Iamaleava was forced to leave the field during UCLA’s 48-14 loss to the Washington Huskies at home in Pasadena. Midway through the third quarter, the Tennessee transfer was sacked on a third-down play. With the Bruins down 27-0, the game was pretty much over. However, fans at the Rose Bowl skipped a beat as Iamaleava came down clutching his neck, raising alarms all around Los Angeles.

Now, the University of California in Los Angeles has learned the latest on Iamaleava’s injury, as the Bruins gear up for their last game of the campaign. Taking none other than crosstown rivals, the USC Trojans, UCLA hopes to end the year with a statement, upset victory at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. On that note, interim head coach Tim Skipper issued a sincere comment on the 21-year-old quarterback.

“Right now, we’re still kind of waiting. [Iamaleava is] doing all his rehab stuff today. We’ll see where he is. I guess the best way to put it right now is he’s day-to-day. That’s where that is with Nico. Nico had some neck spasm stuff happen,” Skipper admitted per On3. “Just kind of got tackled funny. Didn’t calm down enough for him to get back into the game.”

Iamaleava’s numbers

With his availability for Saturday’s game up in the air, Iamaleava could be at risk of missing UCLA’s NCAA season-finale. Thus, we take a look at his numbers during his first season with the Bruins.

So far, Iamaleava has completed 181 passes for 1,728 yards, 12 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions. Moreover, the former Volunteer has been busy on the ground, being the rushing leader in Westwood with 101 carries for 490 yards and 4 touchdowns.

Iamaleava’s first year in UCLA

Needless to say, Iamaleava’s first college football season with the Bruins has been a rollercoaster. UCLA is heading into the final week of the 2025 NCAA campaign with a 3-8 record (3-5 Big Ten). Following an 0-4 start to the year, the school parted ways with head coach DeShaun Foster, leading to a red-hot three-game win streak under the guidance of interim head coach Tim Skipper.

However, the fire has died down on Iamaleava and UCLA’s trail, as they’ve now dropped four straight. Heading into their matchup with the 8-3 (6-2 Big Ten) USC Trojans, the Bruins are determined to change the tune in what will be their final game of the year. A win over their historic rivals could serve as the cherry on top of an otherwise disastrous season for UCLA. Moreover, the chance to spoil the Trojans’ playoff hopes with a road upset provides all the motivation and bulletin-board material Iamaleava and company could ask for.

Riley and the Trojans may have gotten away with an eyebrow-raising decision during USC’s 31-13 victory over Michigan. However, they didn’t stay under the radar too long before the Big Ten intervened.

As reported by CBS Sports, the conference imposed a $5,000 fine on USC for playing running back Bryan Jackson against Michigan. “Jackson was initially listed as ‘out’ on the final availability report before the game,” reporter Richard Johnson stated.

“Jackson did not initially dress for the game, but after injuries to other running backs in the first half of the game, Jackson was medically cleared to play and suited up.”

Riley sets record straight

Jackson’s appearance after halftime during the home win against Michigan made waves all around college football. Riley was asked about the sophomore tail-back during his postgame press conference. According to the fourth-year coach in Southern California, the league was made aware of the situation. The latter states otherwise, though.

“There was an expectation coming into this game that outside of a near catastrophe, we weren’t going to play him,” Riley admitted after the game. “We have a couple injuries that you never expect to happen. Two of them, just like that.

“We were able to get in communication with the league office and explain the situation. Our doctors medically cleared him, and again, it just became a wellness issue for us here. We made sure to clear him. The kid was ready to go and stepped up.“

Insult to injury

To make matters worse for Michigan, what was already a painful road defeat in the Big Ten now casts a cloud of speculation over the program. Jackson registered five carries for 35 rushing yards, numbers that were greatly boosted by his 29-yard touchdown run to put the game away with less than five minutes left in the fourth quarter.

Many may argue the Wolverines didn’t have much of a chance regardless, but it’s hard to deny that Jackson’s controversial call-up played a role in Michigan’s second loss of the 2025 NCAA season and first in league play.

Some college football programs have carved out a unique place in draft history. Producing a No. 1 pick isn’t just about raw talent — it reflects years of recruiting power, coaching stability and the ability to prepare athletes for the biggest stage.

The weight of being chosen first overall goes beyond the spotlight. For many schools, it’s a symbol of tradition, reputation and a lasting pipeline of excellence that stretches from campus fields to professional NFL glory.

Year after year, a select group of programs keeps finding its players atop the board. These schools have transformed draft night into a showcase of dominance, building legacies that stand as proof of their influence in shaping future stars.

