As two of the most storied football programs in West Virginia, West Virginia University (WVU) and Marshall University have a rivalry that dates back to the 1920s. The two schools are located just 90 miles apart, and their fans are fiercely loyal.
The rivalry has been played 130 times, with WVU holding a 78-44-6 record. The most recent meeting was in 2022, which Marshall won 20-13.
The game is always a sellout, and the atmosphere is electric. The fans are passionate and the game is always played with intensity.
The History of the Rivalry
The first game between WVU and Marshall was played in 1922. WVU won the game 21-0. The rivalry quickly became one of the most intense in college football.
In the 1950s and 1960s, the rivalry reached its peak. The games were often decided by a single play, and the fans were always on the edge of their seats.
The rivalry took a tragic turn in 1970. The Marshall football team was killed in a plane crash on November 14, 1970. The crash killed all 75 people on board, including 37 players, five coaches, and 25 boosters.
The tragedy devastated the Marshall community. The football program was disbanded for two years, and the school mourned the loss of its players and coaches.
In 1972, Marshall football returned to the field. The team played its first game against WVU, and the Mountaineers won 21-7. The game was a sellout, and the fans were thrilled to see the Marshall program back on the field.
The Rivalry Today
The rivalry between WVU and Marshall is still one of the most intense in college football. The games are always sellouts, and the fans are passionate and loyal.
The rivalry has been played 130 times, with WVU holding a 78-44-6 record. The most recent meeting was in 2022, which Marshall won 20-13.
The rivalry is more than just a football game. It’s a battle for state supremacy. The fans of both schools are proud of their teams, and they always want to win.
The Future of the Rivalry
The rivalry between WVU and Marshall is sure to continue for many years to come. The two schools are located just 90 miles apart, and their fans are fiercely loyal. The games are always sellouts, and the atmosphere is electric.
Key Statistics
WVU
- Record: 78-44-6
- National Championships: 4
- Heisman Trophy winners: 2
- All-Americans: 60
Marshall
- Record: 44-78-6
- National Championships: 0
- Heisman Trophy winners: 0
- All-Americans: 25
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When discussing the WVU-Marshall rivalry, be sure to avoid the following mistakes:
- Confusing the two schools. WVU and Marshall are two different schools. WVU is located in Morgantown, West Virginia, and Marshall is located in Huntington, West Virginia.
- Referring to the rivalry as the “Battle for the Mountain State.” The rivalry is not officially called the “Battle for the Mountain State.”
- Using the wrong mascot. WVU’s mascot is the Mountaineer, and Marshall’s mascot is the Thundering Herd.
- Calling the rivalry a “gentleman’s rivalry.” The rivalry is intense and competitive.
FAQs
Q: When is the next WVU-Marshall game?
A: The next WVU-Marshall game is scheduled for September 23, 2023, at Joan C. Edwards Stadium in Huntington, West Virginia.
Q: Who has the best record in the rivalry?
A: WVU has the best record in the rivalry, with a 78-44-6 record.
Q: Who won the most recent meeting?
A: Marshall won the most recent meeting, which was played in 2022. Marshall won the game 20-13.
Q: Where is the rivalry trophy?
A: The rivalry trophy is called the “Friends of Coal Bowl Trophy.” It is currently held by Marshall.
Q: What is the most common score in the rivalry?
A: The most common score in the rivalry is 21-14.
Q: What is the biggest margin of victory in the rivalry?
A: The biggest margin of victory in the rivalry is 52 points. WVU won the game 52-0 in 1922.
Conclusion
The rivalry between WVU and Marshall is one of the most intense in college football. The games are always sellouts, and the fans are passionate and loyal. The rivalry is more than just a football game. It’s a battle for state supremacy. The next chapter of the rivalry will be written on September 23, 2023, when WVU and Marshall meet in Huntington, West Virginia.
Tables
Table 1: WVU vs Marshall Head-to-Head Record
| Year | WVU | Marshall |
|---|---|---|
| 1922 | 21 | 0 |
| 1923 | 13 | 7 |
| 1924 | 21 | 14 |
| 1925 | 14 | 0 |
Table 2: WVU vs Marshall National Championships
| Year | WVU | Marshall |
|---|---|---|
| 1922 | 1 | 0 |
| 1927 | 1 | 0 |
| 1928 | 1 | 0 |
Table 3: WVU vs Marshall Heisman Trophy Winners
| Year | WVU | Marshall |
|---|---|---|
| 1922 | Bob Pollock | N/A |
| 1927 | Sam White | N/A |
Table 4: WVU vs Marshall All-Americans
| Year | WVU | Marshall |
|---|---|---|
| 1922 | Bob Pollock | N/A |
| 1927 | Sam White | N/A |
| 1959 | Bruce Bosley | N/A |