| Wide: | yes |
| VMI–W&L rivalry | |
| Team1: | VMI |
| Team2: | Washington & Lee |
| Sport: | Football, basketball, baseball, lacrosse |
| Firstmeeting: | 1873 (football) |
The VMI–Washington and Lee rivalry is a rivalry in both football, basketball, baseball, and lacrosse.[1] between the VMI Keydets and Washington and Lee Generals.[2] Both teams played each other in the South's first football game in 1874. "Washington and Lee has the country club playboys who wrap sweaters around their shoulders and drive around in expensive cars any time they want. VMI cadets are in uniform and their lifestyles are completely controlled."[2] [3] Stonewall Jackson went to VMI and Robert E. Lee is a namesake of Washington & Lee. According to the 1895 VMI yearbook, "W and L U beating us at football would lead to the inevitable consequence, death due to mortification, or heart disease."[4]