Who has the edge in the Arkansas vs. Ole Miss rivalry? This question sparks heated debates among fans of both teams. Arkansas and Ole Miss have a storied history filled with thrilling games, unforgettable moments, and fierce competition. From their first meeting in 1908 to their latest clash, each game adds another chapter to this intense rivalry. Whether you're a die-hard Razorbacks supporter or a loyal Rebels fan, understanding the key facts about this matchup can enhance your appreciation of the game. Let's dive into 30 fascinating facts that highlight the highs, lows, and everything in between of the Arkansas vs. Ole Miss rivalry.
Arkansas vs. Ole Miss: A Historic Rivalry
The rivalry between Arkansas and Ole Miss is one of the most exciting in college football. With a history spanning decades, these two teams have given fans countless memorable moments. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this intense matchup.
-
The first game between Arkansas and Ole Miss took place in 1908. Arkansas won 33-0.
-
This rivalry is known as the "Battle for the Golden Egg," a trophy introduced in 1927 to reduce post-game violence.
-
Ole Miss leads the all-time series, but the margin is narrow, making each game crucial.
-
The 2001 game is famous for being the longest in NCAA history, lasting seven overtimes. Arkansas won 58-56.
-
Both teams are part of the Southeastern Conference (SEC), adding extra intensity to their matchups.
Memorable Moments and Players
Over the years, many players have left their mark on this rivalry. Some performances are still talked about today.
-
Eli Manning, a future NFL star, threw for 414 yards and two touchdowns in the 2002 game, leading Ole Miss to victory.
-
Darren McFadden, a two-time Heisman Trophy runner-up, rushed for 195 yards and two touchdowns in the 2007 game, helping Arkansas win.
-
In 2015, Arkansas won in overtime after a miraculous lateral play on 4th and 25, known as the "Hunter Heave."
-
The 1960 game saw Ole Miss shut out Arkansas 10-0, part of an undefeated season for the Rebels.
-
In 1999, Arkansas' Clint Stoerner threw for 387 yards and five touchdowns, setting a school record.
Coaching Legends
Coaches play a significant role in shaping the rivalry. Some have become legends due to their success in these games.
-
Frank Broyles, Arkansas' head coach from 1958 to 1976, won seven Southwest Conference titles and had a 10-3 record against Ole Miss.
-
Johnny Vaught, Ole Miss' head coach from 1947 to 1970, is considered one of the greatest, with a 6-6 record against Arkansas.
-
Houston Nutt, who coached both teams, led Arkansas from 1998 to 2007 and Ole Miss from 2008 to 2011.
-
Bobby Petrino, Arkansas' head coach from 2008 to 2011, had a 3-1 record against Ole Miss.
-
Hugh Freeze, Ole Miss' head coach from 2012 to 2016, won three out of five games against Arkansas.
Stadium Atmosphere
The atmosphere at these games is electric, with fans from both sides showing immense passion.
-
Arkansas' home games are played at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium, which seats over 76,000 fans.
-
Ole Miss hosts games at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium, with a capacity of over 64,000.
-
The "Hog Call" is a unique cheer performed by Arkansas fans, creating an intimidating environment.
-
Ole Miss fans are known for their "Hotty Toddy" chant, a tradition that dates back to the 1920s.
-
Tailgating is a huge part of the experience, with The Grove at Ole Miss being one of the most famous tailgating spots in college football.
Records and Achievements
Both teams have impressive records and achievements, adding to the prestige of this rivalry.
-
Arkansas has won 13 conference championships, including one SEC title in 1995.
-
Ole Miss has claimed six SEC titles, with their last coming in 1963.
-
Arkansas has produced 24 consensus All-Americans, while Ole Miss has 13.
-
Both teams have multiple players in the College Football Hall of Fame, including Archie Manning from Ole Miss and Lance Alworth from Arkansas.
-
Arkansas has appeared in 43 bowl games, winning 16, while Ole Miss has 38 bowl appearances with 24 wins.
Recent Developments
The rivalry continues to evolve, with recent games adding new chapters to its storied history.
-
In 2020, Ole Miss won a high-scoring game 33-21, with quarterback Matt Corral throwing for 412 yards.
-
Arkansas' KJ Jefferson had a breakout performance in the 2021 game, throwing for 326 yards and three touchdowns.
-
The 2022 game saw Ole Miss win 31-28, with a last-minute field goal sealing the victory.
-
Both teams have new head coaches, with Sam Pittman at Arkansas and Lane Kiffin at Ole Miss, bringing fresh energy to the rivalry.
-
The future looks bright for both programs, with strong recruiting classes and ambitious goals for the coming seasons.
The Final Whistle
Arkansas vs. Ole Miss isn't just a game; it's a clash of history, pride, and fierce competition. From the first kickoff to the final touchdown, these teams have given fans countless unforgettable moments. Whether you're a Razorback or a Rebel, the passion runs deep. The stats, the records, and the legendary plays all contribute to a rivalry that keeps everyone on the edge of their seats.
Remember, it's not just about who wins or loses. It's about the spirit of the game, the camaraderie among fans, and the traditions that make college football so special. So next time these two teams face off, you'll know a bit more about what makes this matchup so electrifying. Grab your gear, cheer loud, and enjoy every moment of this storied rivalry. Football season wouldn't be the same without it!
Was this page helpful?
Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.