The Storied History of College Football Rivalries and Fights

College football rivalries are deeply embedded in the sport's fabric, often carrying a rich history intertwined with wars, brawls, land disputes, and even politics. These rivalries, both in-conference and out-of-conference, contribute significantly to the excitement and tradition of college football. The annual matchups often hold immense importance, with fans and teams alike placing great value on securing a victory against their rivals.

Origins and Evolution of Rivalries

Many college football rivalries have unique origin stories that reflect historical events or specific incidents between the institutions involved. These stories often contribute to the intensity and passion associated with the games.

The Egg Bowl: Ole Miss vs. Mississippi State

The "Egg Bowl" between Ole Miss and Mississippi State is one such rivalry with a memorable origin. In 1926, after Ole Miss secured a 7-6 victory over Mississippi A&M in Starkville, Ole Miss fans rushed the field and took down the goalposts. In retaliation, Mississippi A&M fans fought back with wooden folding chairs, leading to a melee. To prevent future brawls, a trophy called the "Golden Egg" was introduced in 1927, and the rivalry officially became known as the "Battle for the Golden Egg." In 1978, the Clarion Ledger dubbed the game "The Egg Bowl."

Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate: Georgia vs. Georgia Tech

The rivalry between Georgia and Georgia Tech, known as "Clean, Old-fashioned Hate," dates back to 1893. The animosity between the two schools was evident from the beginning, with accusations of poor sportsmanship fueling the rivalry. The insults intensified after Georgia Tech's train collided with a freight train, leading to the "Ramblin' Wrecks" nickname. The rivalry's name originated in 1977 with the publication of Bill Cromartie's book, "Clean, Old-fashioned Hate," detailing the history between the two institutions.

The Iron Bowl: Alabama vs. Auburn

The "Iron Bowl" between Alabama and Auburn is named after Birmingham, Alabama, a leading industrial city known for its coal and iron production. The game originally took place at a neutral site in Birmingham. In 1964, Auburn coach Ralph Jordan famously stated, "We've got our bowl game. We have it every year. It's the Iron Bowl in Birmingham," highlighting the significance of the rivalry.

The Game: Ohio State vs. Michigan

"The Game" between Ohio State and Michigan is a rivalry with a simple yet powerful name. The intensity between the two teams is palpable, with Ohio State often crossing out the letter "M" to express their dislike for Michigan. The rivalry dates back to 1897, and while there isn't a specific origin time for the name "The Game," the deep-seated animosity has made it one of the most significant matchups in college football. The 2024 edition of Ohio State-Michigan brought high tension and short tempers after the Wolverines tried to plant their flag in the center of Buckeye Stadium, causing a huge postgame brawl after Michigan's 13-10 upset of No. 6 Ohio State.

The Border War: Kansas vs. Missouri

The "Border War" between Kansas and Missouri is a rivalry rooted in the conflicts over slavery in the 1850s. The violence and guerrilla warfare between citizens of Kansas and Missouri shaped the rivalry. The Lawrence Massacre, led by William Quantrill, was a defining moment in the border war, further intensifying the animosity between the two states.

Brawl of the Wild: Montana vs. Montana State

The Montana and Montana State football rivalry, known as "The Brawl of the Wild," is the fourth-oldest rivalry in the FCS. The rivalry has immense history throughout the series. In 1986 marked the first game in the rivalry in the new Washington-Grizzly Stadium. It also marked the first game against Montana State for Grizzlies coach Don Read. In a game of firsts, Montana dominated putting up 59 points in the win. Montana State’s losing streak to Montana ended at 16 games in 2002. The 2025 marked the first time that Montana and Montana State would meet in the FCS playoffs in the storied rivalry's history.

Notable Incidents and Turning Points

Throughout the history of college football rivalries, there have been numerous incidents and turning points that have further fueled the passion and intensity surrounding these games.

The Brawl on the Brazos: Texas A&M vs. Baylor

In 1926, a brawl between Texas A&M and Baylor fans resulted in a five-year freeze in the series. During a halftime celebration at Baylor's homecoming game, a flatbed truck carrying female Baylor students with signs displaying Baylor's previous victories was rushed by Texas A&M Corps of Cadets members. The incident escalated into a riot, with fans using chairs and wooden planks as weapons. An A&M fan, Charles M. Sessums, suffered a fractured skull and died the next morning. The two teams did not play again until 1931.

