Florida’s biggest rivalries: The matchups that define the sunshine state

There is no doubt that most people think about the sun-kissed beaches and theme parks when one mentions Florida. However, for sports fans, Florida is a battleground for some of the fiercest rivalries in American sports. This is the case for both college football, the NFL, and even for college basketball, where rivalry matchup represents the history, pride, and intense competition in the sports. 

The nature of the rivalries

A key to these rivalries is the passion which fans bring to the showdowns. The way in which fans are showing their support has been reshaped after the growth of digital platforms. It has made is possible for more and more fans to stay involved in the action both before, during, and after the games, which includes placing wagers on online sports betting sites. The site SportsCasting offers a great overview of the large variety of online sports betting sites in Florida, making it easier for fans to navigate their opportunities for showing support to their favorite Florida sports team. 

Florida Gators versus Georgia Bulldogs

An anticipated rivalry in Florida is the annual Florida-Georgis football game. This rivalry game is also nicknamed “the world’s largest outdoor cocktail party” as this event is more than a game – it is a cultural event. It takes time in the fall, where fans from both sides flock to the TIAA Bank Field of Jacksonville, where the stadium is split in half with the red and black from Georgia on one side and the orange and blue of Florida on the other side. The rivalry goes back to the 1910s and has a significant weight since the game is oftentimes crucial for the teams’ standing in the SEC.

The Bulldogs have been dominating the series in recent years, especially from being under head coach Kirby Smart. For the Florida Gators, the contest in early November 2024 will be an opportunity to shift the momentum in their favor. It will be crucial for the Gators to win and close the gap. However, regardless of previous outcomes, the atmosphere will be electric, both due to fans engaging in tailgating and through online sports betting platforms. 

Florida State Seminoles versus Miami Hurricanes

When it comes to college football, no rivalry is as heated as the one between Florida State and Miami. This rivalry is also dubbed “The sunshine showdown”, which has been taking place since the early 1950s, resulting in unforgettable moments and legendary plays. At the core of this rivalry is high stakes, as both teams often are ranked nationally, meaning that the game is crucial in relation to conference titles and bowl game placements. 

2024 is no stranger to this rivalry, as both teams are on an upward trajectory. Florida State has won the past few meetings, and there is no doubt that the Seminoles are trying to maintain that momentum. But this does not change the fact that Miami is a formidable opponent, which means the matchup is a must-watch event. 

Florida Gators versus Miami Hurricanes

It is not a given that the Florida Gators and Miami Hurricanes play each other annually. However, this does not change that the rivalry remains a significant one in the history of sports in Florida. There has been regular matchups over the past decades, but the rivalry has now become less frequent. In 2024, the rivalry took place late August, and another is set to take place in 2025. 

Miami is holding an edge in the series due to their many winning standings. However, as Florida’s non-conference schedule grows tougher, the game against Miami provides a new layer of excitement. 

Miami Dolphins versus Jacksonville Jaguars

The NFL teams in Florida also bring their own rivalry heat. The Miami Dolphins represents South Florida, whereas Jacksonville Jaguars represents North Florida, which means when these two teams clashes, it becomes a fight for supremacy. The games between these two NFL teams are packed with energy. 

Add sports betting to this cocktail, and you have yourself a solid mix. With sports betting being legalized in Florida, fans have an easier way to place wagers, which can be placed on everything from the final score to player stats. 

Tampa Bay Buccaneers versus Miami Dolphins

Another exciting NFL rivalry is the rivalry between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Miami Dolphins. The two teams are in different conferences, which means they do not face each other regularly, but whenever a matchup happens, it especially carries the weight of regional bragging rights. Under Tom Brady, Tampa Bay won the Super Bowl in 2021, which added more fuel to the fiery rivalry. 

The teams already faced off in 2024 in August, but fans are guaranteed more face offs again. Fans can be looking forward to many high-level moments, which can be perfect to place bets on via online betting platforms. 

The rivalries in Florida are not just about the action on the field, but just as much about the competitive spirit of the passionate fans behind the sports teams. As the state offers great variety in rivalries, from college football to NFL battles, the sports culture in Florida is strong, with a fan-based foundation at the core. As sports betting platforms continue to grow more popular, fans can engage with these rivalries in new ways.