Week #9

Saint Paul Central vs Highland Park

Minnesota

The St. Paul Central vs. Highland Park football rivalry, known as the “Musket Game,” is one of the oldest and most storied high school football matchups in St. Paul. This rivalry began in 1964 and has been a staple of the local sports scene ever since. These games are known for their intense competitions and close scores, with many of these matchups decided by a single touchdown or less!  

The rivalry is celebrated not just for the on-field action but also for the community spirit it fosters. Griffin Stadium, the venue for these games, often sees crowds of 3,000-5,000 fans, creating an electric atmosphere. The Minutemen and the Scots, representing St. Paul Central and Highland Park respectively, bring their best to this annual showdown, making it a highlight of the high school football season. 

Last year, the Minutemen triumphed over the Scots 34-24 in a closely contested battle. Known for its nail-biting finishes, this matchup is one of the oldest and most anticipated in St. Paul high school football, which makes every game the game to see! 

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Longview vs Tyler Legacy

Texas

In the heart of East Texas football lore, the Longview Lobos prepare to host the Tyler Legacy Raiders in a clash that spans over six decades. Set in the iconic Lobo Stadium, this matchup, steeped in history and tradition, marks another chapter in the 21st season of the Great American Rivalry Series. 

The Lobos, holding a commanding series lead of 48-14-2, aim to continue their gridiron dominance against the Raiders. Last year’s 28-7 victory was the closest contest in over a decade, adding extra intensity to this year’s showdown. With a packed house of 10,000 fans expected, the atmosphere promises to be electric as both teams look to etch their name in the annals of this storied rivalry. 

Adding to the excitement are the NFL-caliber alumni from both schools, including Longview’s Willie Andrews and Tyler Legacy’s Matt Flynn, highlighting the rich football pedigree that defines this matchup. As kickoff approaches on October 18, one thing is certain: East Texas football lives and breathes through this historic rivalry.  

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Thompson vs Hoover

Alabama

In a clash that defines Alabama football lore, the Thompson Warriors and Hoover Buccaneers renew their storied rivalry at Warrior Stadium on October 18. Part of the 21st season of the Great American Rivalry Series, this matchup promises gridiron intensity under Friday night lights. 

Hoover holds a historical edge in the series at 23-9, but Thompson’s recent resurgence adds a layer of unpredictability. Last year’s defensive battle ended with Thompson triumphing 21-11, underscoring their determination to challenge Hoover’s dominance. Since 2017, when Thompson broke Hoover’s 20-game streak, both teams have traded victories, fueling the rivalry’s intensity.

With NFL talent emerging from both schools, including seven players from Hoover and one player from Thompson, this game showcases future stars on the rise. Expect a packed house of 4,500 roaring fans, eager to witness another chapter in this timeless rivalry. 

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Rutland vs Hartford

Vermont

The Rutland Raiders take on the Hartford Hurricanes at Alumni Stadium on October 18th, 2024, in a rivalry that dates back to the 1950s. As part of the 21st season of the Great American Rivalry Series, this game promises intensity, with both teams fighting for bragging rights and potential playoff positioning. 

Last season, Hartford surged ahead with a 27-0 lead at halftime and held off Rutland’s defense in the second half, finishing with a 35-6 win—marking their second consecutive victory in the rivalry. With the schools separated by just over an hour, the stakes are always high, and the atmosphere electric. 

Can the Raiders bounce back this year, or will the Hurricanes extend their streak?

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Lakota West vs Lakota East

Ohio

In a clash that divides a community but unites a town, the Battle of Lakota resumes as the Lakota West Firebirds take on the Lakota East Thunderhawks in the 21st season of the Great American Rivalry Series. Set against the backdrop of Firebird Stadium on October 18, this rivalry, born in 1997 with the split of Lakota into East and West, holds deep significance. 

With Lakota West holding a commanding 18-9 series lead, last year’s 34-0 victory showcased their dominance. As 5,000 fervent fans pack the stands, anticipation is high for another electrifying showdown between these cross-town rivals. 

Beyond the numbers, this matchup embodies the spirit of community pride and school spirit. Whether you bleed blue and gold for the Firebirds or green and black for the Thunderhawks, one thing is certain: Friday nights in Lakota are unforgettable.  

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Bowling Green vs South Warren

Kentucky

In a showdown etched in recent history, the Bowling Green Purples host the South Warren Spartans in the 21st season of the Great American Rivalry Series at Purples Field in BGHS Stadium on October 18. Since their inaugural clash in 2017, this rivalry has been defined by thrilling matchups and narrow margins. 

With Bowling Green holding a slight 7-5 series edge, last year’s 36-29 victory showcased their explosive offense and tenacious defense. The Purples struck early with an 80-yard touchdown and crucial blocked field goal, setting the tone for a fiercely contested battle. 

As 7,500 passionate fans fill the stands, the anticipation is palpable for another chapter in this intense rivalry. With half of their meetings decided by a touchdown or less, expect nothing short of a gripping contest under the Friday night lights. 

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Westwood vs Round Rock

Texas

Get ready for the highly anticipated Battle of the Bell rivalry game on October 18th, as the Westwood Warriors clash with the Round Rock Dragons. This historic matchup, the oldest in the school district, dates back to 1981 and embodies the fierce competition between Texas A&M-inspired maroon of Round Rock and the University of Texas-inspired burnt orange of Westwood. 

