From the contentious delay of the first clash in 1901 to the most recent battle in 2006, The Egg Bowl covers the Ole Miss-Mississippi State rivalry in depth. For each game the narrative includes every scoring drive, every player who crossed the goal line, and every final score. More than sixty photos illustrate the intensity of action on the field and capture the players and exploits faithful fans will always remember.
For the booster who demands to know every statistic, The Egg Bowl creates the ultimate reference. Which player has scored the most touchdowns? Who rushed for the longest run or threw the longest touchdown pass? How many kickoffs have been returned for touchdowns? Why is November 30 of consequence? Which two men have coached at both schools? And surprisingly, which three players have lettered at Mississippi State and Ole Miss?
The intensity of the rivalry cannot be understated. Student leaders created the treasured Golden Egg, trophy of the yearly contest, to quell frequent fisticuffs in the stands. While intended to cool the fervor, the Egg has been controversially remodeled, refurbished, and even kidnapped. The story continually simmers. This ideal gift for the football fanatic will only stoke those passions.
William G. Barner, a graduate of University of Mississippi, is a retired advertising writer and lives in Atlanta, Georgia.
