The 5 Greatest Rivalries in College Football History

On Saturday, Oct. 24, 1884, a team of football novices from Lehigh University in Bethlehem, PA made a roughly 14-mile trek to Easton to face the Lafayette Leopards.

Lafayette had just begun playing organized football two years earlier, and with the standardization of football rules in 1883, the Leopards were looking for some regular competition. Lehigh stepped up, haphazardly forming a team of athletes that was so green its players arrived in Easton without proper footwear.

“[Lehigh] knew so little of the game that only one man had [cleats] on his shoes and the rest of us slid over the worn grass as though we were on roller skates,” said Richard Harding Davis, a Lehigh football player at the time.

This equipment issue and the Mountain Hawks’ general lack of gridiron experience led to their 56-0 loss (or was it a 50-0 loss?) to Lafayette in the first matchup of what would become known simply as “The Rivalry” — the longest-running rivalry in college football history.

The two teams would go on to play 159 times, the latest a 49-21 Lafayette victory in 2023. The Lafayette Leopards lead the all-time series with an 82-72-5 record.

Nearly a century and a half later, or course, rivalries have become a staple of college football. These epic clashes, rich in tradition and brimming with fervor, transform typical Saturday games into intense battles for bragging rights and rivalry trophies.

And while Lafayette-Lehigh contests continue each year in Pennsylvania, several modern showdowns have eclipsed The Rivalry in prominence and spectacle.

The following are currently the top five rivalries in college football.

5. USC vs. Notre Dame

First Meeting: Dec. 4, 1926, at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum (Notre Dame 13, USC 12)

All-Time Series Record: Notre Dame leads the series, 51-38-5

Trophy: Jeweled Shillelagh

Seemingly played at the point where college football tradition and excellence intersect, the USC-Notre Dame rivalry pits two of the most storied programs against one another, occasionally with national championship implications.

It’s a rivalry that began thanks to a “conversation between wives.” As the story goes, the wife of USC athletic director Gywnn Wilson convinced Bonnie Rockne, the wife of Notre Dame head coach Knute Rockne, on the idea of traveling to sunny Southern California every two years to get out of the snow.

While some have disputed this origin story, few dispute this game has become one of the fiercest rivalries in college football. The series has featured Heisman Trophy winners like USC’s Reggie Bush and Notre Dame’s Tim Brown, as well as legendary coaches like Ara Parseghian and John McKay.

Adding to the grandeur of the matchup, the annual clash alternates between two historic sites: the Los Angeles Coliseum and Notre Dame Stadium.

Regardless of superstars and rankings, however, this rivalry game is a must-watch.

Key Moments in The USC vs. Notre Dame Rivalry

Source: onefootdown

• 1931: Called “the biggest upset since Mrs. O’Leary’s cow knocked over that lantern” by one student publication, USC’s Johnny Baker kicked a 33-yard field goal with a minute remaining to clinch a 16-14 come-from-behind victory over the Irish … and an eventual national title. The win snapped a 26-game unbeaten streak by Notre Dame.

• 1974: Anthony Davis's four touchdowns in the second half led USC to a 55-24 comeback victory over Notre Dame — a game during which the Trojans were down 24-0. In rivalry lore, this game is known simply as “The Comeback.”

• 1977: Notre Dame, led by Joe Montana, defeated USC 49-19 en route to a national championship. This was known as “The Green Jersey Game” as Irish players played in green jerseys rather than the traditional navy blue tops. Notre Dame would continue wearing their green jerseys through the rest of their championship season.

• 2005: The "Bush Push" game, where Reggie Bush helped push Matt Leinart into the end zone for a last-second touchdown, giving USC a 34-31 victory over Notre Dame.

Notable USC Trojans Players

• Reggie Bush, RB, 2003-05: Bush won the Heisman Trophy in 2005 (later vacated, then reinstated) and was known for his electrifying play. His performance in the 2005 "Bush Push" game against Notre Dame is legendary.

