There’s nothing quite like a college football rivalry to get the fans excited. Rivalry games are about more than just football — they’re about pride, history, and just straight-up bragging rights. Whether it’s between neighbors going head-to-head or two powerhouse programs that just can’t stand each other, rivalries bring out the best and worst in both teams and fans. Let’s get into some of the biggest college football duels.
Army Black Knights vs. Navy Midshipmen
The first game was November 29th, 1890, and it has been over 130 years since the first game between the Army and Navy. To give a little perspective of how long that is; earlier that same year, Wyoming and Idaho were admitted as 43rd and 44th states. At the time of their first meeting, the Navy had been playing as a team since 1879 and the Army had never played an organized game before. Even though there was a home-field advantage for the Army, due to their lack of experience, the Navy won 24-0.
Oklahoma Sooners vs. Texas Longhorns
The first game between these two teams was played in 1900 when Oklahoma was still a territory. It was originally called the Red River Shootout until the 100th game, in 2005, sponsored by SBC Communications and the name was changed to the SBC Red River Rivalry/Showdown. Sponsors have changed a few times, as has the name, but as of 2023, it is the Allstate Red River Rivalry. The Red River Showdown is also applied to any other meetings between the schools in other sports as well.
Michigan Wolverines vs. Ohio State Buckeyes
Referred to as “The Game” by fans and commentators alike, this is an annual game that started on October 16, 1897. Since then they have had a total of 119 meetings. On odd-numbered years they play in Ann Arbor, Michigan and on even-numbered years they play in Columbus, Ohio. Currently Michigan leads 61-51-6 and they hold the longest win streak of nine. They also held the largest victory of 86-0 back in 1902. The Wolverines are currently on a win streak of three from 2021 to now and we get to see if that continues on November 30, 2024, which is when their next meeting is.
Alabama Crimson Tide vs. Auburn Tigers
Known as the Iron Bowl, this is one of the most, if not the most, heated and anticipated matchups each year. This rivalry started in 1893 and was played at Legion Field in Birmingham, Alabama. In the early 20th Century, Birmingham was the leading industrial city in the South, even rivaling Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. They produced pig iron, coke (fuel), coal, and manufactured steel. This is where the name “Iron Bowl” came from. Coach Ralph “Shrug” Jordan of Auburn was actually the first to use it. The two teams have met a total of 88 times, Alabama leads 50-37-1 and they hold both the largest victory (55-0, 1948) and the longest win streak (9, 1973-1981). Alabama also holds the current win streak of 4, 2020-Present. The next time the two teams will meet will be on November 30, 2024.
From the centuries-long Army-Navy rivalry to the intensity of the Iron Bowl, each rivalry has its own unique story that has shaped the sport. These games bring out unmatched passion from both players and fans alike, giving us a reminder of why college football is so special. As these teams continue to each year, the rivalries will only grow stronger, keeping the excitement alive and leaving a mark on the sport.
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