War For The Wheel
Starting with the 2018 season, the longstanding football rivalry between Southern Illinois and Southeast Missouri was dubbed the "War for the Wheel."
The non-conference rivals are separated by just 45 miles.When the series first began in 1913, SEMO and SIU used to cross the Mississippi River by boat. A colorful anecdote from the early years — one year SIU's boat sank and players had to swim to shore. The game was played as scheduled.
"This matchup has evolved into a spirited rivalry over the years, including the first-ever college football game at Busch Stadium in 2013," said Salukis head coach Nick Hill. "Creating a 'trophy' to play for just adds to the excitement."
Each year, the winner of the game takes home an authentic ship's wheel to its side of the Mississippi River and proudly display it until the next scheduled matchup.
War For The Wheel History
(Series Tied, 2-2)
Sept. 15, 2018 in Carbondale: SEMOÂ won, 48-44
Sept. 29, 2019 in Cape Girardeau: SEMO won, 44-26
Oct. 30, 2020 in Carbondale: SIU won, 20-17
Sept. 2, 2021 in Cape Girardeau: SIU won, 47-21
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The non-conference rivals are separated by just 45 miles.When the series first began in 1913, SEMO and SIU used to cross the Mississippi River by boat. A colorful anecdote from the early years — one year SIU's boat sank and players had to swim to shore. The game was played as scheduled.
"This matchup has evolved into a spirited rivalry over the years, including the first-ever college football game at Busch Stadium in 2013," said Salukis head coach Nick Hill. "Creating a 'trophy' to play for just adds to the excitement."
Each year, the winner of the game takes home an authentic ship's wheel to its side of the Mississippi River and proudly display it until the next scheduled matchup.
War For The Wheel History
(Series Tied, 2-2)
Sept. 15, 2018 in Carbondale: SEMOÂ won, 48-44
Sept. 29, 2019 in Cape Girardeau: SEMO won, 44-26
Oct. 30, 2020 in Carbondale: SIU won, 20-17
Sept. 2, 2021 in Cape Girardeau: SIU won, 47-21
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