Week #2

White Hall @ Sheridan

Arkansas

Lewis Central @ Harlan Community

Iowa

The stage is set for a clash of titans as the Lewis Central Titans square off against the Harlan Cyclones in the highly anticipated “Night of Champions” showdown. This classic rivalry, dating back to 1961, has been a staple of Friday night football for both communities. As part of the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series, this game promises to deliver another thrilling chapter in their storied history.

With the all-time series favoring Harlan at 15-6 since 2004, the Titans have their work cut out for them. However, recent history suggests a more evenly matched contest, as the teams have split the last 10 games with a 5-5 record. This statistic alone highlights the intense competitiveness that has come to define this rivalry.

Founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, Rick Ford, shares his thoughts on this historic matchup, stating, “The Lewis Central vs. Harlan rivalry embodies the essence of high school football. The passion, intensity, and community pride that surrounds this game are truly unmatched. This year marks a milestone in our series, and we expect an unforgettable battle between these two powerhouse programs.”

The crowd at Titan Stadium is expected to be roaring with excitement, with an estimated 4,000 fans eagerly anticipating this clash. The atmosphere will be electric, as both teams’ mascots, the Titans and Cyclones, lead their respective fanbases in generating an atmosphere that will rival any football spectacle.

Reflecting on last year’s encounter, which saw Lewis Central emerge victorious with a narrow 30-27 win, both teams have undoubtedly been preparing meticulously to gain an edge in this year’s matchup. The Titans’ ability to neutralize the Cyclones’ explosive plays and the resilience shown by Harlan in their near comeback will surely fuel their motivation on the field.

As the Lewis Central Titans and Harlan Cyclones prepare to take the field, one thing is certain: Friday nights belong to high school football, and this riveting rivalry epitomizes the spirit and tradition of the game. With decades of history and fierce competition that continues to evolve, fans can expect an unforgettable night of football as the two powerhouses clash under the lights.

Bluefield @ Graham

West Virginia

The historic rivalry between the Graham G-Men and the Bluefield Beavers is set to ignite once again at Mitchell Stadium on August 25th, marking the 94th meeting between these two powerhouse teams. As part of the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series, this clash promises to be nothing short of electrifying.

Dating back to 1911, the Battle of the Bluefields has captivated fans for over a century. The stadium, Mitchell Stadium, will be filled to its 8,000 capacity, ready to witness this storied rivalry unfold under the Friday night lights. This year’s game holds even more significance as Graham will defend their state champion title, making them the team to beat in the coming season.

Reflecting on the importance of this rivalry, Rick Ford, the founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, emphasized, “The Graham vs Bluefield matchup is one of those classic high school football rivalries that transcends generations. Both schools show an intensity and grit in this game that’s reminiscent of my days on the field. It’s a testament to the passion and pride these communities have for their teams, and it shows when everyone in town comes out to support their youth. We are thrilled to feature this game as part of our 20th season!“

Last year, Graham edged past Bluefield with a 29-25 victory, securing their second consecutive win in the rivalry. The game’s Most Valuable Player, Ty-Drez Clements, showcased his exceptional skills, leaving a lasting impact on the field. With their recent success, the G-Men will aim to extend their winning streak against the formidable Beavers.

Adding to the intensity, the City of Bluefield will hold a parade for both teams the day before the game, fueling the excitement that surrounds this classic showdown. The passionate fans, decked out in their team colors, will create an electric atmosphere as they cheer on their respective mascots, the Bluefield Beavers and the Graham G-Men.

As the countdown begins to the Battle of the Bluefields, one thing is certain: this clash will deliver an unforgettable spectacle that epitomizes the essence of high school football. Get ready for an epic showdown, because when it comes to the Graham vs Bluefield rivalry, We Know Friday Nights.

Thomas County Central @ Thomasville

Georgia

In the heart of Georgia, a classic high school football rivalry is set to ignite once again as the Thomasville Bulldogs clash with the Thomas County Central Yellow Jackets. The stage is set at the iconic Jackets’ Nest, where these two fierce competitors will battle it out in the 57th installment of their historic matchup. This highly anticipated contest is a part of the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series, showcasing the intensity and tradition that defines high school football.

With an all-time series record of 27-28-1, the Thomasville vs. Thomas County Central rivalry is one of the most evenly matched in America. Over the years, these two teams have provided fans with unforgettable moments and nail-biting finishes, making this showdown a must-watch event for football enthusiasts.

Rick Ford, the founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, shared his thoughts on this marquee matchup, stating, “The Thomasville vs. Thomas County Central rivalry is a true testament to the spirit of high school football. These two communities come together, leaving it all on the field, and this year’s game promises to be another chapter in their storied history.”

The last encounter between these two powerhouses saw Thomas County Central emerge victorious with a resounding 31-0 win. The Bulldogs are hungry for redemption and eager to make a statement on August 25th this year. The atmosphere is expected to be electric, with an estimated 8,000 fans converging to witness this clash of titans.

As kickoff approaches, anticipation hangs in the air, and both teams are prepared to leave everything on the gridiron. The Rose City Rumble holds a special place in the hearts of these communities, symbolizing their shared love for the game and the pride they take in representing their respective schools.

Will Thomasville reclaim bragging rights, or will Thomas County Central continue their dominance in this long-standing rivalry? There’s only one way to find out – join us under the Friday night lights and witness the intensity, passion, and pure football excitement that is the Thomasville vs. Thomas County Central showdown.

Lafayette @ Oxford

Louisiana

Football enthusiasts, get ready for an exhilarating kickoff to the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series as we present “The Crosstown Classic” between the Lafayette Commodores and the Oxford Chargers. The battle lines will be drawn on August 25th, 2023, at the iconic William L. Buford Stadium.

Since its inception in 1972, “The Crosstown Classic” has been a marquee event that embodies the heart and soul of high school football rivalries. As these two titans prepare for their 52nd meeting, the excitement is palpable, and the anticipation is at an all-time high.

With a razor-thin margin, the all-time series record stands at Lafayette leading 26-24-2 over Oxford, showcasing the competitive balance and intensity that define this storied matchup. In their most recent clash, the Oxford Chargers displayed their dominance with a convincing 43-19 victory over the Lafayette Commodores.

Rick Ford, Founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, shared his thoughts on “The Crosstown Classic,” stating, “Lafayette vs. Oxford is a testament to the passion and tradition of high school football. As we celebrate our 20th season, we’re honored to feature this rivalry that exemplifies the spirit of the Great American Rivalry Series.”

The rivalry between the Lafayette Commodores and the Oxford Chargers goes beyond the gridiron, weaving into the fabric of their communities and igniting the passion of fans young and old.

With a crowd size of 5,800 fans expected to pack William L. Buford Stadium, the atmosphere will be electric, creating the perfect stage for both teams to leave their mark on this storied rivalry.

As the Lafayette Commodores and the Oxford Chargers prepare to clash on August 25th, 2023, one thing is certain: “The Crosstown Classic” will be a battle for the ages, a game that encapsulates the essence of high school football and the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series.