College football’s unmatched passion stems largely from its intense rivalries, captivating millions every season. With over 250 NCAA Division I teams in action each year, several legendary matchups have defined the sport’s legacy.
One of the most iconic rivalries is the Army-Navy game, which features more than 120 meetings deeply rooted in patriotic tradition. These heated contests are more than just games; they shape college football’s culture and keep fans coming back for more.
College Football’s Top 10 Rivalries That Ignite Passion and Pride
College football’s most intense rivalries are built on history, tradition, and unforgettable moments. These matchups stir emotions, unite fanbases, and often decide conference titles or playoff berths. Here are ten legendary rivalries that continue to define the sport.
1. “The Game” (Michigan vs. Ohio State)
Known as “The Game,” this rivalry is one of the fiercest in American sports. Since their first meeting on October 16, 1897, when Michigan won 34-0, the Wolverines have maintained a narrow series lead at 62-51-6. One of the rivalry’s defining moments occurred in 1968 when Ohio State, ahead 50-14, attempted a controversial two-point conversion.
2. “The Iron Bowl” (Alabama vs. Auburn)
This heated in-state battle, known as the Iron Bowl, is a staple of Alabama football. The rivalry began on February 22, 1893, when Auburn claimed a 32-22 victory. Alabama leads the series 51-37-1.
The Crimson Tide once dominated with a nine-game winning streak from 1973 to 1981. Currently, Alabama holds a five-game win streak from 2020 to 2024, adding to the rivalry’s ongoing intensity.
3. Army vs. Navy
The Army-Navy Game is more than just football—it’s a symbol of tradition and patriotism. This rivalry started on November 29, 1890, when Navy triumphed 24-0. While Navy leads the series at 63-55-7, Army’s recent resurgence has added fresh excitement.
Navy once dominated with a 14-game win streak from 2002 to 2015, while they currently hold a one-game win streak after their 2024 victory.
4. Notre Dame vs. USC
This cross-country rivalry pits two historic programs against each other. The teams first met on December 4, 1926, with Notre Dame narrowly winning 13-12. The Fighting Irish lead the series 52-38-5. One memorable chapter saw Notre Dame win 11 consecutive games from 1983 to 1993.
5. Florida State vs. Miami (FL)
This rivalry ignites Florida’s football landscape, with just 150 miles separating the two schools. Since their first matchup on November 22, 1958, Florida has maintained a 38-28-2 series lead. Florida’s most dominant period came with a nine-game winning streak from 1968 to 1976, while they currently hold a one-game win streak after their 2024 victory.
6. “The Victory Bell” (UCLA vs. USC)
The battle for Los Angeles began on September 28, 1929, when USC crushed UCLA 76-0. The Trojans hold a commanding series lead at 51-34-7. UCLA’s best stretch was an eight-game win streak from 1991 to 1998. USC’s most recent victory in 2024 maintains their one-game streak.
7. “World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party” (Florida vs. Georgia)
This rivalry is famously contested in Jacksonville, often called the “World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party.”
While both programs dispute the total meeting count, Georgia leads 55-44-2 by Florida’s record (or 56-44-2 by Georgia’s account). The rivalry’s longest streaks include Florida’s seven-game run from 1990 to 1996 and Georgia’s ongoing four-game streak from 2021 to 2024.
8. “The Civil War” (Oregon vs. Oregon State)
This Oregon-based rivalry is one of the sport’s oldest. In 1983, the two teams played to a scoreless tie in what’s often dubbed one of the dullest games in history.
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Despite moments like that, the rivalry has had its share of thrilling moments. Oregon leads the series at 67-49-10.
9. “Red River Rivalry” (Oklahoma vs. Texas)
An annual showdown between Oklahoma and Texas, this matchup is a staple of college football. The rivalry began in 1900, with Texas winning 28-2. Texas leads the overall series 64-51-5.
10. “The Egg Bowl” (Ole Miss vs. Mississippi State)
This in-state clash began in 1901, with Mississippi State winning 17-0. However, Ole Miss holds the series lead at 65-46-6. The rivalry’s intensity is reflected in memorable moments, including a heated 2018 clash that resulted in several players being ejected.
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