Southern California | 6

USC now boasts six No. 1 overall picks in NFL Draft history — the most of any school. From Ron Yary in 1968 and O.J. Simpson’s iconic season a year later, to Keyshawn Johnson, Carson Palmer, and most recently Caleb Williams in 2024, the Trojans have consistently produced players who reach the league’s highest pedestal.

This track record reflects not just individual stars, but a program culture built on elite recruiting, big-stage coaching, and national visibility. Add in multiple Heisman winners and USC has long cemented itself as a pipeline of top-tier talent, carrying with it expectations that few other schools can match.

Georgia | 5

Georgia has produced five No. 1 picks, stretching from the early days of college football to the modern era. Frank Sinkwich (1943), Charley Trippi (1945), Harry Babcock (1953), Matthew Stafford (2009), and Travon Walker (2022) mark milestones in the Bulldogs’ legacy.

Sinkwich’s story remains remarkable: a Heisman winner who led Georgia to dominance despite playing with a broken jaw, he embodied grit as much as talent. After decades of absence, the Bulldogs returned to the top in 2009 with Stafford and again in 2022 with Walker, proof of modern recruiting power, institutional investment, and a renewed rise on the national stage.

Notre Dame | 5

Notre Dame has produced five No. 1 overall picks: Angelo Bertelli (1944), Frank Dancewicz (1946), Leon Hart (1950), Paul Hornung (1957), and Walt Patulski (1972). Each of these players reflects a different era in both college and professional football. Bertelli’s Heisman-winning season set a precedent for excellence, Hornung’s versatility earned him the nickname “Golden Boy,” and Hart dominated as a defensive stalwart before entering the NFL.

Though Patulski faced high expectations that proved difficult to meet in the pros, his selection marked the continuation of Notre Dame’s draft prominence. Over decades, they have maintained a reputation for producing elite talent, blending historical prestige with on-field achievements that made their athletes attractive to NFL teams.

While Notre Dame hasn’t seen a No. 1 pick since 1972, the program’s consistent presence in the first round highlights its enduring influence. With a strong recruiting pipeline and a legacy of developing professional-ready players, the Fighting Irish remain a program capable of shaping top-tier NFL talent for the future.

Oklahoma | 5

Oklahoma also claims five No. 1 overall picks: Lee Roy Selmon (1976), Billy Sims (1980), Sam Bradford (2010), Baker Mayfield (2018), and Kyler Murray (2019). What sets the Sooners apart is not just frequency, but the consistency of producing leaders — particularly quarterbacks in the last 15 years.

Bradford’s rise in Norman, for instance, was punctuated by record-breaking seasons and a Heisman before going first overall in 2010. Coupled with Sims’ explosive runs and the recent quarterback wave of Mayfield and Murray, Oklahoma has proven it can adapt to different eras while maintaining its place as a modern draft powerhouse.

Auburn | 4

Auburn’s football legacy is often remembered for grandeur, but its count of four No. 1 overall picks weaves a tale of peaks and what-ifs. The Tigers first claimed the top spot with Tucker Frederickson in 1965, then Bo Jackson in 1986 — whose blend of speed and power remains part myth. Shortly after came Aundray Bruce in 1988, expected to replicate defensive greatness, and then Cam Newton in 2011, whose perfect 14-0 season and national title led into a dramatic ascent into the NFL spotlight.

What’s striking is the intervals between picks: decades sometimes pass without top selections, yet Auburn’s moments are vivid. They combine individual brilliance with team success, leaving legacies that ripple beyond mere draft status.

Stanford | 4

Stanford may seem more modest in overall No. 1 counts compared to some giants, but its four selections all have their own chapter of drama and expectation.

Starting in 1954 with Bobby Garrett, followed by Jim Plunkett in 1971, then John Elway in 1983, and more recently Andrew Luck in 2012 — each carry different stories. Garrett’s college dominance (including two-way play in early football eras), Plunkett’s later NFL and cultural resonance, Elway’s Hall of Fame career, and Luck’s high expectations epitomize what it means to be picked first from The Farm.

Stanford’s identity here hinges not only on raw talent but on producing quarterbacks whose careers are scrutinized on bigger stages. The Cardinal’s No. 1 picks tend to arrive with national media eyes, lofty expectations, and, in several cases, metrics that set benchmarks for what comes after collegiate success.

