Gridiron Legacies: The LSU-Tulane 'Battle for the Rag' Explored
Delve into the rich history and enduring significance of one of Louisiana's most storied college football rivalries, examining its origins, traditions, and pivotal moments.
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Defining the Rivalry
A Storied Louisiana Contest
The "Battle for the Rag" formally designates the intense college football rivalry between the Louisiana State University (LSU) Tigers and the Tulane University Green Wave. This historic contest, deeply embedded in Louisiana's athletic heritage, has been a prominent fixture in American college football, with a legacy spanning over a century since its inception in 1893. Across 98 encounters, it has consistently showcased the competitive spirit of these two institutions.[2][3]
Shared Conference Affiliations
A significant aspect of this rivalry's historical depth lies in the shared conference memberships of LSU and Tulane. Both universities were integral parts of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association (SIAA) from 1899 to 1920, and later the Southern Conference from 1922 to 1932. Notably, they were also charter members of the Southeastern Conference (SEC), competing together from 1932 until 1966. This prolonged period within the same athletic frameworks naturally intensified their rivalry, fostering a deep-seated competitive tradition.
The Trophy's Significance
At the heart of the "Battle for the Rag" lies its distinctive trophy: a satin flag known as the "Tiger Rag" by LSU and the "Victory Flag" by Tulane. This unique emblem serves as the tangible symbol of supremacy in this rivalry, representing not just a win, but a claim to bragging rights and historical continuity. The flag itself is a testament to the rivalry's rich traditions, embodying the spirit of competition between these two Louisiana powerhouses.[4]
The Coveted 'Rag'
Symbol of Supremacy
The trophy flag, a piece of satin, is meticulously designed to represent both institutions and the state of Louisiana. It is diagonally divided, featuring the distinct logos of each school on opposing sides. At its center, the Seal of Louisiana is prominently displayed, underscoring the regional pride inherent in this contest. LSU's specific moniker for the trophy, the "Tiger Rag," is derived from the popular tune of the same name, a staple performed by the Louisiana State University Tiger Marching Band, further intertwining the trophy with LSU's vibrant traditions.[4]
Origins and Evolution
The original trophy flag was introduced in 1940, primarily with the intention of fostering good sportsmanship between the rival teams. This initiative was likely a direct response to escalating tensions between fan bases, which notably culminated in a riot following Tulane's victory in 1938. Tragically, this original symbol of the rivalry was believed to have been lost in a fire at Tulane's University Center in 1982. However, in a commendable effort to preserve tradition, LSU and Tulane collaborated in 2001 to reconstruct the flag, meticulously recreating it based on archival photographs, thus ensuring the continuation of this cherished tradition.[5]
A Century of Competition
Early Encounters & Milestones
The rivalry commenced on November 25, 1893, with Tulane securing a decisive 34โ0 victory in New Orleans. Over the decades, the series witnessed numerous memorable moments. A particularly notable event occurred in 1963, when the game was one of only five across the nation that was neither canceled nor postponed following the assassination of President John F. Kennedy the day prior, highlighting the deep-seated commitment to the fixture. The series also includes two instances (1896 and 1901) where LSU was declared the winner by forfeit, altering the initial on-field results.
Shifting Landscapes
The athletic landscape of both universities significantly influenced the rivalry's trajectory. Their shared membership in the SIAA, Southern Conference, and particularly as charter members of the SEC until 1966, ensured frequent and high-stakes matchups. However, Tulane's departure from the SEC in 1966, and subsequent shifts in scheduling priorities, led to periods of reduced frequency in the rivalry. These changes underscore how broader collegiate athletic realignments can impact even the most traditional of contests, altering the rhythm and intensity of long-standing rivalries.
Series Dynamics
Overall Record
Over the 98 games played in this historic rivalry, Louisiana State University has established a significant lead in the all-time series. The current record stands at LSU with 69 victories, Tulane with 22 victories, and 7 tie games. This translates to a winning percentage of .740 for LSU, reflecting a period of sustained dominance by the Tigers in this particular matchup.[1]
Memorable Victories & Streaks
The rivalry has been punctuated by several decisive performances. LSU holds the record for the largest victory, a commanding 62โ0 win over Tulane in 1958. Furthermore, LSU currently maintains the longest and ongoing winning streak in the series, having defeated Tulane in 18 consecutive games since 1983. This streak highlights a prolonged period where LSU consistently outperformed its cross-state rival, contributing significantly to their overall series lead.[1]
The Modern Era & Its End
A Brief Resurgence
After a hiatus in yearly play since 1994, the "Battle for the Rag" was officially renewed in 2006. This renewal brought the rivalry back to an annual schedule, much to the anticipation of fans from both universities. The teams competed yearly from 2006 through the 2009 season, rekindling a tradition that had been a cornerstone of Louisiana college football for decades. This period offered a brief but intense return to the regular competition that defined much of their shared history.
