Paul Finebaum Names the Best Neutral-Field Rivalry in College Football, Sparking Debate
In the world of college football, rivalries are the lifeblood that fuels the sport’s most intense moments. Every season, fans wait with bated breath for these storied matchups, where bragging rights and championships are often on the line. Some of these rivalries, however, play out on neutral ground, heightening the tension as neither side holds the “home advantage.” Recently, ESPN analyst and college football pundit Paul Finebaum stirred the pot by declaring his pick for the best rivalry game played on a neutral field, and unsurprisingly, it has ignited heated debate among fans.
Finebaum, known for his polarizing takes, named the annual clash between the Texas Longhorns and the Oklahoma Sooners in the Red River Showdown as the pinnacle of college football rivalries played on neutral ground. Hosted at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, Texas, this game takes place in the heart of the Texas State Fair, creating a unique carnival-like atmosphere that is hard to replicate elsewhere. Finebaum argued that the history, tradition, and sheer animosity between these two programs elevate this rivalry above all others.
However, not everyone is on board with Finebaum’s choice. Critics argue that other rivalries deserve the crown, with some pointing to the Georgia vs. Florida “World’s Largest Outdoor Cocktail Party” held annually in Jacksonville, Florida. Georgia and Florida fans contend that their rivalry is more intense, as it directly impacts SEC East standings and, consequently, College Football Playoff hopes. The Jacksonville clash, they argue, is a more “pure” rivalry game with a location that is truly neutral, unlike the Red River Showdown, which skews geographically closer to Oklahoma.
Then there’s the Army-Navy game, a matchup that goes beyond football and transcends college athletics. Played in various neutral locations, typically along the Eastern Seaboard, the Army-Navy game is a celebration of service and camaraderie among future military officers. For many, this game symbolizes the ultimate rivalry—one built on respect rather than animosity, which makes it unique and deeply cherished in American sports culture.
But Finebaum remains steadfast in his pick, emphasizing that the Texas-Oklahoma rivalry boasts an atmosphere and history that are unmatched. Dating back over a century, the Red River Showdown has become a cultural institution, with moments like the infamous “5th Down” or Roy Williams’ “Superman” play forever etched in college football lore. And while some rivalries rely heavily on postseason implications, Finebaum argues that Texas-Oklahoma transcends rankings and records, capturing the essence of college football’s unpredictable, impassioned spirit.
The debate, as expected, has ignited social media, with fans across the nation expressing their opinions. Texas and Oklahoma supporters applauded Finebaum’s pick, citing the game’s electrifying atmosphere and the deep-rooted tension between the schools. On the other hand, Georgia and Florida fans took to Twitter to air their grievances, asserting that Jacksonville’s showdown is unfairly overlooked in the rivalry hierarchy. Navy and Army supporters, too, voiced frustration, pointing out that their rivalry encompasses a level of patriotism and tradition unmatched by any other game.
So, is Finebaum right? Does the Red River Showdown truly reign supreme, or is he just feeding into his own brand of controversy? The answer depends on who you ask—and therein lies the beauty of college football. Rivalries are deeply personal and are as much about the fans as they are about the players on the field. Whether it’s in Dallas, Jacksonville, or Philadelphia, each of these rivalries brings a unique flavor to the college football landscape, reminding us all why we fell in love with the game in the first place.
For now, Finebaum’s declaration keeps the discussion alive and well. As college football evolves, it’s safe to say that rivalries like Texas-Oklahoma, Georgia-Florida, and Army-Navy will only grow stronger, sparking debates for decades to come.