Phelps Stadium will be the battleground this Friday night as the storied rivalry between Andover and Exeter, known as the E/A game, takes center stage. Dating back to 1878, this clash has become an annual tradition, captivating fans for 141 meetings and cementing its place as one of the most prestigious high school football rivalries in America.
The Big Blue of Andover will be seeking redemption after a tough 42-7 defeat suffered at the hands of the Lions in their last encounter. With Exeter holding the series lead at 75-56-10, the stakes are high for Andover to narrow the gap and make a statement on their rival’s home turf.
As the 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series, this matchup holds even greater significance. Rick Ford, the founder and CEO of the series, emphasized the importance of this game, stating, “The Andover vs. Exeter rivalry is the epitome of high school sports. It’s steeped in history and tradition, bringing communities together and creating memories that last a lifetime. It’s an honor to showcase this game as part of our milestone season.”
Beyond football, this rivalry extends to all varsity sports. Brian Muldoon, Assistant AD for Exeter, shared, “The Exeter/Andover rivalry is not limited to just football; it involves all varsity sports. Each fall, winter, and spring culminates with an exciting rivalry weekend, often viewed as more important than any playoff or championship game. You beat Andover, you’ve had a good season!”
With a crowd size of 3,500 expected at Phelps Stadium, the atmosphere will be electric. The Andover faithful will rally behind their Big Blue, aiming to overturn their recent defeat, while the Lions of Exeter will be eager to extend their dominance and build upon their rich legacy.
These historic institutions boast an impressive list of football alumni, with more than 10 inductees in the college football Hall of Fame, the most of any high school in America. Furthermore, Exeter alumni have gone on to become head football coaches at no less than 33 different colleges and universities, highlighting the caliber of players this rivalry produces.
As the sun sets on Friday night, Andover and Exeter will renew their gridiron battle. Expect intensity, passion, and a fierce contest that will be remembered for years to come. The Great American Rivalry Series proudly presents this clash of titans – a testament to the enduring spirit of high school athletics.
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