Financial Discontinuation
The renewed series, however, was cut short. In 2009, it was announced that LSU would pay Tulane $700,000 to terminate the remaining six years of their home-and-home series agreement. LSU's rationale was that it would be more advantageous for all future games to be played in Baton Rouge. While Tulane agreed to this early termination, a subsequent agreement for a future game to be played in New Orleans has, to date, not been fulfilled by LSU. This financial arrangement effectively brought an end to the regular annual competition, marking a significant shift in the rivalry's modern trajectory.[6][7]
Comprehensive Game Log
A detailed record of all 98 contests in the LSU-Tulane football rivalry.
Game Results Summary | ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
LSU Victories | Tulane Victories | Tie Games | ||
No. | Date | Location | Winner | Score |
1 | November 25, 1893 | New Orleans | Tulane | 34โ0 |
2 | October 26, 1895 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 8โ4 |
3 | October 24, 1896โ | New Orleans | LSU | 6โ0 |
4 | December 17, 1898 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 37โ0 |
5 | December 8, 1899 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 38โ0 |
6 | November 17, 1900 | New Orleans | Tulane | 29โ0 |
7 | November 16, 1901โ | New Orleans | LSU | 11โ0 |
8 | November 19, 1904 | New Orleans | Tulane | 5โ0 |
9 | November 25, 1905 | New Orleans | LSU | 5โ0 |
10 | December 9, 1911 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 6โ0 |
11 | November 28, 1912 | New Orleans | LSU | 21โ3 |
12 | November 22, 1913 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 40โ0 |
13 | November 26, 1914 | New Orleans | Tie | 0โ0 |
14 | November 25, 1915 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 12โ0 |
15 | November 30, 1916 | New Orleans | Tie | 14โ14 |
16 | November 29, 1917 | Baton Rouge | Tulane | 28โ6 |
17 | November 22, 1919 | New Orleans | LSU | 27โ6 |
18 | November 25, 1920 | Baton Rouge | Tulane | 21โ0 |
19 | November 19, 1921 | New Orleans | Tulane | 21โ0 |
20 | November 30, 1922 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 25โ14 |
21 | November 24, 1923 | New Orleans | Tulane | 20โ0 |
22 | November 27, 1924 | Baton Rouge | Tulane | 13โ0 |
23 | November 21, 1925 | Baton Rouge | Tulane | 16โ0 |
24 | November 25, 1926 | New Orleans | LSU | 7โ0 |
25 | November 24, 1927 | Baton Rouge | Tulane | 13โ6 |
26 | November 29, 1928 | New Orleans | Tie | 0โ0 |
27 | November 28, 1929 | Baton Rouge | Tulane | 21โ0 |
28 | November 27, 1930 | New Orleans | Tulane | 12โ7 |
29 | November 28, 1931 | New Orleans | Tulane | 34โ7 |
30 | November 26, 1932 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 14โ0 |
31 | December 2, 1933 | New Orleans | Tie | 7โ7 |
32 | December 1, 1934 | Baton Rouge | Tulane | 13โ12 |
33 | November 30, 1935 | New Orleans | LSU | 41โ0 |
34 | November 28, 1936 | Baton Rouge | #2 LSU | 33โ0 |
35 | November 27, 1937 | New Orleans | #10 LSU | 20โ7 |
36 | November 26, 1938 | Baton Rouge | Tulane | 14โ0 |
37 | December 2, 1939 | New Orleans | #5 Tulane | 33โ20 |
38 | November 30, 1940 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 14โ0 |
39 | November 29, 1941 | New Orleans | LSU | 19โ0 |
40 | November 26, 1942 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 18โ6 |
41 | November 20, 1943 | New Orleans | Tulane | 27โ0 |
42 | November 30, 1944 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 25โ6 |
43 | December 1, 1945 | New Orleans | LSU | 33โ0 |
44 | November 30, 1946 | Baton Rouge | #9 LSU | 41โ27 |
