Hampton and Phoebus met for the first time in 1976 and have since developed an intense rivalry. Hampton dominated the early years of the series, but since 2000 this rivalry has only grown more intense as Phoebus has been up to the momentous challenge Hampton presents. Hampton won in 2015 and 2016, but the Phantoms from Phoebus recorded a famous 14-12 win last season over the Crabbers.

Having featured NFL players such as Tyrod Taylor and Tajh Boyd back in the 2000s, a new crop of talent will be looking to etch their names in the history of this rivalry. This season, the Phantoms come into the game with tons of momentum, ranked as one of the best teams in Virginia this year. Hampton, meanwhile, have struggled, despite being a dominant force in Virginia in recent seasons. One thing could turn their season around, though, and that’s a win over arch rival Phoebus.

MVP

Chris Daniels

Phoebus

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Latrelle Smith

Phoebus

Latrelle is a 4-year varsity starter and has been selected All-Conference for all four years. Trell is graduating with highest honors and is a member of the National Honor Society. Trell has not decided on which college he will attend but plans to attend a University where he can continue his football career. Accompanying Latrelle are his mother Lisa and father Julius Leaks.

Jaelen Bethea

Hampton

Jaylen is a 2-year letterman in football and 3-year letterman in track. Jaelen is also a member of the National Honor society. Jaelen plans to attend college and major in Kinesiology. Accompanying Jaelen are his mother Renata Bethea, father Alexon Bethea, and brother Dai Jour Battle.

GAME SUMMARY

The Hampton Crabbers came into this game as the clear underdog, but they managed to stay with Phoebus far longer than some predicted. The Crabber defense played so well it looked as if they would lead their team into the half only down 3-0. However, a fumbled punt late in the 2nd quarter doomed the Phantoms to a 10-0 halftime deficit. From there, the the game was all Phoebus. MVP Chris Daniels led the way for Phoebus through the air, completing 13 of 22 passes for 172 yards. Phoebus rode Daniels and the momentum to a final score of 36-0 over arch rival Hampton.