College football rivalry weekend is set to commence on Friday, bringing a thrilling end to the regular season. As schools gear up to face their fiercest rivals, fans can expect intense matchups filled with historical significance. Highlighted below are the details surrounding seven key rivalry games on the schedule.
Starting with the Egg Bowl, Mississippi will clash with Mississippi State at noon. This rivalry dates back to 1926, when Ole Miss broke a 13-game losing streak by narrowly defeating Mississippi A&M 7-6. The aftermath of that game saw Ole Miss fans celebrating on the field, provoking the ire of Bulldog supporters. To prevent future brawls, both teams agreed to a traveling trophy, which is a golden egg awarded to the winner.
Next, Iowa will take on Nebraska at noon as well. Although this rivalry may not carry the same weight as others on the weekend, it has a long history that dates back to 1891. The two teams have met frequently throughout the years, especially since their recent matchup has become a staple of the final regular season weekend.
At 3:00 PM, Air Force will face off against Colorado State. This rivalry began when the Air Force Academy launched its football program in 1957, culminating in a loss to Colorado State. Since then, Air Force has dominated the rivalry, leading the series with 39 wins compared to 22 losses and one tie. The winner of this annual battle receives the Ram-Falcon Trophy, a wooden sculpture symbolizing their competition since 1980.
Later on Friday, at 3:30 PM, Georgia will meet Georgia Tech. This Peach State rivalry is noted for its intensity, with fan animosity reaching historic levels, as captured in the phrase “Clean, Old-Fashioned Hate.” When these two teams square off in Atlanta, expect the atmosphere to be charged with tension, especially as both enter the game ranked in the Top 25.
At 7:30 PM, Indiana will take on Purdue for the 127th time. Indiana is entering this game ranked second, a notable achievement for the Hoosiers in this rivalry. Purdue aims to spoil Indiana”s perfect season after suffering a heavy loss in the previous year”s matchup, where they were defeated 66-0.
Another significant game at 7:30 PM will see Texas A&M go against Texas. This rivalry is so cherished in Texas that it prompted legislative action to ensure the game is played annually. With Texas joining Texas A&M in the SEC, the Lone Star Showdown was rekindled last year, marking its first Thanksgiving Weekend meeting since 2011.
Finally, the night will conclude with the Duel in the Desert, featuring Arizona facing Arizona State at 9:00 PM. This rivalry has roots tracing back to 1899, when Arizona was still a territory. The Territorial Cup, awarded to the winner, has become a symbol of this fierce competition.
As college football fans eagerly anticipate these matchups, the historic significance and passionate rivalries promise an exhilarating weekend ahead.
