The stage is set for an epic clash as the Male Bulldogs and the duPont Manual Crimsons gear up for the 140th meeting in their storied rivalry. Dating all the way back to 1893, this matchup holds a special place in the hearts of football fans across Kentucky. Memorial Stadium will be the battleground where these fierce competitors go head-to-head in what promises to be a thrilling contest. 

Known as “The Old Rivalry,” this game has a rich history that stretches over a century. With the series currently favoring Male at 45-89-6, the Crimsons will be hungry for redemption after falling short in their last encounter. In that game, Male emerged victorious with a hard-fought 14-6 win, leaving the Crimsons eager to even the score. 

The atmosphere is expected to be electric, with an estimated crowd size of 8,000 fans filling the stands. Emotions will run high as both teams fight tooth and nail for the coveted Barrel, a symbol of triumph that will be proudly displayed at the winner’s school. This prestigious prize adds an extra layer of intensity to an already heated rivalry. 

Rick Ford, the founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series and graduate of duPont Manual, shared his excitement about this historic matchup, stating, “The Male versus duPont Manual rivalry is a true testament to the passion and tradition that high school football represents. As we celebrate the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series, there couldn’t be a better way to honor the rich history and intense competition that defines this matchup.” 

With the stage set and anticipation building, the stage is set for a clash of titans. Both teams will leave no stone unturned as they prepare to etch their names into the annals of this esteemed rivalry. So mark your calendars for October 27, 2023, and get ready for an unforgettable showdown. As the saying goes, “We Know Friday Nights,” and this one promises to be nothing short of legendary. 

MVP

Max Gainey
Male

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Elijah Creech

DuPont Manual

Elijah is a 4 year member of the football team and a Captain this season. He changed positions entering his junior year to quarterback and is now a 2-year starter at that position. He excels academically at arguably the top academic school in Kentucky and is involved in several community organizations outside of school.
Kolter Smith

Male

Kolter is a model student both in the classroom and on the gridiron. Kolter has maintained an impressive GPA during his academic career while participating in numerous extra-curricular activities. As an established QB on the varsity squad, Kolter is an invaluable teammate.

GAME SUMMARY

Running Back Gates scored a rushing touchdown for Male resulting in a 27-7 score due to a missed pat. And it would remain 27-7 at the half. Scoring opened in the third quarter with a 37-yard pass play results in a Manual score, 27-13 following a blocked pat Male answered back with a long drive resulting in a field goal to make the score 30-13 late in the third quarter. But Manual answered with a field goal of their own dropping the lead to 14 points, 30-16 What looked to be a lock for Male was anything but in the final minutes of the game. Manual engineered a sustained drive of their own, scoring a touchdown late in the fourth quarter making it 30-23 and giving the home team hope of a comeback. What appeared to be a successful onsides kick was ultimately ruled to be a possession for Male thus sealing the victory. Before the game, seniors Kolter Smith of Male High School and Elijah Creech from duPont Manual each were honored with The Great American Rivalry Series Scholar Athlete award by the United States Marines for their leadership both on and off the field.