• Marcus Allen, RB, 1978-81: Allen won the Heisman Trophy in 1981 and was a key player in several games against Notre Dame. His exceptional rushing ability helped USC dominate many of their matchups.

• Matt Leinart, QB, 2002-05: Leinart won the Heisman Trophy in 2004 and led USC to two national championships. His leadership and clutch performances in the rivalry games were pivotal.

• Anthony Davis, RB, 1972-74: Davis is remembered for his incredible performance in the 1974 game against Notre Dame, where he scored four touchdowns in the second half, leading USC to a dramatic comeback victory.

• Ronnie Lott, DB, 1977-80: Lott was an All-American and later became an NFL Hall of Famer. His hard-hitting style and defensive prowess were crucial in USC's battles against Notre Dame.

Notable Notre Dame Irish Players

• Joe Montana, QB, 1975-78: Montana led Notre Dame to a national championship in 1977. He is best known for his legendary comeback in the 1978 game against USC, where he led the Irish to a 25-24 victory despite being down 24-6 in the second half.

• Tim Brown, WR, 1984-87: Brown won the Heisman Trophy in 1987 and was known for his game-breaking speed and playmaking ability. His performances in the rivalry games were instrumental for Notre Dame.

• Paul Hornung, QB/RB, 1954-56: Hornung won the Heisman Trophy in 1956 despite Notre Dame's losing record. He was a versatile player who excelled in various roles and had memorable games against USC.

• Raghib “Rocket” Ismail, WR/KR, 1988-90: Ismail was known for his explosive speed and return abilities. He played a crucial role in Notre Dame's 1988 national championship team and had several impactful plays against USC.

• Brady Quinn, QB, 2003-06: Quinn was a two-time Heisman finalist and led Notre Dame to several high-profile victories. His performances against USC were significant, including the dramatic 2005 "Bush Push" game.

4. Army vs. Navy

First Meeting: Nov. 29, 1890, on “The Plain” at West Point (Navy 24, Army 0)

All-Time Series Record: Navy leads the series, 62-55-7

Trophy: The Secretary’s Trophy

The Army-Navy game is more than just a football rivalry; it's a symbol of American tradition and military honor.

Played nearly every year since 1890 (the teams did not play in 10 of its first 40 years), this game is a showcase of discipline, teamwork, and respect, embodying the values of the United States Armed Forces.

The game is also steeped in pageantry, including the "March On" of the cadets and midshipmen and the playing of both alma maters post-game. Despite neither team typically being in the national title picture, the game’s significance transcends records, making it a unique and highly respected rivalry.

Often attended by U.S. Presidents and other esteemed fans, The Army-Navy game annually marks the end of the college football season.

Key Moments in the Army vs. Navy Rivalry

• 1926: Played to commemorate the recently dedicated Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and before a crowd that included President Calvin Coolidge, this year’s game ended in a 21-21 tie. The tie was seen as a fitting tribute to the unknown soldiers of World War I and emphasized the unity and respect between the two academies.

• 1944-45: Heading into games in both these years — played during the final years of World War II — Army and Navy were ranked No. 1 and No. 2, respectively. Army won both games.

• 1963: Navy, with Heisman Trophy winner Roger Staubach, won 21-15 in a game that followed President Kennedy’s assassination.

Notable Army Black Knights Players

• Glenn Davis, HB, 1943-46: Known as "Mr. Outside," Davis won the Heisman Trophy in 1946 and was a key player in Army's dominance during the mid-1940s. He formed a legendary backfield duo with Doc Blanchard, leading Army to national championships.

• Doc Blanchard, FB, 1944-46: "Mr. Inside," Blanchard won the Heisman Trophy in 1945 and was the first junior to do so. Along with Glenn Davis, he led Army to three consecutive national championships.

• Pete Dawkins, HB, 1956-58: Dawkins won the Heisman Trophy in 1958 and was also a Rhodes Scholar. He played a crucial role in Army's victories over Navy during his time and later had a distinguished military and political career.

• Joe Steffy, G, 1945-47: Steffy was an All-American and won the Outland Trophy in 1947. He was a key player in Army's powerful line during their dominant years.