LSU | 3

LSU has had three players selected No. 1 overall: Billy Cannon in 1960, JaMarcus Russell in 2007, and Joe Burrow in 2020. Each of those picks reflects a distinct moment: Cannon’s era of bruising two-way play, Russell’s massive hype and ensuing disappointment, and Burrow’s meteoric rise culminating in a national championship and Heisman just before the draft.

LSU’s top-pick story illustrates more than raw scouting. It’s about program pressure, public expectations, and changing systems: how offense vs defense is valued, how media and recruiting shape athlete trajectories. With Burrow especially, LSU isn’t just returning to the pinnacle—it shows how a program can leverage legacy to produce modern superstardom.

Miami (Fla.) | 3

Miami’s trio of No. 1 picks spread across eras and positions: Vinny Testaverde in 1987, Russell Maryland in 1991, and Cam Ward in 2025. Testaverde brought flamboyance and elite college stats; Maryland represented defensive toughness; Ward emerges amid a new chapter where quarterback evaluation combines dual-threat ability, system compatibility, and media scrutiny.

What ties them together is Miami’s reputation for producing impact players who carry not just talent but narratives. From South Florida’s recruiting pipelines to the expectations built by past legends, each No. 1 pick from “The U” comes freighted with more than just draft boards—it’s legacy, geography, hype, and stakes.

Ohio State | 3

The Buckeyes stand out with three No. 1 picks: Tom Cousineau (1979), Dan Wilkinson (1994), and Orlando Pace (1997). Each selection captures different positional dominance: linebacker (Cousineau), defensive tackle (Wilkinson), and offensive tackle (Pace). Ohio State hasn’t been about just QBs or big rushing backs in that top slot—it shows strength in building elite linemen or defenders worthy of the highest billing.

Although Ohio State produces many first-round talents almost every year, having three top overall picks underscores the program’s capacity to develop players whose blend of size, athleticism, durability, and reputation compel teams to use their very first draft choice on them. It’s not always flashy; sometimes it’s the groundwork in weight rooms, coaching, and visibility that pays off.

Texas | 3

The Longhorns boast three first overall picks as well: Tommy Nobis in 1966, Earl Campbell in 1978, and Kenneth Sims in 1982. Texas’ names reveal its strengths: Nobis as linebacker cornerstone, Campbell as one of the most brutal power backs in football history, Sims as an edge rusher/tackle from a sharp defensive front.

Texas’ era of dominance in the ’70s and early ’80s aligns with these selections. The program’s prestige, media attention, and bottleneck in high school recruiting in Texas itself made these No. 1 picks part of broader cultural narratives—not just for the school, but for state pride. Though they haven’t landed one recently, the Longhorns’ earlier picks still cast long shadows in NFL lore.

The landscape of college sports is built on more than championships—it thrives on rivalries that have shaped generations. From historic gridiron clashes to hardwood duels, these contests extend far beyond the scoreboard.

What begins as a matchup often grows into a tradition, blending athletic brilliance with cultural identity. Rivalries create defining images—crowded stadiums, unforgettable plays, and the roar that lingers long after the final whistle.

Some battles span decades, rooted in geography, pride, or sheer competitiveness. They remain fixtures of the college calendar, where stakes go beyond trophies and the meaning of victory reaches something larger than sport.

Duke vs. North Carolina

Few rivalries capture the soul of college basketball like Duke vs. UNC. The two schools, separated by just 10 miles, have been colliding since 1920, producing unforgettable moments, legendary coaches, and a string of NBA-ready stars.

What makes it different is not only the elite level of play, but also the cultural proximity — Chapel Hill and Durham live side by side, fueling a year-round tension that transcends the hardwood.

And while basketball defines the rivalry, the passion extends to football as well, embodied in the “Victory Bell,” a trophy that symbolizes just how far the competition stretches between the two schools.

Michigan vs. Ohio State

Known simply as The Game, Michigan vs. Ohio State is as much about regional pride as it is about football. Dating back to 1897, the matchup has often decided conference championships, national rankings, and coaching legacies.

The rivalry hit peak intensity during the “Ten-Year War,” when coaches Bo Schembechler and Woody Hayes turned every clash into a test of grit, strategy, and sheer willpower.

What keeps the matchup timeless is its consistency: almost always closing out the regular season, often with Rose Bowl implications, and more recently, shaping the College Football Playoff picture.

Army vs. Navy

The Army–Navy Game is more than football — it’s tradition, service, and a celebration of values that stretch beyond sport. First played in 1890, it represents the ultimate clash of two academies with a shared mission but fierce pride in their colors.

At West Point and Annapolis, this isn’t just a rivalry — it’s a showcase of discipline, loyalty, and honor. Every snap feels weightier, as the game becomes a reflection of the institutions themselves.

