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College football rivalries are among the most intense and storied in all sports. These matchups often carry historical, cultural and regional significance, making them more than just games. Here are the top five heated college football rivalries, featuring three of the biggest conference rivalries and two that extend beyond conference boundaries.
Conference: Big Ten
The Michigan-Ohio State rivalry, often referred to as “The Game,” is one of the most iconic in college football. This rivalry dates back to 1897 and has become the centerpiece of the Big Ten season. The intensity of this rivalry is fueled by the proximity of the schools, the consistent success of their football programs and the deep-seated animosity between fans. The games often have significant implications for the Big Ten championship and national title races.
Michigan leads the all-time series 61-56-6. Michigan closed out Jim Harbaugh’s tenure by winning three consecutive, but Ohio State had won nine in a row before then. In each of the last five meetings entering 2024, both teams were ranked in the top 10 at the time of their battle.
Conference: SEC
The Iron Bowl, featuring Alabama and Auburn, is one of the fiercest rivalries in college football. This in-state rivalry began in 1893 and has produced numerous unforgettable moments. The game is so significant in Alabama that it can define a season for both teams regardless of their overall records.
Highlights include the 2013 “Kick Six,” when Auburn’s Chris Davis returned a missed field goal attempt for a game-winning touchdown as time expired, the 1982 game when Auburn’s Bo Jackson leaped over the top for a game-winning score and the 2023 matchup when Jalen Milroe tossed up a prayer to the corner of the end zone on 4th and 33 with under 30 seconds to play. Milroe’s heroic hurl placed Alabama in the SEC Championship game, where they upset #1 Georgia. The Iron Bowl often has national championship implications, adding to the pressure and excitement.
Conference: SEC
The Red River Showdown and sacred hatred between Texas and Oklahoma is a staple of college football and will now transfer to the SEC from the Big 12. The game is played annually at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas during the State Fair of Texas.
This neutral-site game, dating back to 1900, is known for its split stadium, with half the fans wearing burnt orange and the other half in crimson. The rivalry has produced many memorable games, including the 2008 shootout, where both teams were ranked in the top five, and the 2018 game, where Texas won on a last-second field goal.
Conference: Independent (Notre Dame), Big Ten (USC)
Notre Dame and USC’s rivalry extends beyond conference boundaries, representing a clash of cultural and geographical titans. This rivalry, known as the “Battle for the Jeweled Shillelagh,” began in 1926 and is played for a trophy of the same name. The game is traditionally played in mid-October or late November, alternating between Notre Dame Stadium and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
Memorable moments include the “Bush Push” in 2005, when Reggie Bush helped push quarterback Matt Leinart into the end zone for a last-second USC victory, and Notre Dame’s 1988 victory, propelling them to an NCAAF National Championship.
Conference: Independent
The Army-Navy game stands out for its tradition, pageantry and the unique nature of the rivalry. Played uninterrupted since 1930, this game is a symbol of pride for the United States Military Academy and the United States Naval Academy. The Army-Navy game is typically the last regular-season game, played in early December, and is an event filled with military pomp.
Notable games include the 1963 match, played shortly after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, and the 2016 game when Army ended a 14-game losing streak against Navy. The matchup celebrates the dedication and service of the cadets and midshipmen.
Zach has been a published sports writer since 2018 specializing in college football & basketball, MLB and NFL content for multiple publications.