencing a piece of sports history.

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