The William L. Buford Stadium is bracing itself for an epic clash as the Oxford Chargers prepare to take on the Lafayette Commodores in a highly anticipated football showdown on August 25, 2023. Aptly named the “Cross Town Showdown,” this game holds significant importance as it is part of the 20th season of the prestigious Great American Rivalry Series.

Rick Ford, the founder and CEO of the Great American Rivalry Series, shared his excitement about this historic matchup, stating, “The Oxford vs. Lafayette rivalry exemplifies the very essence of high school football. The rich history, passionate fan base, and intense competition make this game a cornerstone of the Friday night lights experience.”

With a crowd size of 5,800 fans expected to fill the stands, the atmosphere at William L. Buford Stadium will be electric. In their previous meeting, the Chargers and the Commodores engaged in a high-scoring affair during the opening quarter. However, the defenses settled in during the second quarter, resulting in four consecutive 4-and-outs. It was then that the Oxford Chargers found their rhythm, unleashing a barrage of 28 unanswered points. Though Lafayette respondedlate, the game concluded in a resounding 43-19 victory for the Chargers.

As the Oxford Chargers and the Lafayette Commodores prepare to renew their rivalry, both teams will be driven by a burning desire for redemption and the coveted title of victor in this storied series. The Commodores, carrying the legacy of their illustrious mascot, are determined to reclaim their position at the top. Meanwhile, the Chargers, fueled by their indomitable spirit, are eager to extend their recent success and continue their winning ways.

The all-time series currently stands at 26-24-2 in favor of the Lafayette Commodores, a testament to the closely contested nature of this rivalry. With each meeting, both teams leave it all on the field, competing fiercely for local pride and bragging rights that reverberate throughout the community.

Mark your calendars and get ready for the Cross Town Showdown between the Oxford Chargers and the Lafayette Commodores. The 20th season of the Great American Rivalry Series has chosen this matchup for a reason – the passion, tradition, and excitement surrounding this game are unmatched. Friday night lights are about to illuminate William L. Buford Stadium like never before. We Know Friday Nights.

MVP

Collin Flanigan
Oxford

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Andrew Jordan

Lafayette

Andrew has earned his Eagle Scout Distinction with Oxford Troop 146, he is an alumni of Lafayette Junior Leadership Program, referees multiple sports with Oxford Park Commission, played travel soccer with Oxford Football Club, and served as a Boys State Ambassador this past summer. He is an active member of North Oxford Baptist Church where he serves on the youth leadership team. Andrew is a varsity football player, varsity soccer goalie, and archery team member as well as being involved in Commodores for Christ, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, National Honor Society, Lafayette High School Literacy Council, and the Chess Club. Andrew is looking forward to pursuing degrees in Education and Computer Science.
Jack Harper

Oxford

Jack Harper will serve as a team captain for the 2023 season and will be serving his third season as a member of the OHS Football leadership council. In 2022, Jack was named to the 2-6A All Region Team. In addition to playing football, Jack is also a 4-year member of the OHS Baseball team and played OHS basketballl for two years.

GAME SUMMARY

It was another great "Cross Town Showdown", Oxford got off to a strong start opening with a 40-yard touchdown pass and following it up with a successful 2-point conversion, allowing them to establish an early lead of 8-0. As the first half approached its end, the Chargers managed to score another touchdown, maintaining their advantage. The second half mirrored the first, as Oxford picked off a Lafayette pass and effectively pressuring Lafayette throughout the third quarter. The Chargers continued to impress on both sides of the ball increasing their lead to 35-7 before the fourth quarter was underway. The Chargers maintained their momentum into the fourth quarter, putting another one in the end zone to increase their lead and ultimately win the 2023 edition of this incredible rivalry 42-7.