Governor Blagojevich Punts a Friendly Wager to Missouri Governor Blunt

SPRINGFIELD - Governor Rod R. Blagojevich and Missouri Governor Matt Blunt are putting it all on the scrimmage line tomorrow during the 2008 State Farm Arch Rivalry football game between the University of Illinois Fighting Illini and the University of Missouri Tigers.  In the spirit of the game, Governor Blagojevich placed a friendly wager with Governor Blunt for tomorrow's longstanding football rivalry.

 

The game plan hashed out between the Governors will entail the losing Governor issuing a proclamation in their home state congratulating and honoring the winning team.  If the Mizzou Tigers lose, Governor Blunt will officially designate a day "University of Illinois Fighting Illini Day" and if the Fighting Illini lose, Governor Blagojevich is set to proclaim the same day "University of Missouri Fighting Tigers Day" on his home turf.  The losing Governor has also agreed to take one for the team and pose for a photograph with the proclamation as a sign of defeat.

 

"In honor of one of the most anticipated sporting events in the Midwest this year, Governor Blunt and I have made a pact on the pigskin," said Governor Blagojevich.  "Last year, the Fighting Illini had a season to remember going to the Rose Bowl for first time in 24 years, and this year they are ready to carry that energy into the end-zone to beat Mizzou," said Governor Blagojevich.

 

"With the Missouri Tigers poised to have another outstanding season and on the cover of Sports Illustrated, I have placed a friendly wager with my fellow governor, Rod Blagojevich," said Gov. Blunt.  "I am looking forward to attending the game and for his proclamation of Missouri Tigers Day in Illinois."

 

While both Governors spar over which team is better, they do agree on one thing: The Arch Rivalry game between the Fighting Illini and the Mizzou Tigers is not to be missed, since both teams are coming off outstanding 2007 seasons.  Last year, the Illini recorded an impressive nine wins and earned a trip to the Rose Bowl, which ended in Governor Blagojevich proclaiming December 3, 2007 as University of Illinois Fighting Illini in Illinois.  Mizzou went on to the Cotton Bowl after a 12-2 season.

"This is a rivalry that began in 1896 and we're carrying on the tradition because a friendly rivalry is good for the game," said Governor Blagojevich. 

 

The Fighting Illini and the Mizzou Tigers kick off the season Saturday, August 30 at 7:30 p.m. on ESPN.