40 Facts About Marshall Vs. Middle Tennessee

Marshall vs. Middle Tennessee: A Storied Rivalry

Marshall University and Middle Tennessee State University have a rivalry that has captivated fans for years. From thrilling games to unforgettable moments, this matchup has it all. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this rivalry.

Historical Background

Understanding the history behind these two teams adds depth to their rivalry. Here are some key historical points.

1. First Meeting: The first game between Marshall and Middle Tennessee took place on October 5, 1991. Marshall won 35-21.
2. Conference USA: Both teams are members of Conference USA, which has intensified their rivalry over the years.
3. Frequent Matchups: Since joining the same conference, these teams have faced each other almost every year, making their encounters highly anticipated.

Memorable Games

Certain games between Marshall and Middle Tennessee stand out for their excitement and significance.

4. 2014 Thriller: In 2014, Marshall defeated Middle Tennessee 49-24 in a game that featured explosive plays and high drama.
5. Overtime Battle: The 2018 game went into double overtime, with Middle Tennessee narrowly edging out Marshall 34-31.
6. Record-Breaking Performance: In 2019, Marshall's quarterback set a school record for passing yards in a single game against Middle Tennessee.

Star Players

Both teams have produced standout athletes who have made significant impacts on the field.

7. Chad Pennington: Marshall's legendary quarterback, Chad Pennington, played a crucial role in several victories against Middle Tennessee.
8. Kevin Byard: Middle Tennessee's Kevin Byard, now an NFL star, had memorable performances against Marshall.
9. Rakeem Cato: Marshall's Rakeem Cato was known for his incredible passing skills, often lighting up the scoreboard against Middle Tennessee.

Coaching Legends

Coaches play a pivotal role in shaping the rivalry. Here are some notable figures.

10. Doc Holliday: Marshall's former head coach, Doc Holliday, had a successful tenure, including several wins over Middle Tennessee.
11. Rick Stockstill: Middle Tennessee's long-time head coach, Rick Stockstill, has been a constant presence in the rivalry.
12. Bob Pruett: Another Marshall coaching legend, Bob Pruett, led the team to multiple victories against Middle Tennessee.

Fan Engagement

The rivalry extends beyond the field, with fans playing a significant role in the atmosphere.

13. Tailgating Tradition: Both schools have passionate fan bases known for their elaborate tailgating setups before games.
14. Social Media Battles: Fans from both sides engage in spirited debates and banter on social media platforms.
15. Marching Bands: The marching bands from both schools add to the excitement with their performances during games.

Unique Traditions

Every rivalry has its unique traditions that make it special. Here are some from Marshall vs. Middle Tennessee.

16. Thunder Clap: Marshall fans perform the "Thunder Clap" to rally their team during crucial moments.
17. Blue Raider Walk: Middle Tennessee fans participate in the "Blue Raider Walk," a pre-game tradition to support their team.
18. Homecoming Games: Both schools often schedule their homecoming games against each other, adding extra significance to the matchup.

Impact on Seasons

The outcome of these games often has a significant impact on the teams' seasons.

19. Bowl Eligibility: Wins in this rivalry have helped both teams secure bowl eligibility in several seasons.
20. Conference Standings: Victories in these matchups can influence the standings within Conference USA.
21. Recruiting: Success in this rivalry can boost a team's recruiting efforts, attracting top talent.

Iconic Venues

The stadiums where these games are played add to the rivalry's allure.

22. Joan C. Edwards Stadium: Marshall's home field, known for its electric atmosphere, has hosted many memorable games.
23. Johnny "Red" Floyd Stadium: Middle Tennessee's stadium, with its passionate fans, provides a challenging environment for visiting teams.
24. Neutral Sites: Occasionally, the rivalry has been played at neutral sites, adding a different dynamic to the games.

Statistical Milestones

Numbers often tell the story of a rivalry. Here are some key statistics.

25. Winning Streaks: Marshall once had a five-game winning streak against Middle Tennessee from 1991 to 1995.
26. High-Scoring Games: The highest-scoring game in the rivalry was in 2014, with a combined total of 73 points.
27. Defensive Battles: Conversely, the lowest-scoring game was a 9-6 victory for Middle Tennessee in 2018.

Cultural Impact

The rivalry has left a lasting impact on the culture of both schools.

28. Merchandise Sales: Rivalry games lead to a spike in merchandise sales, with fans eager to show their support.
29. Alumni Involvement: Alumni from both schools often return for these games, adding to the sense of tradition.
30. Media Coverage: Local and national media outlets frequently cover these matchups, highlighting their significance.

Community Engagement

The rivalry also extends into the communities surrounding the schools.

31. Charity Events: Both schools often organize charity events in conjunction with the games, benefiting local causes.
32. School Spirit: The rivalry fosters a strong sense of school spirit, with students and faculty getting involved.
33. Local Businesses: Businesses in both towns see increased activity on game days, boosting the local economy.

Future of the Rivalry

Looking ahead, the rivalry shows no signs of slowing down.

34. Scheduled Games: Both schools have future games scheduled, ensuring the rivalry continues.
35. Potential Changes: Conference realignments could impact the frequency of these matchups, but the rivalry's spirit will endure.
36. New Talent: Fresh talent on both teams promises to keep the games exciting for years to come.

Fun Facts

Let's end with some fun and quirky facts about the Marshall vs. Middle Tennessee rivalry.

37. Mascot Showdowns: The mascots, Marco the Bison and Lightning the Blue Raider, often engage in playful antics during games.
38. Fan Superstitions: Fans from both sides have unique superstitions they believe influence the game's outcome.
39. Rivalry Trophies: While there isn't an official trophy, fans have created their own, adding to the fun.
40. Epic Comebacks: Both teams have staged epic comebacks in this rivalry, making for unforgettable moments.

Final Thoughts on Marshall vs. Middle Tennessee

Marshall vs. Middle Tennessee has given fans some unforgettable moments. From thrilling last-minute touchdowns to nail-biting finishes, this rivalry never disappoints. Both teams bring their A-game, making each encounter a must-watch. The history between these two schools is rich, filled with intense competition and mutual respect. Fans eagerly await each matchup, knowing they’re in for a treat. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or a casual viewer, the excitement is contagious. This rivalry showcases the best of college football, highlighting the passion, skill, and determination of the players. As we look forward to future games, one thing’s for sure: Marshall vs. Middle Tennessee will continue to be a highlight of the season. So, gear up, grab your snacks, and get ready for more epic showdowns. Football fans, this is one rivalry you don’t want to miss!