Week #3
August 31 – September 1
L.C. Bird @ Thomas Dale
Virginia
It’s that time of year again, where the intensity of football rivalries takes center stage. On August 31, 2023, the Thomas Dale Football Stadium will be set ablaze as the home team, Thomas Dale, squares off against their fierce rivals, L.C. Bird, in what is famously known as the “Battle of Chester.”
With a staggering 52 meetings in the all-time series, it’s clear that this rivalry is one for the ages. L.C. Bird has a slight edge, having dominated the series, but Thomas Dale is eager to turn the tide and claim their rightful spot at the top.
The crowd size is expected to hit a roaring 4,000 fans, as both teams’ loyal supporters come together to witness the spectacle that this rivalry always delivers. The passion and energy in the stands will undoubtedly match that on the field.
In their last encounter, the Thomas Dale varsity football team emerged victorious, sealing the game with a decisive 32-21 scoreline. But the loss only fueled the fire burning within L.C. Bird, making this upcoming clash even more electrifying.
Rick Ford, the founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, shared his thoughts on this historic matchup, stating, “The Thomas Dale vs. L.C. Bird rivalry has been an integral part of our Series since its inception in 1980. The passion and tradition behind this battle exemplify the essence of high school football rivalries, and we expect nothing less than an unforgettable clash on the field.”
The players are ready to give it their all, and the coaches are strategizing tirelessly to outsmart their opponents. As the tension builds, the excitement is palpable, and both teams are fully aware of the significance this game holds.
The Great American Rivalry Series has witnessed its fair share of legendary moments, and this 20th season opener promises to add another unforgettable chapter to its storied history.
So, get ready to witness high school football at its finest, as Thomas Dale and LC Bird face off in a battle that transcends the sport itself.
We Know Friday Nights.
Abilene @ Abilene Cooper
Texas
The city of Abilene is bracing itself for an epic showdown as the Abilene Eagles take on the Abilene Cooper Cougars in the 63rd meeting of their storied football rivalry. Set to kick off at Shotwell Stadium on September 1, 2023, this game holds a special place as it marks the 20th season of the prestigious Great American Rivalry Series.
The Abilene Cooper Cougars have had the upper hand in this historic rivalry, boasting a 36-25-1 advantage in the all-time series. However, the Abilene Eagles are riding high from their previous meeting, where they snatched a hard-fought 14-10 victory and brought home the cherished Rivalry Trophy.
As the teams prepare to take the field, the anticipation is building, with 15,000 fervent fans expected to pack the stands at Shotwell Stadium. The atmosphere will be electric as the passionate supporters of both teams converge to witness this clash of titans.
Reflecting on the significance of this matchup, Rick Ford, founder, and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, remarked, “The Abilene vs. Abilene Cooper rivalry embodies the essence of high school football. For over six decades, these two programs have battled fiercely, creating unforgettable moments that define the spirit of this great sport. As we celebrate the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series, this game holds a special place in our hearts, symbolizing the intensity and passion of these communities.”
The Abilene Eagles and the Abilene Cooper Cougars have poured their hearts and souls into their preparations for this momentous clash. Every practice, every drill has been geared towards asserting dominance on the field and securing victory for their respective schools.
The 63rd meeting between these two rivals promises to be an epic chapter in their storied history. The players will leave it all on the field, fueled by the memories of past encounters and the desire to etch their names in the annals of this legendary rivalry.
When the clock starts ticking, Shotwell Stadium will become a battlefield, where tradition, pride, and relentless determination collide. The Battle for Abilene is set to captivate the senses and create indelible memories for players and fans alike. Fans be ready for another exciting year because We Know Friday Nights!
Mission Viejo @ Long Beach Poly
California
Get ready for an electrifying Friday night under the lights as the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series kicks off with an intense matchup between Mission Viejo and Long Beach Poly on September 1, 2023 at the renowned David Burcham Field.
With just eight meetings in the all-time series, Mission Viejo holds the edge with a 6-2 record against the storied Long Beach Poly. But the Jackrabbits are determined to rewrite the narrative and add another thrilling chapter to their rich football legacy.
