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Ole Miss/Bama Game: Always a Good Time Despite Outcome
Despite the final score, Ole Miss’ representation in Tuscaloosa was a huge success. The amount of navy worn and “Hotty Toddys” shouted in the Quad, in Bryant-Denny Stadium and on the Strip last Saturday had to be shocking to some Alabama fans.
Some people may wonder why Rebel fans would make the three-hour drive to watch a predicted upset against the SEC’s number-one team. But for a majority of Rebs, it’s not even a question. For some, maybe it’s the relationships connecting them to Alabama, and for others, maybe the beautiful atmosphere of the University of Alabama. But for most, it’s their loyalty to the Ole Miss football team that brings them to Tuscaloosa for one of the most well-known rivalries in SEC football.
Ole Miss senior Jack Gentry proudly exclaimed his love for Tuscaloosa and the people in it.
“It is my favorite school to travel to because the competitive history between Ole Miss and Alabama always makes for a fun atmosphere and a good game,” Gentry said.
However, the 63-point defeat by Alabama on Saturday made for a less exciting four quarters than in years past. The rival teams’ roles have essentially reversed, from Ole Miss’ back-to-back domination in 2014 and 2015 to Alabama’s big wins the past two years. It may be frustrating for us Rebel fans to see the disturbing outcome of Saturday’s game, but there is no doubt that the attendance and school spirit will be the same, if not stronger in years to come.
This rivalry dates all the way back to Oct. 27, 1894, when the Rebels defeated the Crimson Tide 6-0. On that day, the competitive relationship between the two teams was born and continues to resonate in 2017. After 65 games between these two SEC schools, Alabama leads the series 53-10-2.
But history goes to show that no matter the numbers on the scoreboard, Rebel fans never fail to take pride in their team. Road Rebs will travel near and far to watch their beloved team fight for their right to stand tall, especially when the stakes are high. The Alabama/Ole Miss rivalry is one that will forever bring a high level of intensity both on the field and in the stands. And as a fan, what more could you ask for than a game with this amount of energy?
Mackenzie Tranberg is an intern for HottyToddy. She can be reached at mctranbe@go.olemiss.edu.