According to Marshall fans this is our Super Bowl but for them its just a trap game (that they obsess about constantly) so I don't know if it can be considered a true rivalry. In fact, discussing how Ohio is so much more into the series than Marshall is one of their fans' favorite topics, they talk about it ALL the time.
Its hard for them to get up for a game when their players are so vastly superior (obvi) to Ohio's and the only reason Ohio ever beats them is because Marshall loses the game by giving Ohio turnovers, not because Ohio forced those turnovers and managed to score points.
So, sadly, I do not think Marshall qualifies as a rival.
As a Marshall fan, I can tell you this is not true. We do not feel we are "above" Ohio, nor do we feel our players are above yours. Nothing but respect for the Bobcats. It's hard not to feel that way since you've beat our ass so much lately.
This is a weird rivalry because I don't hate Ohio and usually in a rivalry there is hate. I want to beat y'all and I know that's not easy to do but before and after the game I root for y'all to win. I would never do that for any other so called "rival".
I know our team gets fired up to play Ohio. There is no "this is a trap game" mentality. I love the game and it should be played every year, no exceptions.
I think this game is always a measuring stick for The Herd. If we can beat Ohio then we have a good chance at a good year. With that being said, I hope we beat y'all by 50. Go Herd!