What is the Egg Bowl?
The Egg Bowl is an annual American football rivalry game between Mississippi State University and the University of Mississippi, also known as Ole Miss. The game is played at various venues across the state of Mississippi, with the home venue alternating between Davis Wade Stadium at Scott Field in Starkville, home of Mississippi State, and Vaught-Hemingway Stadium in Oxford, home of the University of Mississippi.
The name “Egg Bowl” originated in 1927, when Ole Miss fans allegedly served Mississippi State players scrambled eggs on the morning after a game, poking fun at the fact that the Bulldogs were losing badly. However, the story of serving eggs may be more myth than fact. Regardless of its origins, the term has since been used to describe the intense and storied rivalry between the two teams, who have been competing for over a century.
The Egg Bowl is one of the longest-standing rivalries in college football, with the teams having met 109 times in regular season play as of the 2022 season. Numerous games have been decided by a single point, and the two teams have battled for control of the rivalry on many occasions. With the intensity and history of the rivalry, the Egg Bowl is considered one of the greatest rivalries in college football.
When was the first Egg Bowl played?
The first Egg Bowl was played on November 30, 1927, between the Ole Miss Rebels and the Mississippi State Bulldogs. The name “Egg Bowl” comes from an egg, which was a silver egg-shaped trophy awarded to the winner of the game. It was considered a symbol of domination on the battlefield in football, like a victorious soldier breaking eggs at his own camp.
Where does the Egg Bowl usually take place?
The Egg Bowl is an annual college football game between Ole Miss and Mississippi State, both teams from the state of Mississippi. The game is typically played at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium in Oxford, Mississippi, when Ole Miss is the home team. However, when Mississippi State is the home team, the game is usually played at Davis Wade Stadium in Starkville, Mississippi. The location of the game may alternate, but either of the two stadiums serves as the primary venue for the Egg Bowl.
The Egg Bowl has been a significant part of a long-standing rivalry between the two teams, with the game often having high stakes and high school players from the state looking to participate.
How do the teams earn the right to play in the Egg Bowl?
The teams that earn the right to play in the Egg Bowl are the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) and Mississippi State University (Mississippi State), both of which are located in the state of Mississippi. These two teams are members of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and have a long-standing rivalry that dates back to 1903. The team with the better win-loss record in head-to-head games against each other gets to host the Egg Bowl, regardless of their overall conference standings.
However, ultimately, the hosting rights can change year-to-year based on which school the Southeastern Conference (SEC) decides and awards through a process. Frequently, they change between Ole Miss and Mississippi State alternating periods.
What is the significance of the “Egg” in the Egg Bowl?
In the context of the annual football game between Ole Miss and Mississippi State, known as the Egg Bowl, the “Egg” has significant cultural and historical meaning. The origin of the name is attributed to a few different theories. However, the most widely accepted story behind the name of the Egg Bowl is related to a student prank in the 1920s at the original E.E. Smith High School (now called Greenville High School) in which someone dyed eggs, (which some said had originated before this specific event then they became associated with the football game between Ole Miss), then the eggs were used as part of a practice where two school boys stood on their necks.
Another theory links to “Milk the Eagle”, an eagle mascot of Ole Miss, then in those days as the Oxford College, a place that had the dominant team then. When it got defeated by Mississippi State, this student mascot then ran to ask for an egg, from Mississippi State for proof as a memento of defeat, the students who the victor might ask at last took the egg back, being the egg the victory.
At some point a campaign, along with support media, was organized from that day forward to market, promote & commemorate the football game that every year took place between the Ole Miss vs. Mississippi State by designating the game a classic along with getting it known that they offered an Eggs Bowl each year on that one same date, by the end of December.
Who holds the record for the most wins in the Egg Bowl?
The Egg Bowl is an annual football game between Mississippi State University and the University of Mississippi, also known as Ole Miss. Hugh Freeze the most Egg Bowl wins as a head coach, by winning four matchups. Conversely as a head coach with the most wins in this matchup Dan Mullen attained four wins for the Bulldogs between 2005 and 2011.
In terms of individual coaches Ron Blackburn then holds the record for the most wins in the Egg Bowl. Blackburn, who coached at Ole Miss from 1963 to 1969, accumulated seven wins against the Bulldogs during his tenure.
What can fans expect from the Egg Bowl?
The Egg Bowl is an annual college football rivalry game between the Ole Miss Rebels and the Mississippi State Bulldogs, both representing the state of Mississippi. This historic matchup typically takes place near the end of the regular season, and fans expect an intense, high-stakes competition between two of the region’s top teams. The game gets its nickname “Egg Bowl” from the tradition of a golden egg trophy being passed between the two institutions each year, symbolizing bragging rights and ownership of the state’s top spot in college football.
