The Return of a Storied Rivalry

This Saturday, the Missouri Tigers and Kansas Jayhawks will face off on the football field for the first time since 2011. The rivalry, steeped in history dating back to the Civil War, is one of the most intense in college sports. Known as the Border Showdown, this game is more than just a match—it's a battle for pride, history, and bragging rights.

A History of Hostility

The rivalry between Mizzou and Kansas traces its roots to the 19th century, with both schools' nicknames derived from Civil War terminology. The Jayhawks were known for raiding pro-slavery settlements in Missouri, while the Tigers were a group of soldiers who defended Columbia from Confederate guerrillas. This historical animosity has carried over into the modern era, making every matchup a heated affair.

Memorable Moments in the Rivalry

Over the years, the Mizzou-Kansas rivalry has produced some unforgettable games:

• 1911: The Birth of Homecoming The first homecoming game in college football history took place between Mizzou and Kansas, ending in a 3-3 tie. This game set the stage for a tradition that continues to this day.

• 1960: Kansas Stuns No. 1 Mizzou In one of the biggest upsets in the rivalry, Kansas defeated the top-ranked Tigers 23-7, derailing Mizzou's national championship hopes.

• 2007: The Battle for No. 1 In a historic game at Arrowhead Stadium, No. 3 Mizzou defeated No. 2 Kansas 36-28, briefly claiming the top spot in the national rankings.

The Modern Era

After Mizzou left the Big 12 for the SEC in 2012, the rivalry was put on hold. However, the animosity never faded. Fans on both sides have eagerly awaited the return of this matchup, and this Saturday’s game promises to reignite the flames of this storied rivalry.

What to Expect This Saturday

The atmosphere in Columbia will be electric as fans from both sides pack Memorial Stadium. With both teams looking to make a statement, this game is sure to be a hard-fought battle. As Mizzou coach Eli Drinkwitz said, "There's a lot of hate, and whether it's been basketball games that we've seen or soccer matches or now football games, we know it's important to the fan base."

Looking Ahead

This game is just the beginning of a renewed rivalry. Mizzou and Kansas have scheduled future matchups in 2026 and 2031, ensuring that this historic rivalry will continue to captivate fans for years to come.

Conclusion

The Mizzou-Kansas rivalry is more than just a game—it's a clash of history, pride, and passion. As the two teams take the field this Saturday, fans can expect a game that lives up to the legacy of this storied rivalry.