Ole Miss and Mississippi State engage in one of college football’s most spirited rivalries during Thanksgiving: The Egg Bowl. Known formally as the “Battle for the Golden Egg,” this clash has become a staple of Southern football culture. With Ole Miss winning the last two contests, the rivalry is as fierce as ever, filled with unforgettable moments and a rich history.
The Egg Bowl’s Origins
So, how did The Egg Bowl get its unique name? The story begins with the trophy itself. In 1927, after a chaotic game in 1926 that saw players and fans clashing on the field, officials from both schools sought a solution to prevent future violence. The result was the creation of The Golden Egg, a trophy symbolizing the best football team in Mississippi. This trophy was intended to foster sportsmanship and respect between the two schools.
The name “Egg Bowl” came into popular use over 50 years later. In 1979, Tom Patterson of “The Clarion-Ledger” dubbed the game with this catchy moniker. Interestingly, that year’s matchup was less than thrilling, with both teams entering the game at 3-7 and not vying for bowl appearances. Yet, Patterson’s coverage turned it into a spectacle, leading to a memorable moment in the rivalry’s history.
Why is it called the Egg Bowl?
The Egg Bowl’s namesake comes from the trophy Ole Miss and Mississippi State compete for, “The Golden Egg.” The trophy’s shape resembles an egg, which adds a whimsical touch to the fierce competition. In 1979, Patterson’s decision to name the game helped solidify its place in college football lore.
Interestingly, the name carries a double meaning. The 1979 game, which ended scoreless in the first quarter, was described by writer Rick Cleveland as a situation where “never has so much been written about so little.” This playful jab at the lackluster game highlights the passion and enthusiasm surrounding the rivalry, regardless of the on-field performance.
Egg Bowl history
The history of the Egg Bowl is steeped in memorable moments and intense competition. The year 1926 stands out as a pivotal point, as Ole Miss ended Mississippi A&M’s 13-game winning streak. The aftermath was chaotic, with fans rushing the field and attempting to dismantle the goalposts, leading to injuries and a desperate defense of the posts using furniture.
In response to this mayhem, students from both schools pooled their resources to purchase The Golden Egg. This trophy became a symbol of pride and rivalry, with the holder considered the top football school in Mississippi. The Egg Bowl has since evolved into a celebration of tradition, competition, and community.
Other notable games
The Egg Bowl has seen its fair share of unforgettable moments. One such instance occurred in 1983, known as “The Immaculate Deflection.” In a dramatic finish, Ole Miss secured a victory when a gust of wind thwarted a 27-yard field goal attempt from Mississippi State, leaving fans in disbelief. This moment is often cited as a clear example of divine intervention in football.
Fast forward to 2018, and the rivalry reached new heights with “The Egg Brawl.” Tensions flared when Ole Miss’s A.J. Brown scored a touchdown, leading to a scuffle with a Mississippi State player. The situation escalated, resulting in punches being thrown and both benches clearing. The chaos led to unsportsmanlike conduct penalties for every player on the field, showcasing the intensity of this storied rivalry.
In the following year, Elijah Moore added to the drama with a controversial touchdown celebration that involved mimicking a dog urinating in the end zone. This ill-fated celebration resulted in a penalty that ultimately cost Ole Miss the game, leading to a 21-20 loss and the firing of head coach Matt Luke. These moments illustrate just how unpredictable and entertaining the Egg Bowl can be.
Ole Miss vs. Mississippi State all-time record
When it comes to the all-time series, Ole Miss holds a significant advantage over Mississippi State, leading with a record of 65-46-6. However, Mississippi State boasts the longest winning streak in the rivalry, having won 13 consecutive games from 1911 to 1925. Interestingly, during that time, the teams faced off twice in 1918, and there were no games played from 1912 to 1914.
On the other hand, Ole Miss has its own claim to fame with the longest unbeaten streak in the series, which lasted from 1947 to 1963. During that period, Ole Miss won 14 of their 17 meetings, with three games ending in ties. This rich history adds layers of excitement and anticipation to every Egg Bowl matchup.
The Egg Bowl trophy name
The Egg Bowl’s trophy, The Golden Egg, is not just a symbol of rivalry; it’s a piece of art. Shaped like a football, the trophy reflects the design of the footballs used in 1927, which were less elongated than today’s versions. Its smooth, egg-like appearance adds a touch of charm to the fierce competition, making it a fitting emblem for this storied rivalry.
As the Egg Bowl approaches each year, fans from both Ole Miss and Mississippi State eagerly anticipate the clash. The tradition, the history, and the passion surrounding this game make it a highlight of the college football season. Whether it’s the fierce competition on the field or the unforgettable moments off it, the Egg Bowl continues to capture the hearts of fans across the nation.
