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Egg Bowl rivalry lands on Fox Sports'' list of biggest college football rivalries

Egg Bowl Rivalry Earns Spot on Fox Sports' List of Top College Football Rivalries

In the passionate world of college football, few rivalries capture the raw intensity and deep-seated animosity quite like the Egg Bowl, the annual showdown between the Mississippi State Bulldogs and the Ole Miss Rebels. This storied clash, steeped in over a century of history, has once again been recognized for its significance, landing a prominent spot on Fox Sports' recently compiled list of the biggest college football rivalries. As fans across the Magnolia State gear up for another chapter in this heated battle, the inclusion underscores the Egg Bowl's enduring place in the pantheon of gridiron grudges, blending fierce competition with cultural and regional pride.

The Egg Bowl's origins trace back to 1901, when the two teams first met on the field in what would become one of the oldest rivalries in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Named after the Golden Egg trophy, introduced in 1927 to curb the post-game brawls that often marred the event, the rivalry has evolved into a Thanksgiving tradition that divides families, friends, and entire communities in Mississippi. Unlike some rivalries that span states or conferences, the Egg Bowl is uniquely intra-state, pitting the Bulldogs from Starkville against the Rebels from Oxford in a battle for bragging rights that resonates far beyond the final score. Fox Sports' list highlights this intimacy, noting how the proximity of the two schools—separated by just about 90 miles—fuels a year-round tension that simmers and boils over each November.

What makes the Egg Bowl stand out, according to the Fox Sports ranking, is its combination of historical depth and modern-day drama. The list, which evaluates rivalries based on factors like longevity, competitiveness, memorable moments, and cultural impact, places the Egg Bowl among elite company. It joins iconic matchups such as the Iron Bowl (Alabama vs. Auburn), the Red River Rivalry (Texas vs. Oklahoma), and The Game (Michigan vs. Ohio State). While exact rankings can vary, the Egg Bowl's inclusion speaks to its ability to produce unforgettable spectacles that transcend the sport. Fox Sports analysts point to the rivalry's propensity for upsets, high-stakes plays, and off-field controversies as key reasons for its elevation.

Delving into the history, the series is remarkably balanced, with Ole Miss holding a slight edge in the all-time record, but Mississippi State often rising to the occasion in pivotal moments. The Golden Egg trophy itself is a symbol of the rivalry's quirky yet intense nature. Legend has it that the egg-shaped award was created after a particularly violent 1926 game, where fans clashed in the streets, prompting school officials to introduce a tangible prize to focus the competition. Over the decades, the Egg Bowl has seen its share of legendary figures. From Ole Miss greats like Archie Manning and Eli Manning, who brought national attention to the Rebels, to Mississippi State's bulldog icons like Dak Prescott, whose leadership propelled the team to new heights, the rivalry has been a breeding ground for NFL talent and college lore.

Memorable games abound in Egg Bowl annals, each adding layers to the narrative. Take the 1999 edition, where Mississippi State clinched a dramatic victory in overtime, securing their spot in the SEC Championship Game and etching a place in Bulldogs' history. Or the infamous 2019 clash, marred by a post-touchdown celebration penalty that cost Ole Miss dearly, leading to a missed extra point and a Bulldogs win. That game, dubbed the "Peeing Dog" incident after a Rebels player's ill-advised taunt, exemplifies how the Egg Bowl often veers into the realm of the absurd and the controversial. Fox Sports' list emphasizes these moments, arguing that they elevate the rivalry beyond mere athletics into a cultural phenomenon. The broadcast network, which has increasingly featured SEC games, recognizes the Egg Bowl's appeal to viewers who crave not just football, but the human drama that unfolds on and off the field.

In recent years, the rivalry has taken on new dimensions with the evolving landscape of college football. The advent of the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) era, conference realignments, and the expansion of the College Football Playoff have all influenced how teams like Mississippi State and Ole Miss approach their annual meeting. For the Bulldogs, under coaches like the innovative Mike Leach, who brought an air-raid offense to Starkville before his untimely passing, the Egg Bowl became a showcase for high-scoring affairs. Ole Miss, led by Lane Kiffin, has countered with a blend of speed and strategy, turning games into offensive fireworks. The 2022 Egg Bowl, for instance, saw Ole Miss dominate in a 24-22 thriller, but not without the customary trash talk and intensity that defines the series. Fox Sports notes that these modern iterations keep the rivalry fresh, attracting younger fans while honoring its traditions.

Beyond the field, the Egg Bowl's cultural impact is profound. In Mississippi, where college football is akin to religion, the game splits allegiances in a way few rivalries can match. Tailgates in Starkville feature cowbells ringing through the air—a tradition so iconic that the SEC once tried to ban them—while Oxford's Grove offers a more genteel, yet no less passionate, pre-game atmosphere. The rivalry extends to recruiting battles, where top high school talents from the state often choose sides, further entrenching the divide. Economically, the game boosts local economies, drawing thousands to campuses and generating revenue through merchandise, tickets, and media coverage. Fox Sports' recognition amplifies this, positioning the Egg Bowl as a must-watch event that embodies the spirit of Southern football.

Critics might argue that the Egg Bowl lacks the national championship implications of some other rivalries, but that's precisely what makes it authentic. It's not always about playoff berths; it's about pride, heritage, and settling scores in a state where these two programs represent contrasting identities—Mississippi State's blue-collar grit versus Ole Miss's storied tradition. Fox Sports' list acknowledges this purity, ranking it highly for its unfiltered passion. As one analyst put it, "The Egg Bowl isn't manufactured hype; it's organic rivalry at its finest."

Looking ahead, the Egg Bowl's future seems brighter than ever. With the SEC's expansion and the potential for more primetime slots, games like this could gain even wider audiences. The 2023 matchup, set for Thanksgiving night, promises another chapter of unpredictability. Will Mississippi State reclaim the Golden Egg after recent Ole Miss dominance? Or will the Rebels continue their streak? Regardless of the outcome, the rivalry's spot on Fox Sports' list ensures its legacy endures.

In summing up, the Egg Bowl's inclusion on this prestigious list is a testament to its resilience and relevance. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a highlight of the college football calendar, this rivalry encapsulates everything fans love about the sport: competition, controversy, and community. As Mississippi State and Ole Miss prepare to clash once more, the Golden Egg awaits its next custodian, and the state holds its breath in anticipation. For those who bleed maroon or navy blue, the Egg Bowl isn't just a game—it's a way of life, now rightfully celebrated among the greatest in college football history.

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Read the Full Sports Illustrated Article at:
[ https://www.si.com/college/mississippistate/football/egg-bowl-rivalry-lands-on-fox-sports-list-of-biggest-college-football-rivalries ]