Legendary Rivalry Renewed: Fairmont Senior and Bridgeport Set to Clash
In West Virginia, two high school football powerhouses are gearing up for a much-anticipated showdown. Fairmont Senior and Bridgeport, both known for their annual postseason success, are set to meet on Friday night in a battle that has captivated fans for years.
Bridgeport is riding a streak of 16 consecutive seasons with at least one postseason victory, while Fairmont Senior has won an impressive 22 playoff games since 2015. Together, these teams have accumulated seven state championships in the last decade, a testament to their dominance on the field.
The series between these two rivals has been tightly contested in recent years. Bridgeport has emerged victorious in the last three meetings, including a close 24-21 win last year. However, prior to Bridgeport’s recent success, Fairmont Senior had enjoyed a four-game win streak in the rivalry.
When it comes to the current season, Fairmont Senior is off to a hot start with a perfect 3-0 record. The team has overwhelmed its opponents, outscoring them 160-34. With their starters rarely playing in the second half, the Polar Bears have demonstrated their depth and dominance. On the other hand, Bridgeport has posted a 2-1 record, with two convincing wins and a narrow 8-point loss to Morgantown.
Both head coaches are aware of the challenge that awaits their teams. Tyler Phares, Bridgeport’s head coach, emphasized the importance of tackling in open space against Fairmont Senior’s formidable offense. Led by junior quarterback Brody Whitehair, who has thrown for 719 yards and ten touchdowns, the Polar Bears pose a dual threat with their ability to run and pass the ball.
Fairmont Senior’s leading rusher, senior Dylan Ours, is a versatile player who excels at various positions on the field. Phares acknowledges Ours’ athleticism and highlights the need for his team to be prepared for any situation.
In terms of the game’s physicality, Fairmont Senior head coach Nick Bartic emphasized the mental aspect of maintaining focus throughout the contest. Acknowledging the reputation of Bridgeport as a physical team, Bartic stressed the need for his players to strike a balance between physicality and mental clarity.
The matchup between these two rivals goes beyond a typical regular-season game. It carries the weight of conference standings and ratings points, as well as the local pride associated with the Big 10 Conference. The clash between Fairmont Senior and Bridgeport is always eagerly anticipated by fans, creating an atmosphere akin to a state championship game.
As Friday night approaches, anticipation builds for another thrilling installment in the legendary rivalry between Fairmont Senior and Bridgeport. With their history of postseason success and a chance to make a statement in the conference, both teams are sure to bring their best to the field. Football fans across West Virginia eagerly await the outcome of this epic clash.
