In theory, one might think the Winder-Barrow High School and Apalachee High School football teams have little to play for this upcoming Friday night.
Afterall, both teams are out of playoff contention and in the grand scheme of things have little to be motivated about. You could think that, but you’d be wrong of course.
Both teams have plenty to play for when they meet at W. Clair Harris Stadium at 7:30 p.m. this Friday.
First there is the pride factor. This game has always meant a lot to the players. It also means a great deal to the fans and supporters of each school. It’s a good, old-fashioned rivalry of course and both teams want to win the game. It’s doubtful anyone could dispute that.
For AHS, a win Friday would give the Wildcats a 5-5 record and a chance to finish fifth in the region. Considering how top heavy 8-AAAAA is, finishing with a 4-4 mark within region play is an accomplishment.
There was concern earlier this week about how mentally prepared AHS would be Friday night. The Wildcats lost a disappointing contest to Heritage last week which ended the team’s playoff chances for 2012. Still, by the time kickoff arrives this week, most be would surprised if the team wasn’t ready to compete.
For WBHS, one burden has already been lifted during the 2012 season. The Bulldoggs no longer have to hear about a losing streak following their win against region foe Cedar Shoals almost two weeks ago. WBHS has been competitive in other games this fall as well and a win this week would skyrocket the team into the postseason.
The Bulldogg players have continued to believe in themselves and their hard work is finally showing signs of progress.
Both teams have plenty of talent on both sides of the football. Both teams have a great deal of pride and that will be on display as well this Friday.
The connections between the programs are numerous including the fact that WBHS head coach David Wagner is a former defensive coordinator at AHS.
In addition, AHS defensive coordinator Matt Sorrells is a WBHS graduate. Jeff Maddox used to coach for the Bulldoggs and is now on the sidelines for the Wildcats. These are only a few of the tie-ins between the schools and their football programs.
It should make an interesting game to watch.
In theory, the outcome may not mean much but don’t mention that the players and coaches of both teams.
Chris Bridges is sports editor of the Barrow Journal. You can contact him at cbridges@barrowjournal.com.
