Baseball is one of the most beloved sports in America. From the Major Leagues to college baseball, fans are always eager to watch their favorite teams hit the diamond. One of the most exciting games in college baseball is the matchup between Ole Miss and Southern Miss. This rivalry game has been played for decades and always brings out the best in both teams. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history of this rivalry, what makes it so special, and why fans can’t get enough of it.
The History of the Ole Miss vs Southern Miss Rivalry
The Ole Miss vs Southern Miss rivalry dates back to the 1950s when both teams were in the Mississippi Intercollegiate Conference. However, it wasn’t until the 1970s that the rivalry really began to heat up. During this time, both teams were consistently ranked in the top 25 and were competing for conference championships. In 1977, the rivalry reached a fever pitch when Ole Miss defeated Southern Miss in the NCAA Regional Tournament, knocking them out of the playoffs.
Since then, the rivalry has only continued to grow. The two teams have played each other over 100 times, with Ole Miss leading the series by a narrow margin. Each game is highly anticipated by fans and players alike, and the atmosphere at Swayze Field (Ole Miss’ home stadium) is always electric when Southern Miss comes to town.
What Makes the Ole Miss vs Southern Miss Rivalry So Special?
There are many factors that make the Ole Miss vs Southern Miss rivalry so special. For one, the two schools are located less than 100 miles apart, making it easy for fans to travel to games. Additionally, both schools have passionate fan bases that take great pride in their baseball teams. The rivalry has also been fueled by the fact that both teams have had a lot of success over the years. Both Ole Miss and Southern Miss have made multiple appearances in the NCAA Tournament and have produced many talented players who have gone on to play in the Major Leagues.
Another factor that makes this rivalry so special is the atmosphere at the games. Swayze Field is one of the best college baseball stadiums in the country, and when Southern Miss comes to town, the energy in the stadium is palpable. Fans from both schools pack the stands, and the rivalry is always intense. The players can feel the energy from the crowd, which only adds to the excitement of the game.
Recent Matchups Between Ole Miss and Southern Miss
The most recent matchup between Ole Miss and Southern Miss took place on March 9, 2021. The game was played at Swayze Field, and Ole Miss came out on top with a score of 6-2. It was a hard-fought game, with both teams playing well, but Ole Miss was ultimately able to pull ahead in the later innings. This win was especially sweet for Ole Miss fans, as Southern Miss had won the previous matchup between the two teams.
Overall, the rivalry between Ole Miss and Southern Miss is one of the most exciting in all of college baseball. Fans from both schools look forward to these games every year, and the players know that they’re in for a tough battle every time they take the field. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just a casual observer, there’s no denying that the Ole Miss vs Southern Miss rivalry is something special.