The crowd size is expected to reach a roaring 7,000, as both teams’ passionate supporters converge to witness this highly anticipated rivalry clash. The stands will be alive with school spirit, adding an electric atmosphere to the game.
Last time around, Long Beach Poly’s running back, Devin Samples, etched his name into the history books with an 8-yard touchdown run in the final 22 seconds, securing a dramatic 35-30 upset win over Mission Viejo at their own turf. The Diablos are itching for redemption and will leave no stone unturned in their quest for victory.
Rick Ford, the founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, highlighted the significance of this legendary rivalry, saying, “Mission Viejo vs. Long Beach Poly is a game that embodies the essence of high school football rivalries. The passion, the tradition, and the talent on display make it one of the most anticipated clashes in our 20-year history.”
Both schools boast impressive football pedigrees. Poly’s deep history dates back to 1908, amassing an astonishing 20 Southern Section titles and claiming the first state title in 1919. On the other hand, Mission Viejo, since its inception in 1966, has secured seven section titles and triumphed in the 2015 state Division 1-AA bowl game. Not to forget their remarkable 41-game winning streak from 2001-03, the second-longest in Orange County history.
As the teams prepare to take the field, the passion and intensity are palpable, and fans are eagerly awaiting another chapter in this historic rivalry. So, mark your calendars and buckle up for a high-octane encounter that will leave you on the edge of your seats.
We Know Friday Nights.
Kohala @ Honoka’a
Hawaii
The hallowed grounds of Honoka’a High School Football Stadium are ready to witness the clash of titans as the Dragons and Cowboys lock horns in a gridiron showdown that’s become legendary over the past two decades. Welcome to the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series, and mark your calendars for September 1st, 2023.
Since its inaugural kickoff in 2004, this rivalry has been etched into the annals of football history. The Honoka’a Dragons and Kohala Cowboys are gearing up for another thrilling chapter in a storied saga, with the Dragons currently holding a commanding 13-1 edge in the all-time series.
Last season’s showdown was a statement of dominance by the Dragons, who prevailed with a resounding 29-0 victory over the Cowboys. As the new season unfolds, the anticipation for their next clash is palpable.
Rick Ford, the visionary behind the Great American Rivalry Series, speaks to the significance of this matchup: “The Dragons and Cowboys rivalry represents the heart and soul of high school football. It’s not just about touchdowns and tackles; it’s about the unbreakable bond between communities and the passion that fuels this age-old competition.”
The Dragons are riding high as the reigning BIIF Division II champions, having secured their title in a championship showdown. Their triumphs have propelled them to the top of the Big Island II Football Standings. Meanwhile, the Cowboys, positioned at 5th in the rankings, are determined to prove their mettle in this storied rivalry.
As the sun sets and the stadium lights illuminate the field, the stage is set for an epic clash. Fans from both sides will pack the stands, eager to witness the spectacle that is the Dragons vs. Cowboys. In an atmosphere charged with history and rivalry, these teams are set to deliver a performance that will echo through the ages.
We Know Friday Nights.
Northside @ Warner Robins
Georgia
It’s a clash that dates back to 1964, a rivalry steeped in tradition and fierce competition. On Friday September 1, 2023, the Northside High School Eagles will square off against the Warner Robins High School Demons in a battle that will once again ignite the passions of their respective communities. The stage for this showdown is none other than McConnell-Talbert Stadium, the hallowed ground that has witnessed countless epic battles between these two powerhouse programs.
With a total of 65 meetings, this rivalry has seen its fair share of twists and turns. The Warner Robins Demons currently hold the upper hand, boasting 40 wins in the all-time series. However, the Northside Eagles are eager to narrow the gap and reclaim their place atop the Middle Georgia football hierarchy.
Last season’s encounter between these two giants was a nail-biter, with the Warner Robins Demons prevailing in a hard-fought 17-10 victory. This result only added fuel to the fire, intensifying the desire for revenge on the part of the Northside Eagles. The atmosphere at McConnell-Talbert Stadium promises to be electric, with an anticipated crowd size of 8,000 passionate fans who will be on the edge of their seats for every play.
