The intense rivalry between the University of Missouri and the University of Kansas, often called the Border War, is one of the oldest and most heated rivalries in college sports. Stemming from the states' opposing stances during the Civil War, the Missouri vs. Kansas matchups in football and basketball are especially fierce, embodying a deep-seated historical animosity. (needs verification)
A History of the Border War
The roots of the Missouri vs. Kansas rivalry run far deeper than sports, tracing back to the mid-19th century and the period known as Bleeding Kansas. This era saw pro-slavery Missourians and anti-slavery Kansans engaging in violent clashes over whether Kansas would enter the Union as a free or slave state. These conflicts fostered a lasting animosity that has permeated nearly every aspect of life in the two states, including their athletic competitions.
The Bleeding Kansas Era
The phrase "Bleeding Kansas" refers to the violent political confrontations between 1854 and 1861 over the legality of slavery in the Kansas Territory. The Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854 allowed residents of the new territories to decide on the issue of slavery through popular sovereignty. This sparked a rush of pro-slavery and anti-slavery settlers into Kansas, each hoping to sway the vote. The resulting tensions led to widespread violence, including raids, sieges, and massacres. Some key events during this period include:
- The Sack of Lawrence (1856): Pro-slavery activists attacked and ransacked the abolitionist town of Lawrence, Kansas.
- The Pottawatomie Massacre (1856): Abolitionist John Brown and his followers killed five pro-slavery settlers in retaliation for the Sack of Lawrence.
- The Marais des Cygnes Massacre (1858): Pro-slavery partisans murdered five anti-slavery men near the Marais des Cygnes River.
These and other violent episodes created a legacy of bitterness and distrust between Missouri and Kansas that continues to resonate today. The Border War, as it is known in sports, is a direct reflection of this historical conflict.
Early Football Games
The football rivalry between Missouri and Kansas began in 1891, making it one of the oldest in college football. The early games were often brutal and fiercely contested, reflecting the deep-seated animosity between the two states. For decades, the annual matchup was a significant event, drawing large crowds and generating intense local interest. The games were more than just sporting events; they were symbolic battles in the ongoing Border War.
Basketball Becomes a Battleground
While football laid the foundation for the rivalry, basketball intensified it. Both Missouri and Kansas have storied basketball programs with passionate fan bases. Games between the two schools are typically sold out and feature an electric atmosphere. The intensity on the court is matched by the fervor in the stands, making it one of college basketball's most anticipated matchups.
Memorable Moments in the Rivalry
Over the years, the Missouri vs. Kansas rivalry has produced countless memorable moments, from stunning upsets to dramatic finishes. These games have not only shaped the history of the two programs but have also become part of the broader cultural fabric of the region.
The Flea-Kicker Game (1997)
One of the most iconic moments in the football rivalry came in 1997 when Missouri defeated Kansas 24-20 in Columbia. The game is best remembered for a trick play known as the "Flea-Kicker," in which quarterback Corby Jones lateraled the ball to receiver Harold Strozier, who then tossed it back to Jones for the game-winning touchdown. The play showcased the creativity and daring that often characterize rivalry games.
The Border Showdown (2007)
In 2007, the football rivalry reached new heights when both Missouri and Kansas were ranked among the top teams in the nation. The game, dubbed the "Border Showdown," was played in Kansas City and drew national attention. Missouri, ranked No. 1 at the time, defeated No. 2 Kansas 36-28 in a thrilling contest that solidified the rivalry's place on the national stage. — Punta Cana Weather In November: What To Expect
Heated Basketball Clashes
The basketball rivalry has seen its share of memorable moments as well. Games between Missouri and Kansas are often close, hard-fought battles that come down to the wire. The intensity of these matchups is amplified by the passionate fan bases and the knowledge that bragging rights are on the line. From buzzer-beaters to dominant performances, the basketball rivalry has provided plenty of excitement for fans of both schools.
The Hiatus and Renewal of the Rivalry
In 2012, the Missouri vs. Kansas rivalry was put on hiatus when Missouri left the Big 12 Conference to join the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The move was met with disappointment from fans who cherished the annual matchups. However, in recent years, efforts have been made to renew the rivalry, with occasional non-conference games being scheduled in both football and basketball.
Missouri's Move to the SEC
Missouri's decision to leave the Big 12 Conference was driven by a desire for greater financial stability and access to a larger media market. While the move was beneficial for the university's athletic department, it came at the cost of ending many long-standing rivalries, including the Border War with Kansas. Fans on both sides mourned the loss of the annual matchups and hoped for a future renewal.
Efforts to Revive the Rivalry
Despite the conference separation, there have been ongoing efforts to revive the Missouri vs. Kansas rivalry. Non-conference games have been scheduled in both football and basketball, providing fans with a taste of the old intensity. These games have been well-attended and have generated significant interest, demonstrating the enduring appeal of the rivalry. However, many fans long for the days when the Border War was an annual event with conference implications.