The contest often closes the regular season in December, set apart from the noise of other rivalries, and is marked by pageantry that underscores the respect both sides carry once the final whistle blows.

California vs. Stanford

On the West Coast, few matchups embody tradition like Cal vs. Stanford. Their first meeting in 1892 gave birth to The Big Game, a rivalry that has carried unforgettable chapters, from stolen trophies to the iconic “The Play” in 1982.

The Stanford Axe, the rivalry’s trophy, is as coveted as the victory itself, often fueling pranks and school-wide rituals in the build-up to kickoff. More than a game, The Big Game is a cultural event in the Bay Area. Alumni and students alike mark it on the calendar, turning the contest into a symbol of pride, legacy, and identity.

Oklahoma vs. Texas

More than a century old, the Red River Rivalry has roots in border identity and bragging rights. First played in 1900, the match graduates every season into a spectacle at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas—neutral ground that intensifies every cheer, every turnover.

Texas leads the all-time series, but Oklahoma has held its own in recent decades, especially since the turn of the millennium. What started as lopsided wins for the Longhorns gradually gave way to tighter contests, upsets, and national stakes.

Beyond the field, this game blends pageantry and regional pride: the river separating the states, the divided stadium, legendary coaches, and the notion that, win or lose, neither side walks away the same.

Alabama vs. Tennessee

This Southern rivalry is anchored by time as much as by territory. Known simply as The Third Saturday in October, Alabama vs. Tennessee has been played annually since the early 20th century, often in that exact month, becoming one of college football’s defining traditions.

Alabama leads the series comfortably, though Tennessee has landed memorable punches—not just upsets, but moments of momentum, often turning this matchup into a hinge for the SEC standings.

What sets this contest apart is the culture around it: stadiums swelling with orange and crimson uniforms, familiar faces in coaching legends (Bear Bryant, Robert Neyland), and a date on the calendar that carries a promise—whatever else the season brings, this game matters.

Kentucky vs. Louisville

In Kentucky, basketball is religion—and at its center is the Cardinals vs. Wildcats rivalry. Though the two programs first met in 1913, the rivalry lay dormant at various points until it blossomed again in the early 1980s and particularly after Rick Pitino moved from Kentucky to Louisville.

Kentucky has historically held the edge overall, but Louisville has had bursts—tournament upsets, signature wins, and moments that demanded the rivalry be noticed even outside the state. The intensity isn’t always reflected in national rankings, but is felt in every tip-off, late-game foul, and passionate crowd.

The rivalry transcends the court: it’s embedded in statewide identity, alumni pride, recruiting battles, and even legislative moments. In many ways, it shows how deeply sport can map onto geography and culture in a place where two major universities compete for many of the same hearts.

Alabama vs. LSU

This match-up—between the Crimson Tide and the Tigers—has been one of college football’s fiercest in recent decades. Since 1895, the teams have met many times, but the rivalry’s modern heat grew especially after the 1960s, when both programs became national powerhouses in the SEC.

Games here are often defensive slugfests, or explosive showdowns, with national rankings on the line. Overtime games, dramatic finishes, and breathtaking comebacks have become part of the lore.

What’s compelling is how the rivalry reflects shifts in dominance—Alabama had long stretches of control, but LSU has had its moments (and upsets) that remind everyone that within a storied program, no lead is permanent.

Clemson vs. South Carolina

A fierce in-state rivalry, Clemson vs. South Carolina stretches back to 1896, and for decades it was anchored by its own traditions—the State Fair, “Big Thursday,” alternating campuses, etc.

Though Clemson has held the overall series lead by a large margin, many of the games have carried outsized emotional weight: tight finishes, upsets, controversial calls, games that decided bowl eligibility or bragging rights more than anything.

This matchup exists not just in football. It spills into all sports, into civic identity, and for many residents, it’s the yearly benchmark—how the season went depends a little on how the Tigers and Gamecocks squared off. The Palmetto Bowl name and trophy are recent formalizations, but the intensity has been sustaining for over a century.

Indiana vs. Purdue

In Indiana, the most prized piece of hardware isn’t flashy — it’s a battered wooden bucket. Since 1925, the Old Oaken Bucket has gone to the winner of Indiana vs. Purdue, a rivalry that began decades earlier in 1891.

Though Purdue has dominated historically, the series carries emotional weight for both programs. The bucket, with a chain of bronze “I” or “P” links added after each game, makes the rivalry uniquely tangible — a running record of who claimed state pride each fall.

