Wild Names in College Football Rivalries

USATue Jul 08 2025
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College football rivalries have some of the most unique and creative names. These names often reflect the history, location, or culture of the schools involved. Some names are simple and straightforward, while others are more elaborate and imaginative. The names can also reflect the intensity of the rivalry, with some being more aggressive or confrontational than others. One of the most well-known rivalries is the Iron Bowl, which is played between Alabama and Auburn. This name reflects the industrial history of the region and the intense competition between the two schools. Another notable rivalry is the Red River Shootout, which is played between Texas and Oklahoma. This name reflects the Old West history of the region and the intense competition between the two schools. Some rivalries have more unusual names, such as the Seafaring Scuffle, which is played between U. S. Merchant Marine and SUNY Maritime. This name reflects the maritime focus of the two schools and the alliteration of the name. Another unusual name is the Coal Bowl, which is played between Indiana (Pa. ) and California (Pa. ). This name reflects the coal mining history of the region and the rhyming of the name. Other rivalries have names that are more self-aware or humorous, such as the World's Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party, which is played between Florida and Georgia. This name reflects the social aspect of the rivalry and the humorous nature of the name. Another self-aware name is the Biggest Little Game in America, which is played between Amherst and Williams. This name reflects the humble nature of the rivalry and the self-aware nature of the name. While some rivalries have official names, others have unofficial names that have been adopted by fans and the media. For example, the rivalry between Oregon and Oregon State is officially known as the Civil War, but it is often referred to as the "Oregon-Oregon State rivalry" or the "Civil War rivalry. " Similarly, the rivalry between BYU and Utah is officially known as the Holy War, but it is often referred to as the "BYU-Utah rivalry" or the "Holy War rivalry. " Overall, college football rivalries have some of the most unique and creative names in sports. These names often reflect the history, location, or culture of the schools involved, as well as the intensity of the competition. Whether they are serious or humorous, official or unofficial, these names are an important part of the tradition and excitement of college football.