CANADIAN, TEXAS -- All eyes are focused on this rivalry. In the last decade its become one of the marquee matchups in the ProNews 7 viewing area, basically having a State Championship game when Stratford, Canadian play. It's also tough to find a seat when these two teams face-off, and the rivalry consumes both towns.
"I got nervous actually last night just thinkin about it last night, Stratford week is big and we're focused and ready," said Canadian Defensive End Ryan Alexander.
"We have more respect for their players, and coaches than we do anyone else. We know it's a tough game when we play them," said Stratford Head Coach Eddie Metcalf.
Home cookin' is the norm, accept in this rivalry. It pays to play on the road, neither team has won at home in the last 4 meetings.
"We want to keep that pattern going, hope we take it to them at their place, and come out with a win," said Stratford Linebacker Chris Hart.
"I've been a part of a home loss and a road win, it's strange how that's happened, but we're going to change that this year," said Canadian Defensive Lineman Taylor Chappell.
Even though the towns and teams love this matchup and get pumped for it every year, both understand there's more season after this game.
"It's a big game, but it's not a do or die ball game, you still have to play each week after," said Metcalf.
"We want to win this game, but it doesn't make or break our season we just want to be the best we can each week," said Koetting.
The big game will kick off Friday night in Canadian at 7:30.
