40 Facts About Tulane Vs. Ole Miss

Tulane vs. Ole Miss: A Historic Rivalry

Tulane University and the University of Mississippi, commonly known as Ole Miss, have a long-standing rivalry that dates back decades. This rivalry has seen numerous thrilling games, memorable moments, and passionate fanbases. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this historic matchup.

1. Tulane and Ole Miss first faced off in 1893, making their rivalry one of the oldest in college football history.

2. The two teams have played over 70 games against each other, with Ole Miss leading the series.

3. Tulane was a founding member of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in 1932, where they regularly competed against Ole Miss until Tulane left the SEC in 1966.

4. The rivalry is not just limited to football; both schools have competitive matchups in basketball, baseball, and other sports.

Memorable Games and Moments

Throughout the years, Tulane vs. Ole Miss games have provided fans with unforgettable moments. Here are some highlights:

5. In 1949, Tulane defeated Ole Miss 21-20 in a nail-biting game that is still talked about by fans today.

6. The 1979 matchup saw Ole Miss win 27-24 in a game that featured multiple lead changes and a last-minute field goal.

7. Tulane's 1987 victory over Ole Miss was a significant upset, with the Green Wave winning 31-24 against a heavily favored Rebels team.

8. In 2010, Ole Miss triumphed over Tulane with a commanding 27-13 win, showcasing their dominance in the rivalry.

Legendary Players

Both Tulane and Ole Miss have produced some legendary players who have left their mark on the rivalry:

9. Archie Manning, an Ole Miss legend, played against Tulane in the late 1960s and early 1970s, leading the Rebels to multiple victories.

10. Shaun King, a standout quarterback for Tulane, led the Green Wave to a memorable win over Ole Miss in 1998.

11. Deuce McAllister, one of Ole Miss's all-time great running backs, had several standout performances against Tulane.

12. Matt Forte, a Tulane star, showcased his talents against Ole Miss before going on to a successful NFL career.

Coaching Legends

The rivalry has also seen some legendary coaches on both sidelines:

13. Tommy Bowden, who coached Tulane in the late 1990s, led the Green Wave to a perfect season in 1998, including a win over Ole Miss.

14. Johnny Vaught, a legendary Ole Miss coach, had a remarkable record against Tulane during his tenure from 1947 to 1970.

15. Mack Brown, who had a brief stint at Tulane, also faced off against Ole Miss during his coaching career.

16. Hugh Freeze, a former Ole Miss coach, had notable victories against Tulane during his time with the Rebels.

Fan Traditions and Culture

The rivalry between Tulane and Ole Miss is not just about the games; it's also about the passionate fanbases and unique traditions:

17. Ole Miss fans are known for their "Hotty Toddy" chant, which echoes through the stadium during games against Tulane.

18. Tulane fans proudly display their "Roll Wave" banners and chants, creating an electric atmosphere at home games.

19. The annual tailgating scene at both schools is a spectacle, with fans from both sides coming together to celebrate the rivalry.

20. The "Grove" at Ole Miss is one of the most famous tailgating spots in college football, attracting thousands of fans for the Tulane game.

Academic Excellence

Both Tulane and Ole Miss are known for their academic achievements, adding another layer to their rivalry:

21. Tulane is a prestigious private university known for its strong programs in law, business, and medicine.

22. Ole Miss, a public university, boasts a renowned law school and a strong liberal arts program.

23. Both schools have produced numerous Rhodes Scholars, highlighting their commitment to academic excellence.

24. Tulane's Freeman School of Business and Ole Miss's School of Accountancy are highly regarded in the business world.

Impact on Local Communities

The rivalry between Tulane and Ole Miss extends beyond the field, impacting their local communities in various ways:

25. Tulane's presence in New Orleans has contributed significantly to the city's cultural and economic development.

26. Ole Miss, located in Oxford, Mississippi, plays a vital role in the local economy and community life.

27. Both universities are involved in numerous community service projects, making a positive impact on their respective regions.

28. The annual Tulane vs. Ole Miss game brings a significant economic boost to the host city, with fans traveling from far and wide.

Future of the Rivalry

As both schools continue to grow and evolve, the future of the Tulane vs. Ole Miss rivalry looks bright:

29. Recent games have seen increased competitiveness, with both teams striving to outdo each other.

30. The rivalry has expanded to include other sports, such as women's basketball and soccer, increasing the stakes.

31. With both schools investing in their athletic programs, the rivalry is expected to remain fierce for years to come.

32. The advent of social media has added a new dimension to the rivalry, with fans engaging in spirited debates online.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Here are some fun and lesser-known facts about the Tulane vs. Ole Miss rivalry:

33. The Tulane Green Wave mascot, Riptide, and the Ole Miss Rebel Black Bear often engage in playful antics during games.

34. Tulane's Yulman Stadium and Ole Miss's Vaught-Hemingway Stadium are known for their unique architectural features.

35. The rivalry has inspired numerous fan-made merchandise, from T-shirts to bumper stickers, celebrating the historic matchup.

36. Both schools have dedicated sections in their respective sports museums highlighting the Tulane vs. Ole Miss rivalry.

Notable Alumni

Both universities boast impressive lists of alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields:

37. Tulane alumni include former New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu and CNN anchor Anderson Cooper.

38. Ole Miss counts author John Grisham and NFL star Eli Manning among its notable graduates.

39. Both schools have produced influential politicians, business leaders, and entertainers who proudly support their alma maters.

40. The rivalry has even seen alumni from both schools working together in various professional fields, showcasing the mutual respect between the two institutions.

The Final Whistle

Tulane vs. Ole Miss has always been a thrilling matchup. From their first game in 1893 to their most recent clash, these teams have given fans countless memorable moments. Tulane's Green Wave and Ole Miss's Rebels both have rich histories, passionate fanbases, and a knack for making every game exciting. Whether it's the intense rivalries, standout players, or unforgettable plays, this matchup never disappoints.

If you're a football fan, this is one rivalry you don't want to miss. Keep an eye on their future games, as both teams continue to build on their legacies. Who knows what the next game will bring? One thing's for sure: Tulane vs. Ole Miss will always be a highlight of the college football season. So, grab your gear, cheer for your team, and enjoy the ride!