High school football fans in Alabama are in for an exciting showdown this week as the Geraldine Bulldogs travel 10 miles up Highway 75 to face off against their Dekalb County rivals, the Fyffe Red Devils. The week 9 clash, promises to be a thrilling encounter between two Sand Mountain football powers.
Led by head coach Michael Davis, the Geraldine Bulldogs are riding a five-game winning streak after suffering their lone setback of the season to the Sylvania Rams in Week 2. Dominating their opponents with an impressive overall score of 383-111, the Bulldogs have consistently showcased their offensive prowess. Notably, they have held three teams to one score or less and exceeded 50 points on four occasions, even surpassing 60 points in their last two games. Entering this matchup with a 7-1 record overall and 5-1 in regional play, the Bulldogs are a formidable force.
The Fyffe Red Devils, under the guidance of legendary head coach Paul Benefield, come into this game as the two-time defending state champions in Class 2A. Recently elevated to Class 3A, the Red Devils boast a 6-2 record overall and a flawless 6-0 mark in Class 3A, Region 8 play. Their dominance is evident as they’ve outscored opponents 351-111, achieved two shutouts, and scored over 40 points in six matchups. With both teams already clinching spots in the AHSAA Class 3A postseason, a victory for the Red Devils will officially claim their ninth consecutive region championship and their 13th in the last 14 seasons.
This northeast Alabama grudge match, first played in 1933, is steeped in history and has always carried weight. However, this year holds even more significance as both Dekalb County programs compete in the same Class 3A region. The Red Devils are eager to avenge their 2023 17-6 loss to the Bulldogs. Historically, Fyffe holds a 45-35-2 advantage over Geraldine, but recent encounters have seen the Bulldogs win two of the last three meetings in the series.
As anticipation builds for this intense rivalry, fans can expect a hard-fought battle under the lights at Paul Benefield Stadium. Both teams are determined to make their mark and secure bragging rights in this iconic showdown.
