25 Facts About Mississippi State Vs. Arkansas

Mississippi State vs. Arkansas: A Storied Rivalry

The Mississippi State Bulldogs and the Arkansas Razorbacks have a rich history of competition. Their matchups are always intense, filled with memorable moments and thrilling plays. Here are some fascinating facts about this rivalry.

1. First Meeting: The first game between Mississippi State and Arkansas took place in 1916. Arkansas won that initial encounter 20-0.

2. Annual Matchups: Since Arkansas joined the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in 1992, the two teams have faced each other every year.

3. Battle for the Golden Boot: Although the Golden Boot trophy is traditionally contested between Arkansas and LSU, the Mississippi State vs. Arkansas game is still a significant rivalry in the SEC West.

4. Close Contests: Many games between these teams have been decided by a single score, showcasing the competitive nature of their matchups.

5. Stadium Atmosphere: Games held at Davis Wade Stadium in Starkville or Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium in Fayetteville are known for their electric atmospheres.

Memorable Moments and Records

Throughout the years, several games have stood out due to remarkable plays and record-breaking performances.

6. 1999 Thriller: In 1999, Mississippi State won a dramatic overtime game 22-21, which is still remembered as one of the most exciting finishes in the rivalry.

7. Highest Scoring Game: The highest-scoring game between the two teams occurred in 2015, with Mississippi State winning 51-50.

8. Longest Winning Streak: Arkansas holds the longest winning streak in the series, having won six consecutive games from 2009 to 2014.

9. Dak Prescott's Performance: In 2015, Mississippi State quarterback Dak Prescott threw for 508 yards and five touchdowns against Arkansas, setting a school record.

10. Defensive Battles: Not all games are high-scoring affairs. In 2008, Arkansas won a defensive struggle 17-7.

Coaching Legends

Both teams have been led by some legendary coaches who have left their mark on the rivalry.

11. Jackie Sherrill: Mississippi State's Jackie Sherrill coached from 1991 to 2003 and had several memorable battles against Arkansas.

12. Houston Nutt: Houston Nutt coached Arkansas from 1998 to 2007 and later Mississippi State's rival Ole Miss, adding another layer to the rivalry.

13. Dan Mullen: Mississippi State's Dan Mullen (2009-2017) had a successful tenure, including key victories over Arkansas.

14. Bobby Petrino: Arkansas' Bobby Petrino (2008-2011) led the Razorbacks to multiple wins over Mississippi State during his time.

15. Mike Leach: Current Mississippi State coach Mike Leach is known for his high-powered offense, making future matchups with Arkansas intriguing.

Fan Traditions and Culture

The fans of both teams bring unique traditions and a passionate culture to the games.

16. Cowbells: Mississippi State fans are famous for ringing cowbells during games, creating a distinctive and loud atmosphere.

17. Woo Pig Sooie: Arkansas fans chant "Woo Pig Sooie" to rally their team, a tradition that dates back to the 1920s.

18. Tailgating: Tailgating is a major part of the game-day experience for both fan bases, with elaborate setups and delicious Southern food.

19. Homecoming Games: The rivalry game is often chosen as the homecoming game for either school, adding extra significance.

20. Mascots: Mississippi State's Bully the Bulldog and Arkansas' Tusk the Razorback are beloved symbols of their respective schools.

Impact on SEC Standings

The outcome of the Mississippi State vs. Arkansas game often has implications for the SEC standings.

21. Bowl Eligibility: Wins in this game can be crucial for either team to become bowl eligible.

22. Division Rankings: The game can impact the rankings within the SEC West division, affecting potential championship game appearances.

23. Recruiting Battles: Success in this rivalry can influence recruiting, as both teams compete for top high school talent in the region.

24. National Rankings: Victories in this game can boost a team's national ranking, enhancing their profile on the national stage.

25. Historic Upsets: There have been several upsets in the series, where the lower-ranked team has defeated the higher-ranked opponent, shaking up the SEC landscape.

Final Whistle

Mississippi State vs. Arkansas has always been a thrilling matchup. From the intense rivalries to the unforgettable moments, this game never disappoints. Both teams have rich histories, passionate fans, and a knack for delivering edge-of-your-seat action. Whether it's a last-minute touchdown or a game-changing interception, you can always expect the unexpected. The stats, records, and memorable plays all contribute to the excitement surrounding this clash. As fans, we cherish these moments and look forward to many more in the future. So, next time these two teams face off, remember the history, the drama, and the sheer excitement that make this rivalry special. Football isn't just a game; it's a tradition, a passion, and a source of endless entertainment. Here's to many more epic battles on the field!