College football rivalries spark epic showdowns—think Alabama versus Auburn, Ohio State versus Michigan, or Miami versus Florida. Yet, the Kansas-Missouri clash, dubbed the Border War, often flies under the radar. This neglect dismisses a 134-year-old feud that deserves its place among the sport’s elite rivalries.

Missouri’s 2012 leap from the Big 12 to the SEC paused this historic matchup. The Tigers haven’t played Kansas on the gridiron since 2011 or visited Kansas’ Farout Field since 2006. Still, the rivalry’s roots dig deep. Born in 1891, it thrives on cultural divides. Missouri, once a slave state, collided with Kansas, which rejected slavery. This tension fuels a fierce competition that still delivers heart-pounding games, even as history softens the original strife.

Rivalries are one of my favorite aspects of college football. It doesn’t matter how well your season is going; when Mizzou plays Kansas, either team can win or lose. Look at last year’s Michigan-Ohio State clash: Michigan, mired in a rough season, stunned the Buckeyes, who later claimed the national title. That’s the magic of rivalry week—any team can seize victory on any given day.

Missouri has long ruled the Border War, often entering as the favorite. This Saturday’s clash, however, promises a nail-biter.

Mizzou’s coach, Eli Drinkwitz, acknowledges the challenge posed by Kansas’ quarterback Jalon Daniels, who blends a powerful arm with elusive running behind a stout offensive line. The Tigers’ defense faces a daunting task. At a press conference earlier this year, Drinkwitz stressed his desire to pressure Daniels without relying on exotic blitzes. This Saturday’s game will test that strategy.

Missouri will win if running back Ahmad Hardy shines and the offensive line, led by left tackle Cayden Green, sharpens up after mistakes against Central Arkansas. Green, still settling into his role, must anchor the line to pave the way for Hardy’s runs. Meanwhile, the defensive front must rattle Daniels’ rhythm to seal the win.

The Border War may not draw ESPN’s GameDay spotlight, but for Missouri and Kansas fans, it pulses with unmatched passion and tradition. This Saturday, Kansas and Mizzou will deliver a showdown that fans will enjoy.