It’s a contest rooted in state identity. For decades, this has been the game that defines football bragging rights in Indiana, a tradition that still thrives no matter where either team sits in the standings.

NC State vs. UNC

Though overshadowed nationally by UNC’s rivalry with Duke, NC State vs. UNC runs deep, fueled by proximity, school identity, and recruiting battles within North Carolina. Football clashes have been played since 1894, making it one of the state’s longest rivalries.

The name “Textile Bowl” reflects the universities’ historical ties to textile research, but on the field, it’s about pride. The games often feature tension-filled finishes and occasionally season-defining upsets.

From the tailgates to the postgame debates, this rivalry sits at the heart of North Carolina sports culture, balancing academic respect with fierce athletic competition.

Pitt vs. West Virginia

Few nicknames describe a rivalry better: Pitt and West Virginia are only 75 miles apart, and their “Backyard Brawl” has burned with intensity since 1895. The matchup hit its peak in the late 2000s, particularly in 2007 when unranked Pitt stunned No. 2 West Virginia, shattering the Mountaineers’ national title hopes in one of the rivalry’s most famous games. The series paused after conference realignment in 2012 but was revived in 2022, reigniting one of college football’s fiercest and most personal rivalries.

Oregon vs. Washington

Oregon and Washington’s football clash dates to 1900 and has grown into one of the Pac-12’s most defining rivalries. The two schools, separated by less than 300 miles, battle annually with both regional bragging rights and national stakes at play.

The rivalry features bad blood — from disputed plays in the 1940s to heated recruiting battles in the modern era. Washington long dominated, but Oregon’s rise in the 2000s flipped the balance, fueling bitterness on both sides. Recent years have only heightened the drama, with playoff implications and close finishes adding new layers to a century-old border war.

Mississippi State vs. Ole Miss

In Mississippi, Thanksgiving weekend belongs to one thing: the Egg Bowl. Since 1901, Ole Miss and Mississippi State have battled for state supremacy in a rivalry that often defies national context.

The “Golden Egg” trophy was introduced in 1927 to reduce postgame fights between fans. Ironically, the intensity has only grown — producing unforgettable moments like overtime thrillers, shocking upsets, and infamous celebrations. For Mississippi, this game isn’t just about football. It divides families, towns, and loyalties, creating a cultural showdown unlike any other.

Notre Dame vs. USC

One of college football’s great interregional rivalries, Notre Dame vs. USC links the Midwest to the West Coast. First played in 1926, the annual matchup has featured Heisman winners, national titles, and iconic stadiums: South Bend’s Notre Dame Stadium and Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.

It’s a rivalry of contrasts — Catholic tradition versus Hollywood glamour, snowy Novembers versus sun-drenched Octobers. The clash has produced countless classics, including the famed “Bush Push” in 2005.

For nearly a century, the rivalry has represented the best of college football pageantry, bridging two coasts and two cultures in one of the sport’s most enduring showdowns.

Miami vs. Florida State

Few rivalries match the swagger of Miami vs. Florida State. First played in 1951, it surged in intensity during the 1980s and ’90s, when both programs were national contenders and the matchup often carried championship implications.

The series is remembered for its drama: wide-right and wide-left missed kicks, defensive slugfests, and Heisman-level performances. Each chapter seemed to build the legend of a rivalry that defined an era of college football. Even as the programs have shifted in prominence, the matchup remains electric, with talent, pride, and the memory of past battles always on the line.

Alabama vs. Auburn

The Iron Bowl is more than Alabama vs. Auburn — it’s the defining rivalry of the Deep South. Since 1893, the two programs have battled for supremacy in a game that often determines SEC titles and national championship aspirations.

The rivalry has produced unforgettable moments, from the “Punt Bama Punt” shocker in 1972 to the legendary “Kick Six” in 2013, when Auburn returned a missed field goal for a game-winning touchdown.

Dividing households and entire towns in Alabama, the Iron Bowl is the state’s cultural centerpiece — a collision of crimson and orange that leaves no neutral ground.

UCLA vs. USC

In Los Angeles, college football loyalty splits between cardinal and gold or blue and gold. The USC Trojans and UCLA Bruins have shared a city — and the Rose Bowl stage — since their first clash in 1929.

The rivalry is unique in its geography: both schools once shared the Coliseum as their home field, making every game feel like a city civil war. Beyond football, it extends to basketball, baseball, and recruiting, creating an all-sport intensity.

At its heart, UCLA vs. USC is about identity in Los Angeles — Hollywood glamour vs. academic prestige, tradition vs. underdog fight. It’s as much a cultural clash as it is an athletic one.