The Future of the Border War
The future of the Missouri vs. Kansas rivalry remains uncertain. While non-conference games have helped to keep the spirit alive, the rivalry lacks the same intensity and meaning it once had. Some have suggested that the two schools should explore the possibility of a more permanent arrangement, such as an annual series of games that would count towards their records. Ultimately, the future of the Border War will depend on the willingness of both schools to prioritize the rivalry and find a way to make it work within the context of their respective conference affiliations.
Impact on Fans and the Community
The Missouri vs. Kansas rivalry has a profound impact on fans and the broader community. For many, it is more than just a game; it is a deeply personal and emotional experience that connects them to their school and their state. The rivalry also has economic implications, as games between the two schools generate significant revenue for local businesses and contribute to the overall vibrancy of the region.
Passionate Fan Bases
Both Missouri and Kansas have incredibly passionate fan bases that are deeply invested in the rivalry. Fans on both sides take the games seriously and are willing to go to great lengths to support their teams. From tailgating before games to wearing team colors to attending watch parties, fans embrace the rivalry as a central part of their identity. The intensity of the fan support adds to the excitement and atmosphere of the games. — Days Until April 6, 2025? Countdown And More
Economic Benefits
The Missouri vs. Kansas rivalry also has significant economic benefits for the local communities. Games between the two schools draw large crowds, which translates into increased revenue for hotels, restaurants, and other businesses. The rivalry also generates media attention, which can help to promote the region and attract tourists. In addition, the success of the athletic programs at Missouri and Kansas can boost the schools' reputations and attract talented students and faculty.
A Source of Community Pride
Beyond the economic benefits, the Missouri vs. Kansas rivalry serves as a source of community pride. The games provide an opportunity for people to come together and celebrate their shared identity as Missourians or Kansans. The rivalry also fosters a sense of camaraderie and friendly competition, which can help to strengthen the bonds between communities. While the rivalry can be intense, it is ultimately a celebration of the spirit of sportsmanship and the importance of community.
FAQ About the Missouri vs. Kansas Rivalry
Why is the Missouri vs. Kansas rivalry called the Border War?
The Missouri vs. Kansas rivalry is called the Border War because it originated from the conflicts between the states during the Bleeding Kansas era in the mid-19th century, when pro-slavery Missourians and anti-slavery Kansans fought over whether Kansas would become a free or slave state. This historical conflict set the stage for a heated and enduring rivalry in sports and other aspects of life.
When did the football rivalry between Missouri and Kansas begin?
The football rivalry between Missouri and Kansas began in 1891. This makes it one of the oldest rivalries in college football. From the start, these games were intensely competitive, reflecting the deep-seated animosity between the two states.
What was the Flea-Kicker game in the Missouri vs. Kansas rivalry?
The Flea-Kicker game refers to a memorable football game in 1997 where Missouri defeated Kansas 24-20. The game is famous for a trick play called the "Flea-Kicker," where the quarterback lateraled the ball to a receiver, who then tossed it back to the quarterback for the game-winning touchdown.
Why did Missouri leave the Big 12 Conference in 2012?
Missouri left the Big 12 Conference in 2012 primarily for greater financial stability and access to a larger media market by joining the Southeastern Conference (SEC). While beneficial for the university's athletic department, this move ended many long-standing rivalries, including the annual Border War games with Kansas.
How have the efforts been to revive the Missouri vs. Kansas rivalry?
Despite Missouri's move to the SEC, there have been ongoing efforts to revive the rivalry through non-conference games in both football and basketball. These games have drawn significant interest and attendance, highlighting the enduring appeal of the Border War, even without conference implications.
What impact does the Missouri vs. Kansas rivalry have on fans and the community?
The Missouri vs. Kansas rivalry has a profound impact on fans and the community, serving as more than just a game. It is an emotional experience that connects people to their school and state. The rivalry also provides economic benefits through increased revenue for local businesses and fosters community pride and camaraderie.
Will Missouri and Kansas ever be in the same conference again?
It is uncertain whether Missouri and Kansas will be in the same conference again, as conference affiliations can change due to various factors like realignment and strategic goals. While the desire to renew the Border War is strong, the logistical and political aspects of conference membership would need to align for this to happen. — Data Account Coordinator In Moore: What You Need To Know
Where can I find updates and news about future Missouri vs. Kansas games?
Updates and news about future Missouri vs. Kansas games can typically be found on the official athletic websites of both the University of Missouri and the University of Kansas, as well as major sports news outlets like ESPN, CBS Sports, and local news stations covering sports in Missouri and Kansas.
