Week #6

Batavia @ Geneva

Illinois

On September 29, Burgess Field will bear witness to the clash of titans as the Batavia Bulldogs and the Geneva Vikings renew their longstanding rivalry in the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series. This battle between neighboring towns has become a storied tradition in Illinois, capturing the hearts of fans and players alike.

With a rich history dating back over a century, the Batavia vs. Geneva matchup has seen the Vikings hold a slight edge in the all-time series, leading 51-48-6. However, the Bulldogs made a statement in their last meeting, dominating the game from the opening kickoff and emerging victorious with a convincing 33-7 win. Geneva will undoubtedly be fueled by the memory of that defeat, eager to reclaim their dominance on the field.

Rick Ford, founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, emphasized the significance of this rivalry, stating, “The Batavia vs. Geneva game is one of Illinois’ most historic and fiercely contested rivalries. As we celebrate the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series, this game exemplifies the passion, tradition, and unforgettable moments that make high school football rivalries so special.”

One of the highlights of this matchup is the sheer intensity it brings year after year. With over 105 meetings, this rivalry has stood the test of time, drawing a passionate crowd of 6,000 fans to Burgess Field every season. The atmosphere is sure to be electric, with the roar of the crowd serving as an extra boost of adrenaline for both teams.

As the Bulldogs and the Vikings take the field, the anticipation reaches its peak. Who will prevail in this historic clash? Will Geneva maintain their edge in the series, or will Batavia continue their recent dominance? On this Friday night, the answers will unfold, and the legacy of this remarkable rivalry will be etched in the minds of all who bear witness.

We Know Friday Nights.

Central Islip @ Patchogue-Medford

New York

The stage is set for an electrifying showdown as Patchogue-Medford High School gears up to host Central Islip High School in a highly anticipated football clash. This intense rivalry, dating back decades, has reached its pinnacle, and the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series adds an extra layer of excitement to the mix.

Scheduled for September 29, 2023, the Patchogue-Medford Raiders are seeking to maintain their dominance after a convincing 35-14 victory over the Central Islip Musketeers in their previous encounter. The home team’s momentum will be a force to be reckoned with as they take to the field, backed by the roaring support of their 3,000-strong crowd.

Rick Ford, the esteemed founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, shared his anticipation for this monumental clash, stating, “The Patchogue-Medford vs. Central Islip matchup is a true testament to the passion and spirit that high school football embodies. It’s an honor to witness the 20th season of our series culminate with such a historic rivalry.”

As Friday night draws near, both teams prepare to leave it all on the field. Emotions will run high as the Musketeers aim to avenge their previous loss and reclaim their honor. Meanwhile, the Raiders are determined to extend their winning streak and solidify their status as the dominant force in this rivalry.

Get ready for a night of fierce competition, electrifying plays, and unforgettable moments as these two powerhouse teams collide in the Patchogue-Medford High School stadium. The echoes of past battles and the excitement of the present will reverberate throughout the crowd, for this is a clash where legends are born.

We Know Friday Nights.

Clifton @ Passaic

New Jersey

The gridiron battle that’s been brewing for decades is finally here as the Passaic Indians and the Clifton Mustangs prepare to face off in a high-stakes showdown on September 29th, marking the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series. With Boverini Stadium as the battleground, this rivalry promises to deliver a clash of titans that will leave fans on the edge of their seats.

Clifton has been the dominant force in recent history, with Passaic looking to turn the tide this year. Only twice since 2004 have the Indians emerged victorious, but in the world of high school football rivalries, records can be shattered in an instant. Expect fireworks, passion, and unwavering school spirit as these two teams leave it all on the field.

Rick Ford, the founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, couldn’t be more excited for this historic showdown. “This rivalry perfectly encapsulates the essence of high school football in America,” Ford remarked. “It’s about tradition, pride, and the indomitable spirit of youth. The atmosphere at Boverini Stadium will be electric, and I have no doubt that these young athletes will put on a show that will be talked about for years to come.”

With a crowd size of 2,000 fans expected to pack the stands, the intensity will be palpable from the first kickoff to the final whistle. Both teams are hungry for victory, and the bragging rights that come with it.

In a 2021 article by northjersey.com, this rivalry was ranked as the 17th best in the state of New Jersey, a testament to its historical significance and the passion it ignites within the community.

So, mark your calendars and prepare for a Friday night football spectacle like no other. The Passaic Indians and Clifton Mustangs are set to deliver gridiron drama that will resonate through the ages. As the sun sets and the lights illuminate Boverini Stadium, remember one thing: “We Know Friday Nights.”

West Valley @ Lathrop

Alaska

The chilly air in Fairbanks is set to ignite as the Great American Rivalry Series returns for its milestone 20th season, and there couldn’t be a better matchup to celebrate the occasion. Lathrop High School Football Field will be the battleground for the long-standing rivalry between the Lathrop Malemutes and the West Valley Wolf Pack on September 30th, 2023.

With a rivalry that dates back to the year 2000, Lathrop and West Valley have been locking horns on the gridiron, and this year marks their 60th face-off on a football field. The history between these two teams is filled with fierce competition and unforgettable moments.

The Lathrop Malemutes have undoubtedly dominated the all-time series, boasting an impressive 47 wins over their rivals, the West Valley Wolf Pack, who have managed 12 victories. Last year, Lathrop showcased their dominance with a resounding 35-0 triumph over West Valley, setting the stage for a thrilling rematch.

Rick Ford, Founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, shares his excitement for this year’s encounter, stating, “Lathrop vs. West Valley is a true testament to the spirit of high school football rivalries. The passion, history, and camaraderie between these two schools embody what the Great American Rivalry Series stands for.”

The Lathrop Malemutes have been an indomitable force in Alaska high school football, claiming 14 out of 23 state titles. Meanwhile, the West Valley Wolf Pack, though fierce competitors, have secured six state titles in their own right. This season, both teams are hungry for glory, and this rivalry game is an ideal opportunity for one of them to assert their dominance.

As the fans get ready to pack the stands with a crowd size of 1,200, the atmosphere promises to be electrifying. With the bragging rights and the 60th meeting between these two powerhouse teams on the line, the intensity will be at an all-time high.

Mark your calendars for September 30th, 2023, as the Lathrop Malemutes and West Valley Wolf Pack square off in a clash that will undoubtedly go down in the annals of Great American Rivalry Series history.

We Know Friday Nights.