Ranking the Best College Football Rivalries: Alabama-Auburn and Oregon…
College football rivalries are the lifeblood of the sport, infusing the game with passion, tradition, and fierce competition. These matchups transcend sports and become cultural touchstones for the regions and schools involved. Among the most iconic rivalries in college football, two stand out not only for their intensity but also for their long-standing traditions: the Iron Bowl between the University of Alabama and Auburn University, and the rivalry between the University of Oregon and the University of Washington. Both games are a celebration of what makes college football so special—community pride, unmatched history, and the thrill of the unexpected.
As college football enters another exciting season, it’s time to reflect on these two rivalries—each distinct in its own right but equally vital to the sport’s heartbeat. Here’s a breakdown of these legendary matchups, exploring their history, significance, and the fierce competition that defines them.
1. The Iron Bowl: Alabama vs. Auburn
The Iron Bowl—the name itself evokes images of a heated, high-stakes showdown. Played annually between the University of Alabama Crimson Tide and the Auburn University Tigers, this rivalry is one of the fiercest and most storied in college football. The significance of this matchup extends far beyond the game itself; it represents a battle for pride, supremacy, and bragging rights in the state of Alabama.
A Historical Foundation
The first meeting between Alabama and Auburn occurred in 1893, and since then, the rivalry has grown into one of the most important matchups in college football. The term Iron Bowl originated in the 1960s, referencing the industrial history of Alabama’s iron and steel industry, which both universities had ties to. This rivalry is more than just a football game; it is a representation of the cultural divide between the two schools—Alabama, known for its dominant football legacy and statewide influence, and Auburn, a fiercely competitive program with a passionate fanbase.
Over the years, the rivalry has witnessed unforgettable moments, including last-minute victories, Heisman Trophy-winning performances, and national championship implications. But it’s not just about the trophies; it’s about the community. For many, the outcome of the Iron Bowl feels like a personal victory or defeat. Families are divided, friendships are tested, and every play carries monumental weight.
The Passion and Intensity
What sets the Iron Bowl apart from many other college football rivalries is the intensity that defines the entire week leading up to the game. The city of Birmingham, often considered the epicenter of the rivalry, feels electric as the teams prepare for battle. The ferocity on the field mirrors the emotions of the fans, who often view this game as a year’s worth of pride, joy, or heartbreak compressed into 60 minutes.
The rivalry has been marked by some of the most dramatic finishes in football history. The 2013 “Kick Six” remains one of the most electrifying moments, when Auburn’s Chris Davis returned a missed 57-yard field goal attempt for a touchdown, securing an improbable victory. These moments of surprise and drama are part of what makes the Iron Bowl one of the most thrilling games of the season.
National Implications
In addition to the pride factor, the Iron Bowl has had a significant impact on the national college football landscape. For decades, both Alabama and Auburn have been top contenders for SEC titles and playoff spots. This makes the outcome of the Iron Bowl all the more important. On several occasions, the winner of this game has gone on to play for the national championship, adding a layer of national interest to an already intense rivalry.
2. The Apple Cup: Oregon vs. Washington
Not far from the heated rivalry of the Iron Bowl is the Pacific Northwest’s own college football showdown: College football rivalries are the lifeblood of the sport, infusing the game with passion, tradition, and fierce competition. These matchups transcend sports Washington. Known as the Apple Cup, this rivalry has been contested since 1900 and has evolved into one of the most electrifying matchups in the Pac-12, if not all of college football. While the schools are geographically separated by just over 200 miles, the intensity of their competition is anything but small.
Early Beginnings
The origins of the Oregon-Washington rivalry can be traced back to the early 20th century, with both programs vying for dominance in the Pacific Northwest. Washington, historically one of the premier programs in the region, initially held the upper hand in the rivalry, but over the years, Oregon has emerged as a powerful force in college football, especially under head coach Chip Kelly in the late 2000s and early 2010s.
While the geographical proximity between the two schools fuels the rivalry, it is also fueled by the success of both teams. Over the past few decades, Oregon has established itself as a national powerhouse, especially with its high-octane, fast-paced offense. Meanwhile, Washington, with its own proud tradition of success, has remained competitive, creating an atmosphere of mutual respect and animosity that only amplifies the intensity of their annual clash.
The Modern Rivalry
What makes the Oregon-Washington rivalry particularly intriguing in the modern era is the contrasting styles of play. Oregon is often associated with a high-tempo, spread offense designed to wear down opponents, while Washington has historically relied on a more balanced, physical style of football. This stylistic contrast adds another layer of intrigue to an already compelling rivalry.
In recent years, both programs have returned to prominence. Oregon’s return to national contention has made the rivalry more competitive, and Washington’s resurgent program under coach Chris Petersen (and later Jimmy Lake) has helped keep the rivalry heated. The intensity is particularly palpable when both teams are vying for a spot in the College Football Playoff or a prestigious bowl game.
The Apple Cup on the National Stage
Similar to the Iron Bowl, the outcome of the Oregon-Washington game has often carried national significance. For many years, the Apple Cup has determined which team would claim the top spot in the Pac-12 North division and often had an indirect impact on playoff positioning. In addition to the rivalry, both programs have been known for producing NFL-caliber talent, and the stakes are high as the game is watched by national audiences.
The 2019 edition of the Apple Cup was particularly memorable, as both teams were ranked, and the contest had implications for the Pac-12 championship. Washington narrowly defeated Oregon, but the game’s intensity was a testament to how far the rivalry had come.
Comparison and Conclusion
When comparing these two historic rivalries, it becomes clear that both are unique in their own right. The Iron Bowl is a fierce contest of tradition, pride, and dominance, with national championship implications often on the line. The rivalry’s intensity is amplified by the rich cultural history of Alabama, where the game feels more like a statewide event than just a sporting contest.
Meanwhile, the Apple Cup represents the growing competitiveness of college football in the Pacific Northwest. While it may not have the same deep-rooted historical significance as the Iron Bowl, the Apple Cup boasts an exciting clash of styles and passionate fanbases. The geographical proximity and the contrast between the programs’ styles of play make it one of the most exciting rivalries on the West Coast.
In the end, both of these matchups embody the spirit of college football—a mix of emotion, tradition, and passion that continues to thrill fans every season. Whether it’s the Iron Bowl’s thunderous clashes or the Apple Cup’s high-stakes drama, these games are not just games; they are defining moments in the lives of students, alumni, and fans alike. The rivalry between Alabama and Auburn and the Oregon-Washington showdown will continue to shape the landscape of college football for years to come.