Notable Navy Midshipmen Players

• Roger Staubach, QB, 1962-64: Staubach won the Heisman Trophy in 1963 and is widely considered one of the greatest players in college football history. He later had a Hall of Fame career in the NFL with the Dallas Cowboys.

• Joe Bellino, HB, 1958-60: Bellino won the Heisman Trophy in 1960 and was known for his versatility and playmaking ability. He played a crucial role in Navy's victories over Army.

• Kyle Eckel, FB, 2001-04: Eckel was a key player in Navy's resurgence in the early 2000s, helping to lead the team to multiple victories over Army and earning All-Conference honors.

3. Oklahoma vs. Texas (Red River Rivalry)

First Meeting: Oct. 10, 1900, at the “Varsity Athletic Field” in Austin (Texas 28, Oklahoma 2)

All-Time Series Record: Texas leads the series, 63-51-5

Trophy: The Golden Hat, the Red River Rivalry trophy, and the Governors’ trophy

The Red River Rivalry (formerly the Red River Shootout), held annually at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, epitomizes the fierce rivalry between Oklahoma and Texas. This neutral-site game is a staple of the college football season, often determining the Big 12 champion and influencing the national championship race.

While the two teams first played one another in 1900, when Oklahoma was still a U.S. territory, the game didn’t become an annual tradition until 1932. Since 1934, the first year of the AP Poll, at least one of the teams has come into the game ranked no less than 70 times.

With a rich history of dramatic finishes and high-scoring affairs, the Red River Rivalry has seen legendary performances from players like Vince Young and Sam Bradford.

The pageantry, with the stadium split down the middle in crimson and burnt orange, adds to the electric atmosphere, making this one of the most intense rivalries in the sport.

Key Moments in the Oklahoma vs. Texas RIvalry

• 1976: Oklahoma's Billy Sims led the Sooners to a 6-6 tie, a game that preserved their unbeaten season.

• 2005: Texas, led by Vince Young, defeated Oklahoma 45-12, a crucial win in their national championship season.

• 2008: Known within the rivalry as the "Game of the Century," Texas defeated Oklahoma 45-35, impacting the national championship race and featuring standout performances from Sam Bradford and Colt McCoy.

Notable Oklahoma Sooners Players

Source: The Oklahoman

• Billy Sims, RB, 1975-79: Sims won the Heisman Trophy in 1978 and was a key player in Oklahoma's victories over Texas. He was known for his powerful running style and big-game performances.

• Brian Bosworth, LB, 1984-86: “The Boz” was a two-time Butkus Award winner and a dominant defensive force. His intensity and flamboyant personality made him a central figure in the rivalry.

• Sam Bradford, QB, 2006-09: Bradford won the Heisman Trophy in 2008 and led Oklahoma to numerous victories. His performance in the 2008 Red River Showdown helped solidify his Heisman candidacy.

• Adrian Peterson, RB, 2004-06: Peterson was a standout player from his freshman year, earning All-American honors and making significant contributions in the rivalry games against Texas.

• Roy Williams, S, 1999-2001: Williams was a unanimous All-American in 2001 and won the Bronko Nagurski Trophy. He is best remembered for his game-changing play in the 2001 Red River Showdown, where he forced a fumble that led to a touchdown.

Notable Texas Longhorns Players

• Earl Campbel, RB, 1974-77: Campbell won the Heisman Trophy in 1977 and was a dominant force in the rivalry. His powerful running style made him a nightmare for defenses, including Oklahoma's.

• Vince Young, QB, 2003-05: Young led Texas to a national championship in 2005. His performances against Oklahoma were pivotal, including a standout game in 2005 that showcased his dual-threat capabilities.

• Ricky Williams, RB, 1995-98: Williams won the Heisman Trophy in 1998 and broke the NCAA career rushing record. His powerful running and consistency made him a key player in the rivalry.