45 | December 6, 1947 | New Orleans | Tie | 6โ6 |
46 | November 27, 1948 | Baton Rouge | #14 Tulane | 46โ0 |
47 | November 26, 1949 | New Orleans | #13 LSU | 21โ0 |
48 | December 2, 1950 | New Orleans | Tie | 14โ14 |
49 | December 1, 1951 | New Orleans | LSU | 14โ13 |
50 | November 29, 1952 | New Orleans | LSU | 16โ0 |
51 | November 28, 1953 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 32โ13 |
52 | November 27, 1954 | New Orleans | LSU | 14โ13 |
53 | November 26, 1955 | Baton Rouge | Tie | 13โ13 |
54 | December 1, 1956 | New Orleans | LSU | 7โ6 |
55 | November 30, 1957 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 25โ6 |
56 | November 22, 1958 | New Orleans | #1 LSU | 62โ0 |
57 | November 21, 1959 | Baton Rouge | #3 LSU | 14โ6 |
58 | November 26, 1960 | New Orleans | LSU | 17โ6 |
59 | November 25, 1961 | Baton Rouge | #4 LSU | 62โ0 |
60 | November 24, 1962 | New Orleans | #8 LSU | 38โ3 |
61 | November 23, 1963 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 20โ0 |
62 | November 21, 1964 | New Orleans | #8 LSU | 13โ3 |
63 | November 20, 1965 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 62โ0 |
64 | November 19, 1966 | New Orleans | LSU | 21โ7 |
65 | November 25, 1967 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 41โ27 |
66 | November 23, 1968 | New Orleans | LSU | 34โ10 |
67 | November 22, 1969 | Baton Rouge | #10 LSU | 27โ0 |
68 | November 28, 1970 | New Orleans | #6 LSU | 26โ14 |
69 | November 27, 1971 | Baton Rouge | #10 LSU | 36โ7 |
70 | December 2, 1972 | New Orleans | #11 LSU | 9โ3 |
71 | December 1, 1973 | New Orleans | Tulane | 14โ0 |
72 | November 23, 1974 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 24โ22 |
73 | November 22, 1975 | New Orleans | LSU | 42โ6 |
74 | November 20, 1976 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 17โ7 |
75 | November 19, 1977 | New Orleans | LSU | 20โ17 |
76 | November 25, 1978 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 40โ21 |
77 | November 24, 1979 | New Orleans | #18 Tulane | 24โ13 |
78 | November 22, 1980 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 24โ7 |
79 | November 28, 1981 | New Orleans | Tulane | 48โ7 |
80 | November 27, 1982 | Baton Rouge | Tulane | 31โ28 |
81 | November 19, 1983 | New Orleans | LSU | 20โ7 |
82 | November 24, 1984 | Baton Rouge | #16 LSU | 33โ15 |
83 | November 30, 1985 | New Orleans | #13 LSU | 31โ19 |
84 | November 29, 1986 | Baton Rouge | #5 LSU | 37โ17 |
85 | November 21, 1987 | New Orleans | #9 LSU | 41โ36 |
86 | November 26, 1988 | Baton Rouge | #16 LSU | 44โ14 |
87 | November 25, 1989 | New Orleans | LSU | 27โ7 |
88 | November 24, 1990 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 16โ13 |
89 | November 23, 1991 | New Orleans | LSU | 39โ20 |
90 | November 21, 1992 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 24โ12 |
91 | November 20, 1993 | Baton Rouge | LSU | 24โ10 |
92 | November 19, 1994 | New Orleans | LSU | 49โ25 |
93 | November 23, 1996 | Baton Rouge | #18 LSU | 35โ17 |
94 | September 1, 2001 | Baton Rouge | #14 LSU | 48โ17 |
95 | September 23, 2006 | Baton Rouge | #10 LSU | 49โ7 |
96 | September 29, 2007 | New Orleans | #2 LSU | 34โ9 |
97 | November 1, 2008 | Baton Rouge | #15 LSU | 35โ10 |
98 | October 31, 2009 | Baton Rouge | #9 LSU | 42โ0 |
Series: LSU leads 69โ22โ7[1]
โ LSU was declared the winner by forfeit in the 1896 and 1901 games. The score for each game prior to a forfeit declaration was: 1896-Tulane 2, LSU 0, and 1901-Tulane 22, LSU 0. Official scores subsequent to the forfeitures are listed in the table. |
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