Harvard vs. Yale

Among the oldest rivalries in American sports, Harvard vs. Yale has been played since 1875 and is simply known as The Game. For generations, it has symbolized the Ivy League at its fiercest, pitting academic elites against one another on the gridiron.

While the programs no longer contend for national titles, the rivalry remains steeped in tradition: marching bands with satirical halftime shows, alumni gatherings, and packed stadiums that honor a century and a half of history.

“The Game” carries a prestige that transcends football rankings. It’s about legacy, ritual, and the enduring place of sport in the culture of two of America’s oldest universities.

Texas vs. Texas A&M

Few rivalries are as tied to state pride as Texas vs. Texas A&M. First played in 1894, the game was an annual Thanksgiving tradition for over a century, before pausing in 2011 when A&M moved to the SEC.

The series is marked by tradition — from Aggie bonfires to Longhorn pageantry — and by drama, including last-second field goals and season-spoiling upsets. The rivalry is set to return in 2024, reigniting old animosities.

In Texas, loyalty is inherited: maroon or burnt orange, Aggie or Longhorn. This isn’t just a game; it’s a clash that divides families and defines generations.

Florida vs. Georgia

First officially played in 1904 (or 1915, depending on historians), Florida vs. Georgia has been contested almost every season since the mid-1920s. The two Southeastern Conference (SEC) giants meet annually in Jacksonville, a neutral site that has become nearly sacred for this matchup.

The rivalry is rich with streaks—periods of dominance by one side, dramatic upsets, and games that define seasons. One of its more peculiar aspects: while it’s fought in the heart of the South, it often feels detached, insulated by decades of neutral-site tradition.

Over time, Florida-Georgia has grown beyond just football. Tailgates, charged fan bases, and cultural identity between the two states fuel every October’s meeting. Even when one team has a down year, this game still draws eyes, because it matters for legacy as much as for wins.

Michigan vs. Michigan State

Dating back to October 12, 1898, Michigan vs. Michigan State is one of those intrastate rivalries where history and proximity combine to create intense competition. The Paul Bunyan Trophy, a large wooden statue of a lumberjack, sits at stake each fall for the winner, embodying that old frontier symbolism.

Michigan historically has held the upper hand, leading the series by a wide margin. But Michigan State has had its share of landmark moments, upsets, and seasons when the Spartans’ victories have shaken the Big Ten landscape.

The rivalry resonates beyond the gridiron. From recruiting wars across Michigan, to basketball and other sports, alumni and fans often see this matchup as a statement game — not just for the season, but for university pride.

Minnesota vs. Wisconsin

Whenever Minnesota meets Wisconsin, it’s not merely a contest — it’s the oldest continuously played Division I Football Bowl Subdivision rivalry. Their first clash was November 15, 1890, and apart from one pause in 1906, they have met every year since.

The trophy, Paul Bunyan’s Axe, was introduced in 1948 and has become a symbol of border pride in the Upper Midwest. Remarkably, the all-time series is tied as of late 2024 (63-63-8), a testament to how evenly matched these two have been over long stretches. Long win streaks swing back and forth, making each game unpredictable despite the familiarity.

This is more than a Big Ten fixture — it’s a seasonal ritual. The matchup often closes out the season for one or both, with paddock folklore, frozen tailgates, and the physical weather itself almost a player in its own right.

Missouri vs. Kansas

The Missouri Tigers vs. Kansas Jayhawks rivalry goes back to 1891 in football, and even earlier in other sports. Known variably as the Border War or Border Showdown, it is one of the oldest west of the Mississippi. Historical roots stretch beyond athletics — tied to the pre-Civil War border conflicts, so every matchup carries echoes of regional identity and past feuds.

Conference realignment paused regular play after Missouri left the Big 12 in 2012, but renewal games in both basketball and football in recent years have shown that the rivalry has lost none of its bitterness or meaning.

Every time they meet, Kansas vs. Missouri tends to deliver: pivotal moments, big upsets, and games where fans on both sides remind each other just how much this matchup means.

BYU vs. Utah

BYU vs. Utah is, for many, among the most emotionally loaded rivalries in the West. While it doesn’t have quite the same national cachet in every season, when it matters, no crowd, no slogans, no tradition outdoes The Holy War.

Beyond the often contentious games themselves — marked by dramatic finishes, shifts in conference power, and recruiting battles — this matchup defines life in Utah-based college football: both schools draw from overlapping recruiting pools, share much of their fan base geography, and contrast cultural identities in ways that make the rivalry personal.