• Colt McCoy, QB, 2006-09: McCoy led Texas to multiple victories over Oklahoma and was a finalist for the Heisman Trophy. His leadership and poise were crucial in the rivalry games.

• Tommy Nobis, LB/G, 1963-65: Nobis was a two-time All-American and won the Outland Trophy and Maxwell Award. He was known for his ferocious tackling and leadership on both sides of the ball.

2. Alabama vs. Auburn (Iron Bowl)

First Meeting: Feb. 22, 1893, at Legion Field in Birmingham, AL (Auburn 32, Alabama 22)

All-Time Series Record: Alabama leads the series, 50-37-1

Trophy: James E. Foy, V-Omicron Delta Kappy Sportsmanship Trophy (Foy-ODK Sportsmanship Trophy)

The Iron Bowl is a showcase of deep-rooted enmity and statewide pride. When Alabama and Auburn clash, it’s more than just a game — it's a cultural event that divides families and communities.

The name “Iron Bowl” was coined by Auburn head coach Ralph “Shug” Jordan (1951-75) who, when once asked about his disappointment about not earning a bowl bid, responded, “We’ve got our bowl game. We have it every year. It’s the Iron Bowl in Birmingham.”

This intense rivalry has produced some of the most memorable moments in college football history, including the legendary "Kick Six." With both teams frequently in the hunt for SEC and national titles, the Iron Bowl’s stakes are continuously high.

The game has featured legendary coaches like Bear Bryant and Nick Saban and iconic players like Bo Jackson and Derrick Thomas, each contributing to the lore of this heated rivalry.

Key Moments in the Alabama vs. Auburn Rivalry

• 1982: Bo Jackson's famous "Bo Over the Top" play led Auburn to a 23-22 victory over Alabama, ending a nine-year losing streak.

• 2010: Cam Newton led Auburn to a dramatic 28-27 comeback win, overcoming a 24-0 deficit, in what is known as the "Cam-back."

• 2013: The "Kick Six" game, where Auburn's Chris Davis returned a missed field goal 109 yards for a touchdown on the final play, giving Auburn a 34-28 victory.

Notable Alabama Crimson Tide Players

• Joe Namath, QB, 1962-64: Namath led Alabama to a national championship in 1964 and is one of the most iconic quarterbacks in college and professional football history, later having a Hall of Fame career in the NFL with the New York Jets.

• Derrick Thomas, LB, 1985-88: Thomas was a dominant force on Alabama's defense and set the NCAA single-season sack record in 1988. He went on to have a Hall of Fame career with the Kansas City Chiefs.

• Mark Ingram Jr., RB, 2008-10: Ingram won the Heisman Trophy in 2009, becoming Alabama's first Heisman winner. He played a pivotal role in Alabama's national championship victory that season.

• Bart Starr, QB, 1952-55: Starr led Alabama to several key victories and went on to have a Hall of Fame career in the NFL, winning five NFL championships with the Green Bay Packers, including the first two Super Bowls.

• Julio Jones, WR, 2008-10: Jones was a standout receiver at Alabama, helping the team win the national championship in 2009. He has since become one of the NFL's premier wide receivers.

Notable Auburn Tigers Players

• Bo Jackson, RB, 1982-85: Jackson won the Heisman Trophy in 1985 and is considered one of the greatest athletes of all time. He had successful careers in both the NFL and MLB.

• Cam Newton, QB, 2010: Newton won the Heisman Trophy in 2010 and led Auburn to a national championship that same year. His performance in the Iron Bowl comeback win against Alabama is legendary.

• Pat Sullivan, QB, 1969-71: Sullivan won the Heisman Trophy in 1971 and is one of the most celebrated players in Auburn history, leading the Tigers to several key victories.

• Carnell “Cadillac” Williams, RB, 2001-04: Williams was a standout running back and played a crucial role in Auburn's undefeated season in 2004. He had a successful career in the NFL.

• Tracy Rocker, DT, 1985-88: Rocker was a two-time All-American and won the Lombardi Award and Outland Trophy in 1988. He was a dominant force on Auburn's defense.