Rick Ford, the founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, captures the essence of this historic showdown: “The Northside versus Warner Robins rivalry is a true gem in the high school football landscape. It epitomizes the spirit of competition and the pride that runs deep within these communities. We are thrilled to have this game as part of the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series.”
As kickoff approaches, the intensity builds, and the players prepare to leave it all on the field. This clash of the Warner Robins Demons and the Northside Eagles is more than just a football game; it’s a battle for bragging rights, a chance to etch their names in the annals of Middle Georgia sports history.
Get ready, because Friday nights belong to these two powerhouses. Get ready, because Northside and Warner Robins are about to showcase why their rivalry is one for the ages. Get ready, because this is the game that will be remembered. We Know Friday Nights.
Camden @ Hartsville
South Carolina
Hartsville Football Stadium is set to ignite with fervor and excitement as the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series kicks off with a historic clash between the home team, Hartsville High, and the visiting Camden High. This football rivalry, dating back to 1922, has captured the hearts of fans for over a century and is regarded as the longest and most intense rivalry game in the state of South Carolina. Both teams are amongst the winningest in the nation, with Hartsville at the forefront by only 14 wins over Camden.
With 94 meetings in their storied history, the Camden Bulldogs currently hold a slim lead over the Hartsville Red Foxes with a 50-40 record. The tension is palpable as both teams step onto the field, knowing that this game could be the turning point in their long-standing rivalry.
Last year’s encounter saw the Red Foxes emerge victorious with a thrilling 36-29 win, as J’Shawn Anderson’s game-clinching 33-yard run in the dying moments sent the home crowd into an ecstatic frenzy. The memories of that game still linger, adding extra fire to the already fierce competition.
Rick Ford, the Founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, shared his anticipation for the upcoming game, stating, “The Hartsville vs. Camden matchup has been a highlight of our series for two decades. The passion and intensity displayed by both teams and their fans truly embody the spirit of high school football rivalries.”
As the stadium gates open, a buzzing crowd of 3,000 passionate fans will fill the stands, cheering for their respective teams with unrivaled enthusiasm. The echoes of history and the thrill of the game will fuel the players on the field, as they leave every ounce of energy and passion in pursuit of glory.
This season, Hartsville and Camden will go head-to-head in a battle of wills, strength, and skill. The Red Foxes will be eager to defend their home turf and inch closer to narrowing the all-time series gap, while the Bulldogs aim to extend their lead and silence the home crowd.
The stage is set, the emotions are running high, and the countdown to kickoff has begun. Brace yourselves for a captivating clash that will once again etch its name into the annals of South Carolina football history.
We Know Friday Nights.
Lakota West @ Fairfield
Ohio
It’s that time of the year again when the Fairfield Indians clash with the Lakota West Firebirds in a battle that has captivated fans for years. This heated rivalry, part of the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series, is set to ignite Fairfield Stadium on September 1st, 2023.
Last year’s matchup was a nail-biter, with Lakota West edging out Fairfield in a thrilling 40-31 victory. The Indians are determined to avenge that loss and reclaim their dominance in this historic rivalry. The Firebirds, on the other hand, will be aiming to continue their success and maintain their momentum.
This year’s showdown promises to be an electrifying event, drawing in a massive crowd of passionate fans from both sides. The atmosphere in Fairfield Stadium will be nothing short of electric as these two football juggernauts collide.
“We are thrilled for these teams to be part of the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series and showcase the Fairfield vs. Lakota West rivalry,” said Rick Ford, founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series. “This matchup embodies the essence of high school football rivalries, the intensity and passion displayed by these athletes are what makes this series truly special.”
Lakota West enters the game with national recognition, currently ranked in the top 100 teams nationally. Their exceptional performances have placed them in the spotlight, adding an extra layer of anticipation to this highly anticipated showdown.
Get ready for an evening of fierce competition, breathtaking plays, and unforgettable moments as the Fairfield Indians take on the Lakota West Firebirds. This is a clash that will leave fans on the edge of their seats, reminding everyone why we love Friday nights.
We Know Friday Nights.
