In a clash that defines Alabama football lore, the Thompson Warriors and Hoover Buccaneers renew their storied rivalry at Warrior Stadium on October 18. Part of the 21st season of the Great American Rivalry Series, this matchup promises gridiron intensity under Friday night lights. 

Hoover holds a historical edge in the series at 23-9, but Thompson’s recent resurgence adds a layer of unpredictability. Last year’s defensive battle ended with Thompson triumphing 21-11, underscoring their determination to challenge Hoover’s dominance. Since 2017, when Thompson broke Hoover’s 20-game streak, both teams have traded victories, fueling the rivalry’s intensity.

With NFL talent emerging from both schools, including seven players from Hoover and one player from Thompson, this game showcases future stars on the rise. Expect a packed house of 4,500 roaring fans, eager to witness another chapter in this timeless rivalry. 

We Know Friday Nights

  

MVP

Jonah Winston
Hoover

SCHOLAR ATHLETES

Dylan Marquess

Thompson

Dylan is a dedicated student and athlete, currently serving as Class Vice President and Vice President of Leadership for DECA. A proud member of the wrestling team, he is a state champion in wrestling, football, and DECA. Involved in several honor societies and clubs, he excels as a dual enrollment and AP student, balancing academics and athletics with a commitment to leadership and community engagement. He is passionate about making a difference, he continually seeks to inspire peers and give back to his school and community.
John Whisenhunt

Hoover

John is involved with Peer Helping and AP Ambassadors at Hoover High School. He will be inducted into the National Honor Society this year, and is currently a member of Mu Alpha Theta (Math Honor Society) and Spanish Honor Society. John currently has a score of 35 on the ACT and a 4.38 weighted GPA. He will attend The University of Alabama in the Honors College where he will earn a BS degree in Chemical Engineering.

GAME SUMMARY

In one of the most highly anticipated matchups of the week, Thompson hosted Hoover for the Regional title. This rivalry has featured some of the best games in the state the last several years, and this game did not disappoint. Hoover received the opening kickoff and marched down the field pounding it into the endzone, taking an early 7-0 lead. The Thompson offense struggled early ending early drives with punts. After a long Hoover field goal, the Buccaneers took a 10-0 lead. This woke up Thompson's offense as they started moving the ball. They scored the next 10 points to tie it up heading into the half. Hoover's offense picked up where the left off early and scored on a 40 yard run on 4th and 3 to make it 17-10. Thompson responded through the air setting up their QB for a short rushing touchdown to tie it up again. The defenses starting causing havoc late in the third with both teams forcing turnovers. Each turnover resulted in a field goal for their respective teams, keeping the game tied going to overtime. Thompson got the ball first to start OT, scoring a quick touchdown in two plays. However, Hoover broke through the Thompson blocking and blocked the extra point. The blocked PAT set-up Hoover for a dramatic finish. Hoover gave the ball to game MVP Jonah Winston who took a direct snap and juked his way into the endzone. The successful extra point gave the Buccaneers a one point victory in this prolific rivalry, and the regional title!