What do an axe, a bucket and a cannon have in common? Meet the rivalry trophies of college football

The 135th meeting between the Minnesota Golden Gophers and the Wisconsin Badgers will take place on Saturday, marking the continuation of the most-played series in major college football history. The rivalry, currently tied at 63-63 with eight ties, features the iconic Paul Bunyan’s Axe, a trophy awarded annually since 1948. The winning team traditionally celebrates by pretending to chop down a goal post with the axe. This rivalry is part of a broader tradition in college football where teams compete for unique trophies, each with its own history and significance.

Other notable rivalry trophies include the Little Brown Jug between Michigan and Minnesota, Floyd of Rosedale between Minnesota and Iowa, and the Old Oaken Bucket contested by Indiana and Purdue. These trophies often have historical origins, like the Old Brass Spittoon between Indiana and Michigan State and the Illibuck Trophy between Illinois and Ohio State. The Territorial Cup, awarded to the winner of the Arizona-Arizona State game, is recognized as the