Game From Obscurity

Rare Wednesday posting for our weekly excursion beyond Division 1 football– I’ve got a turkey to brine, people.

Several folks (Ok, only one) gave me grief for highlighting a game last week that was not a part of the NCAA Division 3 playoff, but some other “bowl” game from something called the ECAC. Well, consider me vindicated: Gregg Easterbrook did the same exact freaking thing over on the WWL. And he’s rich and famous and stuff.  Worth the click; he also discusses our favorite weasel coach immediately afterwards.

This week’s game goes beyond the NCAA, beyond the NAIA, beyond whatever governing body supports The Apprentice School, all the way down to High School football. Yup, we’re visiting the 102nd incarnation of the Frisco Bell Game in suburban St. Louis. So that means that this is the soundtrack for the rest of this post.

While the rivalry started in 1901, the game itself was moved to Thanksgiving afternoon in the fall of 1907; the trophy was donated by the Frisco Railroad Company beginning in 1952. The entire week has events scheduled for both schools and alumni, including the “friendship dance”. Given that it’s Missouri, it might also be known as “the friendship dance where you’d better not get too friendly, if you know what I mean“. Feel free to test your “Frisco Bell” knowledge with this handy quiz… ’cause you know I loves me some quizzes.

Webster’s Grove is currently undefeated ranked #2 in the state at the Division 5 level, and will be playing in the State Championship on Saturday. As such, this year’s “Turkey Day” game will be played between the JV squads of both teams.

The Pioneers of Kirkwood High varsity squad ended the year 6-3, and ranked 14th at the state Division 5 level. Should their junior varsity fail to win the coveted Bell, they might be satisfied instead in purchasing a salt spreader, although it’s uncertain whether or not it will have the “Turkey Day” logo on it.

Thanksgiving Day Junior Varsity High school football. If nothing else, this week’s Game from Obscurity delivers a “win” in the “truth in advertising” front. And, I guarantee that it will certainly be better than watching the Lions play.

To make up for the JV status of this year’s clash, here’ highlights from the 2008 game, the 101st in this rivalry.