Fans can expect substantial bragging rights to be on the line throughout the game, as well as potential advantages in recruiting and within the SEC. The tension and excitement surrounding the rivalry contribute to an electrical atmosphere during the Egg Bowl, drawing heavy crowds of boisterous college football enthusiasts to the Mississippi venues where the games are held. Given the local significance, a trip to see either team play in this annual match-up has become a beloved tradition for many alumni and fans in the state of Mississippi.
Given that it is such a high-profile event each year, a result of the event can greatly contribute to how the teams perform in post season games and recruiting. Fans attending the event can expect world class entertainment with possibly legendary plays in the game. Each year football enthusiasts are treated to heart pounding plays that often determine the winner. Should you ever get the opportunity to attend an Egg Bowl, you are sure to witness some kind of sensational game that ultimately concludes as an unforgettable experience.
How does the Egg Bowl impact the teams and their fans?
The Egg Bowl, an annual college football rivalry game between Mississippi State University and the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), has significant impacts on both teams and their fans. The game is one of the most highly anticipated matchups in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), with local bragging rights on the line. Fans from both sides are known for their intense rivalries, and the game is often considered a defining moment in the season for both teams.
The Egg Bowl is a staple of the Mississippi sports landscape, with fans from across the state rallying around their teams. Local radio stations and news outlets devote significant coverage to the game, and local businesses often hold viewing parties and special promotions. For fans who are unable to attend the game in person, the atmosphere is still electric, with friends and family gathering to watch the game on TV and cheering on their favorite team. The intensity of the rivalry is palpable, with many considering it one of the fiercest in college football.
The outcome of the Egg Bowl can have long-term implications for both teams, particularly when it comes to bowl eligibility and seeding. A win can provide a significant boost in momentum and pride for the winning team, while a loss can leave the loser feeling disappointed and frustrated. For fans, the outcome of the game can be a defining moment in the season, with many using it as a barometer for their team’s overall performance. Despite the on-field implications, the Egg Bowl is often as much about pride and tradition as it is about winning or losing.
The Egg Bowl has a rich history, dating back to 1901, and is one of the oldest rivalries in college football. The game has changed venues several times, but its tradition and significance have endured. For fans, the Egg Bowl is an opportunity to celebrate their school’s heritage and rivalry with their in-state neighbors. The game is often played at a neutral site, with the venue changing each year to accommodate the logistics of the rivalry. Despite the neutral site, the intensity of the rivalry remains high, with fans from both sides filling the stands to create a hostile and electric atmosphere.
In addition to its on-field implications, the Egg Bowl has a significant economic impact on the local communities involved. The game brings in significant revenue through ticket sales, merchandise, and hospitality. Local hotels and restaurants often host fans from out of town, and many businesses offer special promotions and discounts to coincide with the game. The Egg Bowl is a significant economic driver for the region, and its impact is felt long after the final whistle is blown.
What makes the Egg Bowl a must-watch event?
The Egg Bowl, an annual football game between Ole Miss and Mississippi State, is a highly anticipated event in the world of collegiate athletics. One of the primary reasons the Egg Bowl is a must-watch is due to its long-standing history and intense rivalry between the two teams. Mississippi and Mississippi State have competed against each other since 1901 in various football games, creating a fierce connection between the teams.
The competition on the field is always high-pressure, with both teams fighting for the Egg Bowl trophy. This leads to many nail-biting moments, and occasionally, historic upsets. Ole Miss and Mississippi State have experienced numerous thrilling moments, including multiple comebacks, which leave the audience on the edge of their seats.
The rivalry transcends sports, as the two universities serve different communities within the state of Mississippi. Ole Miss is based in Oxford, serving the northern part of the state, while Mississippi State is based in Starkville, serving the eastern part. The energy and passion displayed by local fans who have followed the teams for years make for an electric atmosphere on game day, creating a spectacular experience for the fans attending the Egg Bowl.
Another factor contributing to the Egg Bowl’s must-watch status is its impact on college football rankings. Due to the rivalry’s importance and the teams’ consistent performance, a win or loss for either Ole Miss or Mississippi State can significantly influence their standings in the Southeastern Conference, thereby potentially altering their chances of winning the championship or postseason bowl games.
Lastly, the Egg Bowl serves as a significant symbol for the state of Mississippi, epitomizing the passion and rivalry that represents the competing northern and eastern regions. As a result, many Mississippians tune in to watch the Egg Bowl not only to cheer for their favorite team but also to witness their state’s top football event.
How has the Egg Bowl evolved over the years?
