High school football fans in Northeast Alabama are in for a treat this Thursday night as two Sand Mountain titans clash on the gridiron. The defending state champion Fyffe Red Devils, proudly holding the No. 1 spot in Class 3A, are set to travel 20 miles north to take on the Pisgah Eagles, who currently top the rankings in Class 2A. This much-anticipated game at Sam Kenimer Field marks the season opener for both teams. The Red Devils got the best of the Eagles twice last season, knocking off Pisgah 56-42 in the regular season and 32-14 in the Class 2A semifinals.
Fyffe Red Devils
Under the leadership of legendary head coach Paul Benefield, the Red Devils enter the game with an impressive 13-game winning streak. Their defeat was in the season opener against Geraldine in 2023. Benefield, now in his 28th season at the helm of the Fyffe program, has an astounding record of 306-45 and has lead the Red Devils to seven state championships, inculding clinching the last two Class 2A titles in 2022 and 2023. Benefield is currently the third all-time winningest head coach in Alabama high school football history.
Fyffe’s move from Class 2A to Class 3A in the off-season has only added to the anticipation surrounding this year’s lineup.
Pisgah Eagles
Coached by Luke Pruitt, the Pisgah Eagles are set to take over the top spot in Class 2A north in 2024. Pruitt, who is entering his seventh season at the helm, has amassed a record of 41-30. Under his guidance, the Eagles have made semifinal appearances in the last two seasons, each time facing—and falling to—the powerhouse Fyffe Red Devils.
The Eagles have been relentless in their pursuit of breaking Fyffe’s dominance, especially given their previous encounters. They will look to leverage their familiarity with Fyffe’s offense to make a strong early season statement on their home turf.
A Historic Rivalry
The rivalry between Fyffe and Pisgah is one of rich history and intense competition. Having met 35 times since 1956, Fyffe holds the upper hand with an all-time advantage of 20-14-1 and has secured victories in the last six matchups. This game provides Pisgah with an opportunity to change the narrative in north Alabama.
Game Preview
With both teams at the top of their respective classes, this game is shaping up to be one of the most exciting matchups of the 2024 season. Fans can expect a showcase of talent, strategy, and determination as these two decorated teams go head-to-head.
The Devils will rely on their championship experience and veteran leadership to maintain their winning streak, while Pisgah aims to exploit their home-field advantage and the momentum of a fresh season to overturn recent history.
Don’t miss this epic battle that promises to deliver not just a game, but an unforgettable evening of high school football.
