Comparing Texas A&M and Arkansas: A Closer Look
Texas A&M and Arkansas are two of the most storied college football programs in the United States. Both teams have a long and rich history, and have been playing against each other since 1903. In this article, we will be taking a closer look at the rivalry between the two teams, and examining the history, current standings, and future of the rivalry. Additionally, we will be discussing the impact the rivalry has had on their respective fan bases, and the importance of the game to each team.
History of the Texas A&M vs Arkansas Rivalry
The rivalry between Texas A&M and Arkansas dates back to the early 1900s. The first game between the two teams was played in 1903, with Texas A&M winning the inaugural contest 15-7. Since then, the two teams have gone on to play each other regularly, with the most recent match-up occurring in 2018. Over the years, the rivalry has been known for its hard-fought battles, intense atmosphere, and memorable moments. The rivalry has also seen its fair share of ups and downs, with both teams having periods of dominance over the other.
In the early days of the rivalry, Arkansas was the dominant team, winning 13 of the first 16 games between the two teams. However, after the 1920s, the tide began to turn in Texas A&M’s favor, as the Aggies went on to win 11 of the next 12 games. The rivalry truly began to heat up in the 1960s and 70s, as both teams experienced periods of success. During this time, the two teams played in some of the most memorable games in the history of the rivalry, including the 1968 “Game of the Century” in which Arkansas beat Texas A&M 14-7.
The Current State of the Rivalry
In recent years, the Texas A&M vs Arkansas rivalry has been much more competitive. Since the turn of the century, the two teams have split the series 9-9, with Texas A&M holding a slight edge. The two teams have also gone on to play in some big games, including the 2007 “Miracle on Markham” in which Texas A&M upset Arkansas in the final seconds of the game. The most recent game between the two teams took place in 2018, with Texas A&M coming away with a 24-17 victory.
The current state of the rivalry is largely determined by the success of each team. As of late, Texas A&M has been the more successful program, with the Aggies having won 10 of the last 14 games against Arkansas. The two teams are also currently in different conferences, with Texas A&M playing in the SEC, and Arkansas in the Big 12. This has resulted in the two teams being unable to play each other regularly, as they are only able to meet in non-conference matchups, or bowl games.
The Impact of the Rivalry on the Fan Bases
The Texas A&M vs Arkansas rivalry has had a profound impact on the fan bases of both teams. For Texas A&M fans, the rivalry has become a source of pride, as they have had success against their in-state rivals in recent years. The rivalry also serves as a reminder of the Aggies’ storied history, as they have been playing Arkansas since the early 1900s.
For Arkansas fans, the rivalry is a source of frustration and disappointment. The Razorbacks have not had much success against the Aggies in recent years, and have not been able to live up to the standard of success set by the teams of the past. The rivalry also serves as a reminder of the past, as Arkansas has not been able to replicate their success from the 1960s and 70s.
The Future of the Rivalry
The future of the Texas A&M vs Arkansas rivalry is uncertain, as the two teams are currently in different conferences. However, the two teams could potentially meet in non-conference matchups, or bowl games in the future. Additionally, the two teams could potentially play each other in the playoffs if one of them qualifies.
No matter what the future holds for the rivalry, it is certain that the game will continue to be a memorable event for both fan bases. The rivalry is one of the oldest in college football, and it has been a source of pride and frustration for both teams for more than a century. As long as the two teams continue to play each other, the rivalry will remain one of the most important in college football.
Conclusion
The Texas A&M vs Arkansas rivalry is one of the oldest and most storied in college football. The two teams have a long and rich history, and have been playing against each other since 1903. In recent years, the rivalry has become much more competitive, as the two teams have split the series 9-9 since the turn of the century. The rivalry has also had a profound impact on the fan bases of both teams, with each side having periods of dominance over the other. As the two teams continue to play each other, the rivalry will remain one of the most important in college football.