Hosted at the Kelly Reeves Athletic Complex, this game is expected to draw 4,000 passionate fans eager to witness these spirited rivals compete for possession of the bell. Last year, Round Rock claimed victory with a 24-21 win sealed by a last-minute field goal, intensifying the rivalry even further.

With Round Rock holding a narrow lead in the all-time series at 24-21, every encounter adds to the drama of this longstanding rivalry. Fans are encouraged to mark their calendars as the 21st season of the Great American Rivalry series celebrates the essence of Friday night football with this historic showdown.

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Green Bay East vs Green Bay West

Wisconsin

In the great state of Wisconsin, the storied “East vs. West” rivalry reignites at City Stadium as the Green Bay East Red Devils host the Green Bay West Wildcats.  

Dating back to 1905, this historic clash, now joining again in the 21st season of the Great American Rivalry Series, is Wisconsin’s longest-running high school football feud. With East leading the all-time series 64-52-3, the 119th meeting promises high stakes and high drama.  

Last year, West’s thrilling 41-28 victory featured two explosive 77-yard touchdowns, demonstrating their dominance. Both teams aim to claim bragging rights in front of a passionate crowd of 2,500. Will East extend their lead, or will West build on their recent triumph? Kickoff is set for October 18th.  

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Blue Springs South vs Blue Springs

Missouri

Get ready for the “Cat Clash” at Larry Stewart Memorial Stadium on October 18th, as the Blue Springs South Jaguars host the Blue Springs Wildcats. 

This game, part of the 21st season of the Great American Rivalry Series, continues a fierce rivalry that began in 1994. The Wildcats lead the all-time series 21-12, but the Jaguars have won every matchup since 2021, including last year’s thrilling 28-24 victory. Expect a packed crowd of 3,500 looking for reasons to cheer on their side. Last season saw several explosive plays which included a 50-yard touchdown pass and numerous long runs.  

Notably, Blue Springs has produced great talents like defensive duo Ikenna Ezeogu and Carson Willich, both committed to Iowa State in 2021.  

Don’t miss the intensity, the passion, and the excitement of Friday night football.  

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West Lyon vs Central Lyon

Iowa

Welcome to Jay Rozeboom Sports Complex for the 65th installment of the “Beef Bowl.” This historic rivalry, found in the heart of Iowa, features the 5-time State Champion West Lyon Wildcats and the 2-time State Champion Central Lyon Lions. The battle for Lyon County began in 1964 and is now one of the most anticipated matchups in the 21st season of the Great American Rivalry Series. 

Heading into this beef battle, the West Lyon Wildcats maintain a narrow 34-30 series lead, but the Central Lyon Lions have done their best to even the series by winning their last three contests, including a tight 7-0 victory last season. The Lions have been sizzling recently with a 25-1 record in their last two seasons, including a Division 2A State Championship victory in 2022. 

Mark your calendars for October 18th, as 5,000 fans anxiously watch to see which team will prevail in the “Beef Bowl.” 

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Waterloo vs Mascoutah

Illinois

The Waterloo Bulldogs are set to host the Mascoutah Indians at WHS Stadium on October 18,  in a highly anticipated showdown for the 21st season of the Great American Rivalry Series. This storied rivalry, which began in 1997, has seen the teams go head-to-head 20 times since 2004, with the series currently deadlocked at 10-10. The intense competition and deep-rooted tradition make this game a must-watch for fans of both communities. 

Last year’s clash was a spectacle, with Waterloo dominating from the outset. On a cold and windy evening, Koby Osterhage led the Bulldogs with three touchdowns, helping secure a commanding 42-13 victory over the Indians. Osterhage’s early 20-yard run set the tone, and the Bulldogs never looked back, showcasing their offensive prowess and defensive tenacity. 

As the teams prepare to meet again, the stakes couldn’t be higher. With a crowd of 2,000 or more expected to fill WHS Stadium, the atmosphere will be electric. Both teams are eager to break the tie in their all-time series and claim bragging rights. Waterloo, the last school to join the Mississippi Valley Conference in 1997, has built a reputation for tough, spirited play, and Mascoutah is equally determined to prove themselves on the field. 

This game is more than just a matchup; it’s a celebration of the rich history and tradition of football in these communities. The rivalry holds a special place in the hearts of the players and fans, symbolizing the passion and pride that comes with high school football. 

Who will emerge victorious in this fierce battle? Only time will tell as the Bulldogs and Indians clash under the Friday night lights. 

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Banning vs San Pedro

California

In the heart of Los Angeles Harbor, the stage is set for the 86th meeting between the Banning Pilots and the San Pedro Pirates, known locally as “The Battle of the Harbor.” This clash, a cornerstone of the 21st season of the Great American Rivalry Series, promises fireworks at the LA Memorial Coliseum on October 18. 

With a razor-thin series lead of 43-41-3, the Pilots look to edge closer to Rio Rancho’s 43 wins on their home field. Last year’s matchup saw San Pedro surge to a 21-0 lead before halftime, showcasing their offensive prowess early on. 

Beyond the gridiron, this rivalry epitomizes the unity and spirit of a community split by the harbor, but united in their love for Friday night lights. As emotions run high and the stands swell with 10,000 passionate fans, one thing is certain: “The Battle of the Harbor” is more than just a game—it’s a testament to resilience and community pride.  

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