Virginia vs. Virginia Tech

Dating back to 1895, Virginia vs. Virginia Tech has carved out over 100 meetings, with Virginia Tech currently leading the all-time football series. Their clash is formalized by the Commonwealth Cup, established in the mid-1990s, but the rivalry’s value lies in the cumulative shared history across sports.

The two universities, though both in Virginia, have contrasting origins, fan cultures, and trajectories in major sports — all of which feed into what this game means: pride, prestige, and bragging rights in a state with multiple loyalties.

In recent years, Virginia Tech has been dominant, with long winning streaks. But when UVA wins, it is often a major catharsis, a reversal of expectations, and a moment that reverberates beyond the scoreboard.

Watkins will be sidelined for the 2025-26 season, which will open the door for different players to give something extra to the team. During her two years in Los Angeles, the 6-foot-2 guard has grown a lot, and her growth has helped some of her teammates become better.

Malia Samuels has been by her side during this period, watching Watkins deal with all the pressure and expectation that come with being one of the most exciting prospects in women’s basketball.

JuJu Watkins’ teammate explains the biggest lesson she learned from the guard

During a recent conversation with Chloe Clark on the latter’s YouTube channel, Williams detailed how Watkins deals with the pressure that not many could take, especially at her age.

“Just the way that she handles like all the outside noise and all the pressure and still comes as her best self and um, keeps her composure every day. It’s amazing,” Samuels said.

She added that when she’s in private with teammates, Watkins doesn’t hide her personality and acts like her normal self.

“Like she’s one of us, like she’s joking around with us and you know, there’s people probably in her comments that are talking, people in her DMs that are talking crazy. So just to, just to see that she handles pressure so well and is able to show up as her best self is something that I really commend her for and something that I’ve learned from her,” Samuels explained.

The Trojans will miss her on the court, but Watkins can still make an impact from the sideline. Hopefully, it won’t be much longer before she can get back to what she does best.

What started as a run in which Watkins could go at it against Paige Bueckers again ended with the Trojans losing 78-64 to the UConn Huskies in the Elite Eight. They are preparing for a new season, and one of the biggest questions they’ll have to answer will be about who will take over from Watkins.

The 6-foot-2 guard averaged 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.2 steals and 1.8 blocks in her sophomore season, leading the Trojans to a 29-3 record before she went down early on in the Mississippi State game. While the expectations might not be the same at the beginning, USC could find a new spark with a freshman ready to dominate the competition.

USC Trojans’ freshman projected to take over from JuJu Watkins

While it’s well known that JuJu Watkins is a generational talent, the Trojans might have an ace up their sleeve for the upcoming season. Jalon Dixon of “USC Trojans on SI” writes that freshman guard Jazzy Davidson is set to lead the team this campaign.

She’s coming off a gold medal win at the FIBA U19 World Cup in the Czech Republic, where she averaged 14 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists and 3.1 steals per game.

“Her all-around game—scoring, facilitating, and defending—stood out on a roster full of elite prospects. At 6-1, her size and versatility allow her to impact multiple positions, and she flashed the maturity to lead on both ends of the floor,” he said.

Dixon adds that her international experience wasn’t a surprise for many. She only confirmed what people were expecting from her. Watkins’ absence will always be serious for the Trojans, but they have a new talented face ready to lead the charge.

Unfortunately, an ACL injury derailed her plans and Watkins will miss the 2025-26 NCAA season while her Trojans battle to return to the national tournament. Meanwhile, the sophomore guard is spending time watching younger players and she has identified one who could make a strong impact on the game soon.

Watkins, who averaged 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.2 steals and 1.8 blocks last season, knows there is a generation of players who can elevate the game even more.

JuJu Watkins commends high school player

Watkins attended an Overtime girls’ squad event in June, where she had the chance to watch and coach talented high school players. During a conversation with Jordyn Palmer, a high school player who played in front of Watkins during that event, the USC star lauded a five-star prospect in the 2027 class.

Palmer asked Watkins which players she watched at the OT’s event grabbed his attention, with the Los Angeles native going with Jezelle Banks.

“I think GG (Jezelle Banks),” Watkins said. “She’s just super tough, shifty, and crafty. I’m excited to see her play again.”

Jezelle Banks is a guard for St. James Performance Academy who participated in the OT Select Championship with Team YGE. She scored 51 points in three games, making a solid impression on Watkins and others.

Watkins led the team to a 29-3 record (17-1) before she suffered the season-ending injury, averaging 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.2 steals and 1.8 blocks per game, shooting 42.6% from the field, 32.5% from deep and 82% from the free-throw line.

