Mississippi State’s annual rivalry game against Ole Miss is one of college football’s most intense.

While it may not have the yearly national appeal of some other matchups, the Egg Bowl is something both fan bases have circled for 365 days a year. Ole Miss has won the past two contests, but that is something Dan Mullen hopes to change in 2016.

“Rivalry games are the most important games of the year. Guys are ready to win our trophy back,” Mullen said on Wednesday’s SEC coaches teleconference. “It means so much inside the state. It is the most important thing to the fan base inside this state. It’s hard to explain the rivalry, it means so much for so many people.”

Mississippi State has had a down year, compared to the program’s recent success, and will face an Ole Miss squad that needs a win to become bowl eligible. If there is one thing that will keep Bulldogs’ fans happy after this year, it would be keeping the Rebels from playing during bowl season.