Recent coverage indicates that several of the sport’s longest-running rivalries continue to influence national discussions in measurable ways. Each series carries a distinct history that reflects early program development, regional dynamics, and changes in competitive structure over time.
Historic Battle for Big Ten Supremacy
The rivalry between Ohio State and Michigan began in 1897, with early matchups driven by regional competition and the expanding influence of Midwestern football. The series grew significantly in the twentieth century, especially during the Ten-Year War of the 1970s under coaches Bo Schembechler and Woody Hayes. Those seasons cemented the matchup’s role in determining Big Ten titles and shaping national polling outcomes.
Ohio State–Michigan remains one of the most influential matchups in college football, especially for bettors tracking upcoming NCAA football games. Early betting odds already reflect the razor-thin margin between the rivals, as sportsbooks factor in Ohio State’s 9–0 undefeated run against Michigan’s 8–1 record and strong efficiency metrics. With the Nov. 29 showdown carrying playoff implications and the potential to trigger complex Big Ten tiebreak scenarios, the betting market is monitoring every shift leading up to kickoff.
Coast-to-Midwest Intersection of Tradition
University of Southern California (USC) and Notre Dame launched their rivalry in 1926 after discussions led by Knute Rockne and USC administrators seeking a national opponent. The matchup gained immediate prominence due to its cross-regional nature and the rapid rise of both programs. Notable games in the 1930s and 1940s helped expand national media coverage as each school pursued championship aspirations.
For the upcoming matchup, Notre Dame has adjusted its depth chart with significant shifts at center and wide receiver following injury setbacks. Simultaneously, USC Trojans published game notes for their Oct. 14 meeting with Notre Dame, highlighting the rivalry’s continued relevance. The game is poised to influence midseason momentum for both programs, so this season’s edition could serve as a key indicator of their evolving competitive statuses.
State Fair Showpiece of Southwestern Football
The rivalry between Texas and Oklahoma began in 1900 and became a permanent fixture at the Texas State Fair when the matchup moved to a regular annual slot in 1929. The neutral-site setting and consistently high attendance helped expand media attention as the event grew into a central feature of the regional sports calendar. Mid-century dominance under Bud Wilkinson at Oklahoma and Darrell Royal at Texas further elevated the series as both programs rose to national prominence.
With both programs now fully integrated into the SEC schedule, this season’s Texas–Oklahoma meeting takes on new context. Texas enters with returning production at several offensive spots, while Oklahoma focuses on rebuilding its defensive rotation following significant departures. The matchup is anticipated to play a decisive role in early conference standings and may again influence national playoff discussions depending on each team’s start to the season.
Deep South Clash for Statewide Authority
Alabama and Auburn first competed in 1893, beginning a rivalry shaped by regional politics and rapidly expanding public interest. A longstanding dispute over officiating and expenses suspended the series until it resumed in 1948. The rivalry later influenced national standings during the 1970s when Alabama teams under Bear Bryant regularly competed for championships, elevating each meeting in public significance.
This season’s edition between the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Auburn Tigers is already generating attention as Alabama holds the No. 4 spot in the latest playoff rankings. At the same time, Auburn’s 2025 roster entered early review stages via public portal and signing updates. This Week’s NCAAF Props on FanDuel show the rivalry again has the potential to influence postseason outlooks, particularly if Auburn enters with momentum.
Mountain Rivalry Rooted in Regional Identity
The Utah–Brigham Young University (BYU) rivalry began in 1896 and grew from cultural and institutional differences that shaped its early character. The matchup gained regional prominence throughout the twentieth century as both programs expanded their football profiles and built competitive traditions. By the latter half of the century, the game frequently influenced conference standings and became a central event in state sports coverage.
Recent developments reflected changes linked to conference realignment, including Utah’s transition from the Pac-12 to the Big 12. The 2021 meeting marked Utah’s ninth consecutive win before BYU began strengthening its roster and preparing for future scheduling shifts. Additional conference changes in 2023 and 2024 kept the rivalry in public focus as both institutions evaluated long-term football planning within evolving competitive landscapes.
Time-Honored Battles With Lasting Influence
These rivalries continue to shape national discussion by linking historical significance with current competitive trends. Each rivalry has been shaped by regional identity, institutional growth, and early developments in conference structure. In addition, key turning points involving championship stakes, coaching eras, and pivotal plays have reinforced their prominence across multiple generations.
More recently, heightened interest has followed roster adjustments, staff changes, and evolving postseason implications. Looking ahead, continued realignment and expanded playoff formats are expected to keep these rivalries prominent in national discussion.