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Colorado State vs. Wyoming: A brawl over officiating

The two border rivals met for the first time in 1899 in Laramie, Wyo. The game ended in a Wyoming forfeit after Colorado State’s official ruled that Wyoming official refused to abide by the rules of the game. According to CSU historian John Hirn, the Wyoming crowd stormed the field during the game and cursed at House and CSU, waving canes and reportedly shouting “Kill the whole outfit! Mob them right here!” As Colorado State left the field following the forfeit ruling, Wyoming’s players to run for a touchdown on the now-vacated field, which would have given Wyoming the lead and victory. That ignited a brawl. Colorado State’s quarterback was even struck in the head by a cane.

Clemson-South Carolina: Controversy over Clemson's founding

South Carolina College was founded in 1801, but for much of the next century, there was debate about whether a separate state agricultural school should be established. Clemson was founded in 1889 and a year later, Tillman won an election to become governor of the state. The controversy that surrounded Clemson’s birth was more than enough to spawn a heated rivalry between the two schools since 1896 that has persisted despite the two never sharing a conference. In 2004, the two sides engaged in an ugly brawl with just under six minutes to play. Both teams banned themselves from bowl eligibility and handed out suspensions that carried over to the 2005 season.

The Toledo War: Michigan vs. Ohio State

The rivalry between Michigan and Ohio State is also rooted in a historical land dispute known as the Toledo War. In 1835, Michigan applied for statehood, including the Toledo Strip, which was also claimed by Ohio. The dispute led to legal conflicts and the formation of militias. Congress eventually proposed that Michigan give up the Toledo Strip to Ohio in exchange for statehood and ownership of the Upper Peninsula. This dispute created a lasting tension between the two states, which carried over into their football rivalry.

Rivalries in the Modern Era

Today, college football rivalries continue to be a vital part of the sport, with many games holding significant national attention. These rivalries often have a major impact on recruiting, conference standings, and bowl game eligibility.

Army vs. Navy

The Army-Navy game is one of the most cherished traditions in college football. Representing the United States Military Academy and the United States Naval Academy, the two teams play annually in a game that transcends the sport. The game is typically held at a neutral site and is known for its pageantry and patriotic displays.

Red River Showdown: Oklahoma vs. Texas

The "Red River Showdown" between Oklahoma and Texas is played annually at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, during the State Fair of Texas. The game is known for its intense atmosphere and the passion of the fans from both sides. With both Oklahoma and Texas joining the SEC in 2024, the rivalry has gained even more prominence.

Notre Dame vs. USC

The rivalry between Notre Dame and USC is a classic intersectional matchup that features two of college football's most iconic programs. The game is played annually, alternating between Notre Dame Stadium and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. The rivalry has produced many memorable moments, including the "Bush Push" game in 2005.

Florida vs. Georgia

The Florida-Georgia game is another prominent SEC rivalry that is played annually at a neutral site in Jacksonville, Florida. The game is known as the "World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party" due to the large number of fans who gather in Jacksonville for the game and the associated tailgating festivities.

Conference Realignment and its Impact on Rivalries

Conference realignment has had a significant impact on college football rivalries in recent years. As teams have moved between conferences, some traditional rivalries have been disrupted, while others have been renewed.

The End of Bedlam: Oklahoma vs. Oklahoma State

The rivalry between Oklahoma and Oklahoma State, known as "Bedlam," faces an uncertain future due to Oklahoma's move to the SEC. With the two teams no longer in the same conference, the annual game may no longer be guaranteed.

The Renewal of Texas vs. Texas A&M

Texas's move to the SEC has renewed the rivalry with Texas A&M, which had been dormant for several years. The two teams played for the first time in 13 years in 2024, reigniting one of the most passionate rivalries in the state of Texas.

The Fate of Oregon vs. Oregon State

Oregon's departure from the Pac-12 to join the Big Ten has raised questions about the future of the rivalry with Oregon State. Despite the conference separation, the two schools have agreed to continue playing each other for at least two more seasons.

The Importance of Rivalries in College Football

College football rivalries are more than just games; they are cultural events that bring together communities and create lasting memories. These rivalries contribute to the identity of the schools involved and provide a unique sense of tradition and history. The passion and intensity surrounding these games make college football one of the most exciting and compelling sports in the world.

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