Rivalry between the Gophers and the Hawkeys is one of the best in college football

There’s a saying in Minnesota called “Minnesota nice,” which means that Minnesotans are unusually polite, respectful, and just generally good people.

There are always a few exceptions to the rule, though – and one of them is when the Gophers and the Hawkeyes meet on the football field. With the Floyd of Rosedale trophy – and a year’s worth of bragging rights – on the line, all those nice guys are gone. They’re now a group that bleeds maroon and gold and loathes anyone who wears black (even Caitlin Clark).

To be honest, I had no idea about this rivalry when I arrived in Minnesota. As for out-of-state rivals, I only knew the usual ones: Florida-Georgia, Ohio State-Michigan, and my favorite, Oregon-Washington. I knew that these rivalries often go beyond the level of respectability; you only have to look at social media to confirm that.

However, I’m told the fight for the pig was just as personal, just as intense, and most likely involved more alcohol. Except for Florida-Georgia, I might agree with that last part. But I’m skeptical about the rest.

Ohio State and Michigan have played each other for more than 125 years and are two of the most storied teams in history. Oregon and Washington have played each other for almost as long and have often raised national fears since the turn of the century.

So my question was: How does a Midwestern rivalry—between two teams that have barely made a New Year’s Day bowl game since 2000, let alone finished in the top five nationally— stack up against the big leagues?

Take a trip to Huntington Bank Stadium in Minneapolis when the Hawkeyes come to town. That’s where you’ll get the answer.

University Avenue, the main street that runs through campus, is dotted with fraternity houses proclaiming their feelings for Iowa — and an illegal fair catch. A mile from the stadium, fans lined the streets, dressed in maroon and gold, drinking and shouting. If you happened to be wearing anything other than yellow and black, you were yelled “Minnesota nice.” If not, you best keep your head down and keep walking.