NCAA football is one of the largest sporting sensations in North America. It's full of talented players and action-packed matches, but what sets it apart from other collegiate sports is the intense level of rivalry between several teams. In this article, we're going to look at the biggest NCAA rivalries in the history of American football!
Let's dive right into it.
1. The Iron Bowl: Alabama vs. Auburn
One of the most storied and intense rivalries in all of college football, the Iron Bowl between the University of Alabama Crimson Tide and Auburn University Tigers is a clash that redefines passion and raw emotion. The energy permeates everyone, and it's a spectacle like no other.
Both universities have a legacy of noteworthy victories and exceptional performances in the Iron Bowl. The meetings between the two remain to be electrifying and intense, as each team tries its best to assert its dominance not just against the other team but on the national stage as well.
The rivalry has also been instrumental in many players being recognized nationally. The Iron Bowl is the place to prove yourself in you're an athlete from the general area.
In fact, just like how there have been numerous success stories in the NFL and CFL, based out of rivalries (think Joe Theismann, Cameron Wake, Ricky Williams, Doug Flutie, etc.), the Iron Bowl is single-handedly responsible for many team- and player-specific success stories.
From freshman Bo Jackson's 114 rushing yards in 1982 to punt returner Chris Davis blowing past Alabama's defenses in a legendary maneuver now called the "Kick Six,"—College football, in general, has gained a lot with this rivalry.
2. The Red River Showdown: Texas vs. Oklahoma
Deep in the heart of Texas, the ground rumbles, and the air crackles with anticipation as two college football powerhouses collide. The Longhorns and the Sooners lock horns in an annual showdown that grips the nation and sends shivers down the spine.
The fierce rivalry dates back to 1900, and the Cotton Bowl Stadium in Dallas serves as the proving grounds.
The clash between Texas and Oklahoma is more than just a game. It's a meeting of two cultures and brands of gameplay. The rivalry is charged, but the atmosphere is more akin to a carnival than a battle, with the fairgrounds of the Texas State Fair becoming flooded with fans.
There's even a dedicated website for Red River Showdown tickets!
The Michigan-Ohio State Rivalry
The fierce rivalry between Michigan and Ohio State has burned for over a century in the heart of American football. Popularly called "The Game," it's one of the most intense rivalries in college football, loaded with passion, tradition, and above all, a competitive spirit that defines the very fiber of NCAA football.
The Wolverines and Buckeyes first met in 1897. Their shared desire for excellence didn't keep them from forging a rivalry that was built equally on mutual respect. The annual gridiron battle is the highlight of the season for both teams, effectively shaping the very landscape of the Big Ten Conference.
It's a rivalry steeped in history between two geographically close universities, transforming the matches into a bout for regional pride and bragging rights.
The Army-Navy Game: A Historic Showdown
Only a few matchups hold the same significance as the Army-Navy games. The clash between the United States Military Academy (Army) Black Knights and the United States Naval Academy (Navy) Midshipmen is a symbol of service apart from the spirit of competition.
The classic rivalry dates back to 1890—Making it a traditional part of the American football spirit. It's played on neutral ground, often in one of the most iconic venues like Lincoln Financial Field and MetLife Stadium.
The Army-Navy games represent the culmination of years of rigorous training and commitment to duty. There's a deep sense of camaraderie among the cadets and the midshipmen. And the teamwork that develops here goes on to create future military leaders for American soil.
The 2023 Army-Navy game will be played in the Gillette Stadium.
Wrapping Up
There are so many more electric rivalries in college football, like the USC vs. Notre Dame's Battle for the Jeweled Shillelagh, the Sunshine State Showdown between Florida State and Miami, and the old Lone Star Showdown between Texas A&M and Oklahoma—But sadly, we have limited space.
College football is almost synonymous with passionate rivalries. They not only ignite the spirit of competition in the matches but help bring out the best in the athletes and fans alike. These rivalries form the bedrock of the NCAA football landscape—Captivating audiences with their rich history and sheer spectacle.
Any match from these rivalries we mentioned is bound to attract a big crowd and the top numbers in TV viewership. If you're after team previews to check out these games, then our top 104 previews are the go-to resource for all things college football!
