Week #2

Oxford vs Lafayette

Mississippi

The Oxford Chargers and Lafayette Commodores are set to renew their historic rivalry on August 30th, in what promises to be another thrilling chapter of the “Crosstown Classic”. This matchup holds special significance as it marks their 54th meeting since their inaugural game back in 1972.

Bobby Holcomb Field is expected to be packed with 7,000 enthusiastic fans eagerly anticipating the clash between these two-powerhouse high school football teams. Lafayette currently holds a slight edge in the all-time series with a record of 26 wins, 25 losses, and 2 ties. However, Oxford is determined to even the score, especially after last year’s decisive victory of 42-7.

Both Oxford and Lafayette boast storied football programs that are highly respected throughout the state of Mississippi. Each school has celebrated multiple state championships and has a rich tradition of producing outstanding athletes. Notable alumni include DK Metcalf, who attended Oxford High School, further adding to the prestige of this rivalry.

The Great American Rivalry Series, now in its 21st season, is privileged to showcase and celebrate such intense rivalries across the country. The Oxford vs. Lafayette matchup epitomizes the passion and competitive spirit that defines high school football in Mississippi, making it a highly anticipated event for fans, players, and communities alike.

We know Friday Nights

Harlan Community vs Lewis Central

Iowa

In the 21st season of the Great American Rivalry Series, the Lewis Central Titans face off against the Harlan Community Cyclones at Merrill Field on August 30. This fierce rivalry, which began in 2002, has seen 22 thrilling matchups with the Cyclones leading the all-time series 15-7. 

With 5,000 fans expected to pack Merrill stadium, anticipation is high following last year’s nail-biter, where the Cyclones held out the Titans 21-20.  

The teams have split their last 10 meetings, with Harlan holding a slight 6-4 advantage. This game marks the second time these two powerhouses have been featured in the series. Get ready for an unforgettable showdown that showcases intensity, tradition, and  

We Know Friday Nights. 

Ankeny vs Centennial

Iowa

The Ankeny Hawks and Ankeny Centennial Jaguars renew their fierce rivalry at Ankeny City Stadium on August 30, 2024, as part of the 21st season of the Great American Rivalry Series. Since the Ankeny Community School District split in 2013, the rivalry has intensified, with Centennial leading the series 9-4. However, Ankeny edged out a thrilling 39-38 victory in their last encounter. 

With a crowd of 9,000 expected, the night promises high energy, especially since it is Ankeny Junior Football Night, recognizing over 1,000 young athletes. The debut of a new locker room facility and a community-wide food drive add to the excitement, making this more than just a game—it’s a celebration of community spirit. 

 We Know Friday Nights. 

Bryant vs Benton

Arkansas

On August 30th, over 30,000 of Saline County, Arkansas’ finest, will fill Simmons Bank Field at War Memorial Stadium, as the Benton Panthers take on the Bryant Hornets. Playing annually since 1974, the 50th meeting of the “Salt Bowl” is highly anticipated, as it will be featured in the 2024 Great American Rivalry Series.  

Holding the crown of being the largest high school football game in Arkansas, the competition on the field always leaves the crowd satisfied. The Hornets have owned the rivalry as of late, winning 17 of the last 18, and coming all the way back to take the series lead, 25-24.  

This season, Benton hopes to avenge a 35-6 loss, in which they gave up 21 unanswered points and saw Bryant wide receiver Mytorian Singleton catch 5 passes in the second half, of which 2 went for touchdowns. 

 The anticipation for this marquee matchup is building, as the only certainty heading into this game, is that this rivalry embodies what high school football is all about.  

We Know Friday Nights

Box Elder vs Bear River

Utah

Starting in 1920, “Battle for the Golden Spike” is the oldest rivalry in Utah, as each season sees the Bear River Bears and the Box Elder Bees meet on the gridiron. The 2024 edition is set to be big, as it once again a part of the Great American Rivalry Series.

From the inception of the series, the Bees have had the Bears number, as they lead the overall series 71-26-2. However, Bear River is hungry for a win, as they aim to take down Box Elder for the first time since 2020, and inch closer to evening up the series.

Least season’s matchup was a high scoring affair, as Box Elder brought home the Golden Spike with a 49-28 victory. The Bears defense will hope for a better showing this year, after giving up 140 yards and 3 touchdowns to Box Elder’s Dax Sumko, who helped carry the team’ fierce rushing attack.

The newest iteration of this historic rivalry is set to be its best yet, with the intense matchup embodying what high school football is all about.

We Know Friday Nights