The Egg Bowl, a legendary rivalry between the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) Rebels and the University of Mississippi State Universities Bulldogs, has a rich history that spans over a century. The name “Egg Bowl” originated from the large number of eggs that Mississippians had to endure after Ole Miss defeated Mississippi State in the 1920s. The games have become an annual tradition, with the two schools competing for state supremacy in football. As the rivalry has evolved over the years, the atmosphere and intensity around the games have increased. In the early years, the games were often played in near-empty stadiums, but today’s Egg Bowl is a highly anticipated event, drawing thousands of fans to Vaught-Hemingway Stadium in Oxford or Davis Wade Stadium in Starkville.
The Egg Bowl rivalry has seen its fair share of memorable moments and games over the years. From Ole Miss’s dominant performance in the 1990s to Mississippi State’s historic upset of then-No. 1 Alabama in 2014, the games have always been filled with excitement and unpredictability. In recent years, the rivalry has taken on a new level of intensity, with both schools vying for the state’s top spot and a chance to claim the coveted governor’s mansion trophy. The games have also become a platform for the two schools to showcase their talent and passion on the national stage. With the rise of social media and modern sports media, the Egg Bowl has gained even more attention, with fans from all over the world tuning in to watch the action unfold.
The rivalry has also led to some notable events off the field, including coaching changes, recruitment battles, and even a few memorable on-field moments that have shaped the course of the rivalry. The two schools have produced some of the greatest players and coaches in the history of the Southeastern Conference (SEC), and the Egg Bowl has been a platform for many of these legends to shine. With the constant changes and upgrades at both schools, it’s exciting to see what the future holds for this storied rivalry and the athletes who participate in it. One thing is for sure: on the week of the Egg Bowl, there’s only one thing on the minds of Rebels and Bulldogs fans alike – winning the right to claim the top spot in the state of Mississippi.
What are some memorable moments from past Egg Bowl games?
The Egg Bowl, an annual college football rivalry game between the Ole Miss Rebels and the Mississippi State Bulldogs, has witnessed many thrilling moments throughout the years. One of the most memorable Egg Bowl games was in 2018 when the Rebels scored on a last-second Hail Mary to defeat the Bulldogs with a score of 28-20. In this thrilling game, Ole Miss quarterback Shea Patterson connected with quarterback Chad Kelly’s former friend, quarterback’s receiver A.J. Brown, on what appeared to be a routine 10-yard catch. However, the catch became historic, securing a 28-20 win for Ole Miss.
The rivalry on the field can be just as interesting as the events surrounding it, such as Bryan Murray, a former Ole Miss assistant coach and current NHL President, as well as Dan Mullen, former head coach of the Florida Gators and former assistant coach and head coach for the Bulldogs. A rematch led to changes with Dan Mullen leaving the Bulldogs to join the Gators, and Lane Kiffin taking the helm at Ole Miss for a single season ending in 2021 and then returning in 2022 after a brief stay at Florida Atlantic University.
There are even some legendary situations in history such as Archie Manning’s last game as quarterback. He played for a Ole Miss program coached by the legendary Johnny Vaught’s former offensive line coach, Robert Norvell, although head coach’s name is a bit more obscure.
What does the future hold for the Egg Bowl?
The Egg Bowl is one of the most iconic rivalry games in college football, pitting the Ole Miss Rebels against their in-state rivals, the Mississippi State Bulldogs. At this point in time, there’s no indication that the rivalry is going to lose steam anytime soon. Both programs continue to compete at a high level, and the Egg Bowl has turned into a consistent matchup that consistently showcases top-notch talent from both sides.
For years, the stakes have only gotten higher, with the winner often claiming bragging rights and potentially impacting their conference standings, postseason prospects, and division or league title hopes, depending on the teams’ conference that they compete in over the years. The intensity of this historical rivalry, with roots dating back to 1903, is not just confined to the players on the field – it is also felt by the fans and the entire communities surrounding the Rebels and the Bulldogs.
When looking ahead, one possible area for development is how these two in-state powerhouses decide their future schedules within the larger Southeastern Conference (SEC) landscape. If conference expansion reaches a point where these rivalries begin to be severely strained or diluted – we will have to see how other rivalries eventually develop that remain intact – if this occurs, it should only fuel an already deep interest for both teams.
However, given the enduring appeal of both Ole Miss and Mississippi State alongside an historically-rich in-state rivalry game that offers so much in terms of instant classic potential and regional bragging rights – it is more likely that the rivalry will carry on for years to come. In fact, considering the increasingly strong allegiance of fans and their devotion to both schools, as well as the depth of history connecting the teams, the Egg Bowl is well-positioned to keep growing in standing as long as both programs are competing at a high level.
