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30 Facts About Ole Miss Vs. Mississippi State

Valina Unruh

Written by Valina Unruh

Published: 08 Dec 2025

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Source: Sportingnews.com

Who holds the bragging rights in the fierce rivalry between Ole Miss and Mississippi State? This question has sparked countless debates, heated discussions, and unforgettable moments in college sports history. Known as the Egg Bowl, this annual football game is more than just a match; it's a clash of pride, tradition, and fierce competition. Fans from both sides eagerly await this showdown, each hoping their team will emerge victorious. From thrilling last-minute plays to record-breaking performances, the Ole Miss vs. Mississippi State rivalry never disappoints. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the scene, these 30 facts will give you a deeper appreciation for this storied rivalry.

Table of Contents
01The Rivalry Begins
02Memorable Moments
03Coaches and Players
04Fan Traditions
05Records and Stats
06Impact on Seasons
07Final Whistle

The Rivalry Begins

The Ole Miss vs. Mississippi State rivalry, also known as the Egg Bowl, is one of the most intense in college football. Here are some fascinating facts about this historic matchup.

  1. The first game between Ole Miss and Mississippi State took place in 1901. Ole Miss won 17-0.

  2. The rivalry got its name "Egg Bowl" in 1927. A sportswriter dubbed it so because the trophy resembled an egg.

  3. The Golden Egg Trophy is awarded to the winner. It’s a large, golden football mounted on a wooden base.

  4. The rivalry is the tenth longest uninterrupted series in the United States. They’ve played every year since 1944.

  5. Ole Miss leads the all-time series. As of 2023, they have more wins than Mississippi State.

Memorable Moments

Every rivalry has its unforgettable moments. The Egg Bowl is no exception.

  1. In 1983, the game ended in a 24-23 victory for Mississippi State. A blocked extra point in the final seconds sealed the win.

  2. The 1999 game saw Ole Miss win 20-9, securing their first winning season in five years.

  3. In 2013, Mississippi State won in overtime. A dramatic interception clinched the game.

  4. The 2014 Egg Bowl was a top-20 matchup. Ole Miss won 31-17, spoiling Mississippi State’s playoff hopes.

  5. In 2019, a missed extra point by Ole Miss led to a 21-20 victory for Mississippi State.

Coaches and Players

Coaches and players often become legends in rivalry games. Here are some notable figures from the Egg Bowl.

  1. Johnny Vaught, Ole Miss’s legendary coach, had a 19-2 record against Mississippi State.

  2. Jackie Sherrill, Mississippi State’s coach from 1991-2003, won seven Egg Bowls.

  3. Archie Manning, an Ole Miss quarterback, played in the 1969 and 1970 Egg Bowls. He later became an NFL star.

  4. Dak Prescott, a Mississippi State quarterback, led his team to victory in the 2013 and 2015 Egg Bowls.

  5. Eli Manning, another Ole Miss quarterback, won the 2001 and 2003 Egg Bowls. He also had a successful NFL career.

Fan Traditions

Fans play a huge role in the atmosphere of the Egg Bowl. Their traditions add to the excitement.

  1. Tailgating is a massive part of the Egg Bowl experience. Fans from both sides gather hours before kickoff.

  2. The Grove at Ole Miss is famous for its tailgating scene. It’s considered one of the best in college football.

  3. Cowbells are a staple at Mississippi State games. Fans ring them loudly to support their team.

  4. The Egg Bowl often falls on Thanksgiving weekend. Families gather to watch the game together.

  5. Rivalry week is filled with pranks and banter between fans. It’s all part of the fun.

Records and Stats

Stats and records give a deeper understanding of the rivalry’s history.

  1. The highest-scoring game was in 2017. Mississippi State won 55-20.

  2. The lowest-scoring game was in 1928. Ole Miss won 7-6.

  3. Ole Miss’s longest winning streak in the series is nine games. This streak lasted from 1947 to 1955.

  4. Mississippi State’s longest winning streak is six games. This occurred from 1911 to 1916.

  5. The largest margin of victory was in 1915. Mississippi State won 65-0.

Impact on Seasons

The Egg Bowl often has significant implications for both teams’ seasons.

  1. Winning the Egg Bowl can make a team bowl-eligible. This adds extra pressure to the game.

  2. The game has decided the SEC West champion multiple times. This happened most recently in 2014.

  3. Coaches’ job security can hinge on the Egg Bowl’s outcome. A win can save a coach’s job, while a loss might lead to a firing.

  4. The rivalry impacts recruiting. Winning the Egg Bowl can give a team an edge in attracting top talent.

  5. The Egg Bowl is a source of pride for both schools. Bragging rights last until the next year’s game.

Final Whistle

The Ole Miss vs. Mississippi State rivalry, known as the Egg Bowl, is more than just a game. It’s a clash of traditions, pride, and fierce competition. From the first game in 1901 to the unforgettable moments that have defined this rivalry, the Egg Bowl has captured the hearts of fans across Mississippi. Whether it’s the intense plays, the colorful history, or the passionate fan base, this matchup never disappoints. Each year, the stakes are high, and the excitement is palpable. So, next time you tune in, remember the rich history and the countless stories that make the Egg Bowl a must-watch event. This rivalry isn’t just about football; it’s about community, legacy, and the unbreakable spirit of two great schools.

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