In the heart of Pennsylvania, a long-standing football feud is set to ignite once again as the Harrisburg Cougars clash with the Central Dauphin Rams. As part of the momentous 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series, the anticipation for this showdown is reaching a fever pitch. For over half a century, these two schools have locked horns on the gridiron, and this Friday night promises to be nothing short of spectacular. 

Last season, Harrisburg asserted their dominance, securing a resounding 42-7 victory over Central Dauphin. However, in rivalries like these, past glory often counts for little. The Rams will be itching for revenge, ready to give their all on the field and flip the script in front of their passionate home crowd. 

Rick Ford, Founder, and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series shared his thoughts on the significance of this game. “The Harrisburg vs. Central Dauphin rivalry is one of the most storied in high school football history,” Ford said. “With over five decades of gridiron battles, this matchup embodies the essence of true competition and community spirit. As we celebrate the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series, it’s an honor to witness such a captivating clash.” 

Landis Field is sure to be buzzing with excitement as fans eagerly pour in to witness the spectacle. The historic rivalry has drawn a crowd size of 4000, and both sets of supporters will be chanting, cheering, and supporting their respective teams with unwavering loyalty. 

The Cougars will draw strength from their previous triumph, seeking to maintain their recent dominance in the series. Meanwhile, the Rams are determined to show the world that they are a force to be reckoned with, looking to narrow the all-time series gap and gain bragging rights for this season. 

As the players take the field under the Friday night lights, emotions will run high, and every inch will be contested. It’s not just a game; it’s a symbol of pride, tradition, and passion that embodies the essence of high school football rivalries. 

So, buckle up and prepare for a thrilling contest that is set to etch another chapter in the annals of this iconic rivalry. Harrisburg vs. Central Dauphin – the stage is set, the teams are ready, and the fans are roaring.  

We Know Friday Nights. 

MVP

Shawn Lee
Harrisburg

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Kaiden Palmer

Central Dauphin

Kaiden has demonstrated great commitment to being a student-athlete. He worked very hard in our offseason program and achieved impressive gains along with being a member of our varsity wrestling squad. He was also selected twice to play for a Hero in our annual Gold Star Mom game thanks to his volunteer work which totaled more than 50 hours of community service. Additionally he has earned a 3.9 cumulative GPA as well. Congratulations, Kaiden Palmer.
Raytel Bryant

Harrisburg

Raytel is an all conference defensive back. He has all A's in his classes with a 4.3 GPA. He is duel enrolled at Harrisburg University and HACC. In 2021 he was inducted in the National Honor Society.

GAME SUMMARY

A cool night in the southern Pennsylvania countryside leaves fans with an epic game, with another show out from the Central Dauphin Rams with another nemesis the Harrisburg Cougars. The Rams came storming out the gate, with a touchdown. That is soon answered by a Harrisburg touchdown, a block point after touchdown keeps the score 7-6. Central Dauphin starts to fall behind after a 60 yard run for a third Cougar touchdown, making the crowd roar. With no time left on the clock, a successful two point conversion and an epic interception leads to Harrisburg victory, with a final score of 47-21.