Razorbacks’ Dominance Over Missouri: A Look at the Rivalry Since the Tigers Joined the SEC
With the start of conference play, we take an in-depth look at opponent number on in the Missouri Tigers. How have the Razorbacks played against them? Let’s find out!
The landscape of the Southeastern Conference (SEC) underwent a significant shift in 2013 when the Missouri Tigers made the transition into one of the most competitive conferences in collegiate baseball. Since then, the Tigers have fought to establish their presence, facing off against storied programs and enduring the highs and lows that come with SEC competition. Among the notable rivalries that have developed is the one with the Arkansas Razorbacks, a team that has proven to be a challenging opponent for Missouri in conference play.
Missouri’s journey in the SEC has been a rocky one, with a conference record of 108-191 and a series record of 36-63, reflecting the uphill battle they’ve faced against some of the nation’s top teams. Sweeps have been a rare highlight, with only seven to their name, while the experience of being swept has been all too familiar, happening 37 times since their SEC debut.
The Razorbacks have been a particular thorn in Missouri’s side. With a head-to-head record of 11-4 in favor of Arkansas, the Hogs have demonstrated their prowess, establishing a win rate of 73.33% against the Tigers. This dominance speaks to the strength and consistency of the Arkansas baseball program, which has become a perennial powerhouse in the conference.
Reflecting on the past meetings, the 2014 season was a statement year for Arkansas, as they swept Missouri 3-0, setting the tone for future encounters. In 2016, the Tigers managed to snatch a series win, going 1-2 against the Hogs, showcasing that they could indeed challenge their Arkansas counterparts. However, the Razorbacks reclaimed their dominance with series wins in 2017, 2019, and 2021, further solidifying their superiority in this matchup.
The intermittent nature of their meetings, with no games in 2013, 2015, 2018, 2020, and 2022, has only fueled the anticipation and rivalry when the two teams do face off. Each series becomes a proving ground, with Missouri seeking to upset the established hierarchy and Arkansas aiming to defend their record.
As both teams prepare to write the next chapter of this SEC rivalry, the Arkansas Razorbacks look to continue their dominance, while the Missouri Tigers aim to rewrite the script and claw their way up the conference standings. The passion and determination on display resonate with fans from both sides, ensuring that each game is played with the intensity and competitiveness that epitomizes SEC baseball.
For the fans in Arkansas, the rivalry with Missouri serves as a reminder of the Razorbacks’ resilience and ability to maintain their status among the elite, even as the competitive landscape of the conference continues to evolve. As the teams ready themselves for their next encounter, the Razorback faithful will be watching closely, eager to cheer on their team and add another victorious chapter to the storied Arkansas-Missouri baseball rivalry.
