'Added Excitement:' Jenks, Union Meet In Annual Backyard Bowl

One of the biggest high school football rivalries, Jenks and Union, is set for Friday night.

The Trojans and Redhawks face off in the 21st annual Backyard Bowl and both coaches are working to get their teams ready to go.

Both teams need wins to start district play coming off losses last week, Jenks to Owasso and Union to Stillwater.

Last year's Backyard Bowl was back and forth and the Trojans won 31-24.

The big-time matchup gets the towns and coaches excited for the week ahead.

“It's really difficult to get a true feel for what this rivalry is all about; the rich history, the big games, the exciting finishes, without being there and experiencing it yourself,” said Jenks head coach Keith Riggs. “It's hard to describe what it means to both schools and both communities.”

“You're representing your school more in this game than maybe some other games,” Union head coach Kirk Fridrich said. “So there's some of that added excitement, sometimes added pressure.”

It's the 71st overall meeting between the two schools on the gridiron, with Jenks leading all time.

The game is Friday at 7 p.m. at Union High School.