1. Michigan vs. Ohio State (The Game)

First Meeting: Oct. 16, 1897, at Regents Field (Michigan 34, Ohio State 0)

All-Time Series Record: Michigan leads the series, 61-51-6

Trophy: None

The Michigan-Ohio State football rivalry, known simply as "The Game," is one of college football's most storied and intense matchups.

Dating back to their first meeting in 1897, this rivalry has grown to embody the pinnacle of college football passion and tradition. The stakes are perpetually high, often determining the Big Ten Conference champion and influencing the national championship picture.

The rivalry reached a fever pitch during the "Ten-Year War" (1969-1978) between legendary coaches Bo Schembechler of Michigan and Woody Hayes of Ohio State. This era epitomized the fierce competition and mutual respect that define The Game. Iconic moments, such as Michigan's 1969 upset victory over top-ranked Ohio State, have cemented the rivalry's legacy.

Players like Desmond Howard, who struck the famous "Heisman pose" against Ohio State in 1991, and Charles Woodson, whose stellar play in 1997 helped Michigan secure a national championship, have left indelible marks on this series.

On the Ohio State side, Heisman winners Archie Griffin and Eddie George have been pivotal in their team's successes.

Key Moments in the Michigan vs. Ohio State Rivalry

• 1969: Bo Schembechler’s Michigan team upset Woody Haye’s top-ranked Ohio State, starting what became known as the “Ten-Year War.”

• 1973: In a controversial ending, the game ended in a 10-10 tie, with both teams finishing the season undefeated. The Big Ten athletic directors voted to send Ohio State to the Rose Bowl, leaving Michigan out of a bowl game.

• 2006: The “Game of the Century” saw No. 1 Ohio State defeat No. 2 Michigan, 42-39, with both teams vying for a spot in the BCS National Championship.

Notable Michigan Wolverines Players

Source: M Live

• Charles Woodson, CB/KR, 1995-97: Woodson won the Heisman Trophy in 1997, becoming the first primarily defensive player to do so. He made significant plays in the 1997 game against Ohio State, including a punt return for a touchdown, which helped secure Michigan's undefeated season and national championship.

• Desmond Howard, WR/KR, 1989-91: Howard won the Heisman Trophy in 1991. He is famous for striking the "Heisman pose" after returning a punt for a touchdown against Ohio State, solidifying his place in college football lore.

• Tom Harmon, HB, 1938-40: Harmon won the Heisman Trophy in 1940. In his final game against Ohio State, he accounted for 5 touchdowns and even received a standing ovation from Buckeye fans, a rare show of respect for a rival.

• Tom Brady, QB, 1996-99: Brady's performances in the Michigan-Ohio State rivalry, during which he was 2-0 as a starter, contributed to his growing reputation as a clutch performer, a trait that would become a hallmark of his illustrious NFL career.

• Jim Harbaugh, QB, 1983-86: Harbaugh, a former player who became head coach at Michigan from 2015-2023, led the Wolverines to a memorable victory over Ohio State in 1986, guaranteeing a win before the game and delivering on his promise.

Notable Ohio State Buckeyes Players

• Archie Griffin, RB, 1972-75: Griffin is the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner (1974, 1975). He played pivotal roles in multiple victories over Michigan and is a legendary figure in Ohio State football history.

• Eddie George, RB, 1992-95: George won the Heisman Trophy in 1995. His performances against Michigan were key to his Heisman campaign, and he left a lasting impact on the rivalry.

• Chris Speilman, LB, 1984-87: Spielman was a two-time All-American and won the Lombardi Award in 1987. He was known for his ferocious play and leadership, especially in rivalry games against Michigan.

• Troy Smith, QB, 2003-06: Smith won the Heisman Trophy in 2006 and had a perfect record against Michigan, including a standout performance in the 2006 "Game of the Century."

• Orlando Pace, OT, 1994-96: A two-time Lombardi Award winner, Pace was a dominant force on Ohio State's offensive line and played a significant role in the Buckeyes' success against Michigan.