The 5 Most Intense Secrets Behind The Great American Rivalry Series' Enduring Legacy

Every autumn, a unique cultural phenomenon known as the Great American Rivalry Series® ignites communities across the United States, transforming local high school football games into national spectacles. As of late 2025, the series is wrapping up its unforgettable 22nd season, having showcased the most intense, multi-generational gridiron battles in the nation, proving that the spirit of 'Friday Night Lights' is stronger than ever. This platform doesn't just celebrate touchdowns; it honors tradition, academic excellence, and the deep emotional connection between a town and its team, cementing its place as a cornerstone of American sports culture.

The Great American Rivalry Series, established in 2004 by iHigh, Inc., was created to celebrate the uniquely American sport of high school football and the cultural pull of "Friday Night in America." Far beyond a simple scoreboard, the series highlights games steeped in over a century of history, where bragging rights are passed down through generations of families and alumni. From the "Golden Football" trophy to the prestigious Scholar Athlete Award, the series has become a powerful engine for community engagement and a vital part of the high school experience.

The Heart of the Battle: Featured Rivalries and 2025 Season Highlights

The 21st and 22nd seasons (2024 and 2025) of the Great American Rivalry Series have continued to spotlight premier matchups, spanning over 34 states and featuring more than 70 games in 2024 alone. These games are not merely contests; they are annual traditions that define entire towns. The series ensures that the history and passion of these matchups are documented and celebrated on a national stage. Here are some of the most recent and notable rivalries that have captured the nation's attention:

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• The Jesuit vs. Holy Cross Showdown: A classic New Orleans, Louisiana, rivalry, this matchup is one of the most storied in the country, often reaching its 105th meeting. The stakes are always high, with the winning team claiming the coveted "Golden Football" trophy.
• The Oxford Chargers' Historic Tie: In a rainy night in Oxford, Mississippi, the 54th edition of their rivalry saw Oxford High School even the series with their opponent at 26 wins apiece, a testament to the long-term competitive balance of these games.
• The Pickerington Derby: The clash between Pickerington North and Pickerington Central in Ohio is a perennial feature on the series calendar, representing one of the most intense cross-town rivalries in the Midwest, featured prominently in the 2025 season.
• The New Oxford Colonial Defense: The 2025 game featuring South Western vs. New Oxford was a defensive battle. New Oxford’s Colonial defense stood strong in the final moments, sealing a tight 14-7 victory. The game also highlighted New Oxford QB Luke Frey, a standout Scholar Athlete.

The sheer number of featured games—71 games in the 2024 season—demonstrates the series' commitment to showcasing the breadth of American high school football talent.

The Untold Impact: More Than Just a Game

The true legacy of the Great American Rivalry Series extends far beyond the final score. It functions as a powerful philanthropic platform, fostering community engagement and investing directly back into the schools. During the 21st season (2024), the series contributed over $113,000 to schools and athletic departments across the country, including $42,000 in direct scholarship funds.

The Prestigious Scholar Athlete Award

One of the most significant and celebrated aspects of the series is the annual Scholar Athlete Award. This award is a college scholarship presented to the senior football letterman from each participating school who possesses the highest grade point average (GPA). This initiative powerfully reinforces the message that academic achievement is just as important as athletic prowess.

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• National Recognition: The series compiles a national "All-America" Team of the top Scholar Athletes. For instance, Dylan Marquess Thompson from Alabama was named a Top 25 Scholar Athlete for the 2024 season, highlighting his dedication both on the field and in the classroom.
• Community Involvement: The public is heavily involved in the selection process, with voting for the 2025 Scholar Athlete All-America Team opening in mid-November, turning the recognition into a true community event.

The Rivalry MVP and Championship Trophy

At the conclusion of each featured game, the winning team is presented with the official Great American Rivalry Series Championship Trophy, a symbol of their victory and a piece of history. Furthermore, a single player is selected by local media members as the game's Most Valuable Player (MVP). This individual award recognizes outstanding performance under immense pressure, often launching the player into greater college recruitment visibility.

How The Series Defines the 'Friday Night Lights' Experience

For more than two decades, the Great American Rivalry Series has been a key driver in preserving the tradition of "Friday Night Lights." It provides a national stage for local heroes and their communities, ensuring that these games—often the biggest event of the year for a town—receive the recognition they deserve.

The series partners with major brands to offer in-game activations and season-long integrations, which not only provide financial support but also enhance the fan experience. This allows brands to connect with the multi-generational audience of high school football fans, estimated to be around 75 million people. The platform is a perfect blend of high-stakes sports, community engagement, and academic recognition, creating a truly unique and enduring American tradition.

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As the series moves into its next season, the focus remains on celebrating the die-hard fans, the dedicated coaches, and the young athletes who embody the spirit of their communities. The legacy of the Great American Rivalry Series is one of passion, tradition, and a commitment to honoring the best of American high school sportsmanship and scholarship.