who is ole miss biggest rival

Breiz Heurope

2 min read

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10-03-2025

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Ole Miss's biggest rival is undoubtedly Mississippi State. The rivalry between these two SEC schools is fierce and deeply rooted in the history and culture of Mississippi. Their annual game, known as the Egg Bowl, is one of the most anticipated and emotionally charged matchups in college football.

The Egg Bowl: A Rivalry Steeped in History

The Egg Bowl isn't just a football game; it's a cultural phenomenon. The trophy awarded to the winner is a golden egg, symbolizing the agricultural heritage of Mississippi. This tradition dates back to 1927, solidifying the intense competition between these in-state rivals.

The rivalry transcends the gridiron. It's a battle for state bragging rights, impacting everything from social gatherings to workplace banter for the entire year. Fans from both sides fiercely defend their team's honor, making game day an electric atmosphere filled with passionate supporters.

Why is Mississippi State Ole Miss's Biggest Rival?

Several factors contribute to the intensity of the Ole Miss-Mississippi State rivalry:

• Geographic Proximity: The two universities are relatively close, fostering a constant sense of competition. This proximity intensifies the rivalry, making every encounter highly significant.

• In-State Battle for Supremacy: Both schools represent the best of Mississippi's college football scene. Winning the Egg Bowl means claiming bragging rights as the top team in the state. The bragging rights extend beyond just football fans to the broader population.

• Historical Significance: The long and storied history of the Egg Bowl, dating back nearly a century, adds significant weight to the rivalry. The accumulation of victories and defeats over the years only fuels the fire for future matchups. The historical narratives surrounding past games and players also add to the passion.

• Consistent Competitiveness: While one team might dominate for a period, the rivalry remains fiercely contested. Neither team consistently outperforms the other, maintaining an unpredictable and exciting competition. The close scores and dramatic finishes in many Egg Bowls only add to the legend.

Beyond the Egg Bowl: Other Notable Rivalries

While Mississippi State holds the top spot, Ole Miss also has other significant rivalries, though none match the intensity and historical weight of the Egg Bowl. These include:

• Arkansas: The rivalry with Arkansas, although not as geographically close, is still meaningful due to their shared SEC West membership and history of close games.

• Auburn: Games against Auburn often hold high stakes within the SEC West standings, generating significant tension and competition.

• LSU: As fellow SEC West opponents, games against LSU are always fiercely contested.

However, none of these rivalries carry the same level of deep-seated animosity and statewide significance as the annual clash with Mississippi State.

Conclusion: The Unwavering Egg Bowl Rivalry

In conclusion, while Ole Miss has other notable rivalries, Mississippi State remains its undisputed biggest rival. The Egg Bowl's unique blend of historical significance, geographic proximity, and intense competition creates a rivalry unlike any other in college football. The golden egg trophy serves as a tangible symbol of the bragging rights at stake, making it a contest that resonates deeply within the hearts and minds of Mississippi residents for an entire year.