Starting in 1920, the “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.

Last 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’s 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

MVP

Jay Macias
Box Elder

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Tydon Jones

Bear River

Ty has been a tremendous example of hard work and determination. While balancing being a three-sport athlete, and upholding a 4.0 gpa, he has been a standout on the football field. After high school, he aspires to first go on an LDS mission and then play division 1 football. Ty is a great football player, but an even better teammate and friend to those around him.
Tyeson Hansen

Box Elder

Tyeson is an outstanding student athlete that works hard on and off the field. He has maintained an impressive 4.0 GPA, while participating in multiple extracurricular activities. Along with football, Tyeson is a member of student government and works hard to serve his community. After high school, he hopes to continue his academic and athletic career.

GAME SUMMARY

The "Battle for the Golden Spike" started off with a bang. The defences came out ready to play with hard hits and huge tackles. The Bears of Bear River kicked an early field goal, giving them the first points of the season. . Box Elder regained the lead with a quick score on the ground. After trading turnovers, the score at the half remained 7-3 with the Bees in the lead. Bear River used more stout defense to regain the lead with a short touchdown in the third, making it 10-7. After that score, the Bees dominated, scoring 14 unanswered points and forcing 3 turnovers. Jay Macias led the way for the Bees on both sides of the ball, bringing home the MVP.