Her impact can’t be felt only on the court, but in the recruitment department, too. Watkins’ young career has already inspired other prospects to join her at the Galen Center. While she won’t be out there with the rest of her teammates, Watkins has made a strong impact on them.

Saniyah Hall explains how JuJu Watkins prompted her to join USC

JuJu Watkins helped the women of Troy secure a major signing ahead of the 2025-26 season. Saniyah Hall, the No. 1 prospect in the 2026 class, explained to No Cap Space WBB the role Watkins played in her decision to join USC.

“Juju’s such an amazing person,” Hall said. “She was an amazing coach at the time. She’s such a players’ coach, if she were ever to be like a real one. I just feel like we had so much fun there and we really bonded. That was part of me joining USC.”

She added that Lindsey Gottlieb’s presence also helped her make this decision, as they have a long-time relationship.

“I just think Coach Lindsey, you know, she’s been there for me ever since freshman year, always stayed in contact with me. Building that relationship since day one is very key,” she said.

Hall is a major addition to the Trojans, who appear to be closer to the national championship each year.

Watkins played 33 games during her sophomore campaign, averaging 23.9 points, 6.8 rebounds, 3.4 assists, 2.2 steals and 1.8 blocks per game. She was a do-it-all player once again, leading her squad to a 28-3 record in the regular season.

The eventual national champions eliminated the women of Troy, the UConn Huskies, in the Elite Eight, when Watkins was already sidelined with an ACL tear in her right knee. They are set to clash again in the upcoming season, but JuJu may not be available for that matchup either.

NCAA analyst details impact of JuJu Watkins’ absence on USC’s chances

College basketball analyst Tee Baker detailed how Watkins’ absence would affect this game, especially the head-to-head matchup with Huskies star Azzi Fudd. He told “The Hoops Cap” host Mark Zanetto on Friday:

“It’s unfortunate because I feel like the JuJu Watkins-Azzi (Fudd) angle is right there,” Baker said. “JuJu’s hurt, so she won’t be able to participate in it. It’s like ships in the night with those two because we won’t get that moment.”

Just like Paige Bueckers, Watkins will miss significant time with an injury. She will return for the 2026-27 campaign, hoping to pick up right where she left off. The Trojans have a superstar on the roster, but they will have to figure things out without her on the court.

Alijah, the son of former NBA All-Star Gilbert Arenas, was expected to have a prominent role with the USC Trojans. Now, he will miss at least six to eight months with a knee injury.

That has put him in a tough spot. On the one hand, he could opt to redshirt this season. But as Alexander O’Reiley of Sportskeeda points out, it will all depend on his plans for the NBA Draft.

Alijah Arenas could sit out the whole year

“By medically redshirting, he can sit out the entire season and retain four years of eligibility. That would also remove any risk of Arenas rushing back to play before he is fully recovered from his injury,” O’Reilly wrote. “The biggest reason Alijah Arenas would not choose to redshirt would likely be if he is not planning to stay in college for four years.”

Needless to say, declaring for the NBA Draft after missing his freshman season could take a huge toll on his draft stock. He graduated early, so he could technically sit out the season and still be good.

Then again, his injury timeline puts him on track to suit up and play in the final stretch of the campaign and in the NCAA Tournament, although that might not be the wisest decision.

According to a report by Kendra Andrews of ESPN, she just put pen to paper with a deal with Unrivaled, the new 3-on-3 women’s basketball league that debuted last season.

Watkins, who fell with a season-ending injury during March Madness, will headline a list of 13 young college basketball stars who will eventually join the league.

JuJu Watkins signs deal with Unrivaled

“Unrivaled announced 13 new NIL deal signings, headlined by USC’s JuJu Watkins, UCLA’s Lauren Betts, Notre Dame’s Hannah Hidalgo and UConn’s Azzi Fudd,” wrote Andrews. “Sarah Strong (UConn), Olivia Miles (TCU), Madison Booker (Texas), Kiki Rice (UCLA), MiLaysia Fulwiley (LSU), Audi Crooks (Iowa State), Ta’Niya Latson (South Carolina), Syla Swords (Michigan), and Sienna Betts (UCLA) are also signing NIL deals with the three-on-three league.”

Of course, it will be a while before we get to watch Watkins dominate there. She’s not a pro yet, and she will most likely miss the entire season as she continues to nurse her knee.

But one thing’s for sure: Watkins is one of the future faces of the women’s basketball scene, and it only made sense that they got her locked in sooner rather than later.