Who has the edge when South Carolina faces Ole Miss? This question sparks heated debates among fans. Both teams have rich histories, passionate supporters, and unique strengths. South Carolina, known for its tenacious defense, often surprises opponents with its resilience. Ole Miss, on the other hand, boasts a high-octane offense that can light up the scoreboard. Key players from both sides bring their A-game, making each encounter thrilling. From legendary coaches to unforgettable games, the rivalry has countless stories. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to college football, understanding these 25 facts will give you a deeper appreciation of this epic showdown.
South Carolina vs. Ole Miss: A Historic Rivalry
The South Carolina Gamecocks and the Ole Miss Rebels have a storied history in college sports. Their matchups are always highly anticipated, filled with excitement, and often unpredictable outcomes. Here are some fascinating facts about this rivalry.
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The first football game between South Carolina and Ole Miss took place in 1947. Ole Miss won that initial encounter 21-6.
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South Carolina and Ole Miss have faced each other 16 times in football as of 2023. The Rebels lead the series with 9 wins to the Gamecocks' 7.
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The largest margin of victory in this rivalry occurred in 1974 when Ole Miss defeated South Carolina 41-0.
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South Carolina's longest winning streak against Ole Miss is three games, achieved from 2004 to 2009.
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Ole Miss's longest winning streak against South Carolina is four games, from 1974 to 1981.
Memorable Moments and Players
Every rivalry has its standout moments and players who leave a lasting impact. Here are some highlights from the South Carolina vs. Ole Miss matchups.
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In 2009, South Carolina upset then-No. 4 Ole Miss 16-10 in a thrilling game that saw the Gamecocks' defense dominate.
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Legendary Ole Miss quarterback Archie Manning played against South Carolina in 1969, leading the Rebels to a 27-21 victory.
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South Carolina's standout running back Marcus Lattimore had a memorable game against Ole Miss in 2010, rushing for 129 yards and two touchdowns.
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Ole Miss wide receiver A.J. Brown had a standout performance in 2018, recording 132 receiving yards and a touchdown against South Carolina.
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In 2020, South Carolina's Shi Smith had a career-high 117 receiving yards and a touchdown in a close game against Ole Miss.
Coaching Legends
Coaches play a crucial role in shaping the outcomes of these intense matchups. Here are some notable coaches from both teams.
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Steve Spurrier, the legendary South Carolina coach, led the Gamecocks to a victory over Ole Miss in 2009.
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Johnny Vaught, a Hall of Fame coach for Ole Miss, guided the Rebels to multiple victories over South Carolina during his tenure.
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Lou Holtz, another iconic South Carolina coach, faced Ole Miss twice during his time with the Gamecocks, winning both games.
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Hugh Freeze, former Ole Miss head coach, led the Rebels to a victory over South Carolina in 2018.
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Will Muschamp, who coached South Carolina from 2016 to 2020, had a 1-1 record against Ole Miss.
Basketball Showdowns
The rivalry extends beyond the football field. South Carolina and Ole Miss also have a competitive history in basketball.
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The first basketball game between South Carolina and Ole Miss took place in 1928, with Ole Miss winning 29-16.
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South Carolina and Ole Miss have faced each other over 50 times in basketball, with the Gamecocks leading the series.
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In 2017, South Carolina's men's basketball team made a historic run to the Final Four, defeating Ole Miss twice during the regular season.
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Ole Miss's women's basketball team has had notable success against South Carolina, including a thrilling overtime victory in 2016.
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South Carolina's women's basketball team, under coach Dawn Staley, has become a powerhouse, consistently defeating Ole Miss in recent years.
Other Sports Rivalries
The competition between South Carolina and Ole Miss isn't limited to football and basketball. They also clash in other sports.
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In baseball, South Carolina and Ole Miss have a heated rivalry, with both teams frequently ranked among the top in the nation.
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The two schools have a competitive history in women's soccer, with both teams often vying for top spots in the SEC.
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South Carolina and Ole Miss also compete fiercely in track and field, with athletes from both schools regularly qualifying for national championships.
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In tennis, South Carolina and Ole Miss have a long-standing rivalry, with both men's and women's teams often facing off in crucial SEC matches.
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The rivalry extends to golf, where South Carolina and Ole Miss golfers frequently compete in SEC tournaments and national championships.
Final Thoughts on South Carolina vs. Ole Miss
South Carolina and Ole Miss have a rich history filled with memorable moments and fierce competition. From their first meeting in 1947 to their most recent clashes, these teams have shown grit and determination. South Carolina's strong defense often clashes with Ole Miss's high-powered offense, making for exciting games. Both schools boast passionate fan bases that create electric atmospheres on game day. Whether you're a Gamecocks or Rebels fan, you can appreciate the dedication and spirit each team brings to the field. This rivalry isn't just about football; it's about tradition, pride, and the love of the game. So next time these two teams face off, you'll know a bit more about what makes this matchup special. Enjoy the game, and may the best team win!
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