Both unbeaten, both experienced and talented, both with a Southeastern District title in their sights. Friday's Game of the Week pitted rivals against each other with extremely high stakes. Then factor in that last season's matchup went to two overtimes and the hype was at an all-time high for King's Fork vs Indian River.
The pregame extracurricular activities certainly supported that narrative. Indian River's entrance for warm ups led to a stare down at the 50-yard line. Plenty of words were exchanged throughout, and the game was physical from the opening kick.
Indian River struck first with a drive dominated by Jason Preston, ending the first quarter with a 7-0 lead.
The King's Fork rushing attack would take over from there, specifically Javon Ford. The all-state senior running back scored two straight touchdowns to give the Bulldogs the lead.
The defense would clamp down as well, not allowing another point to the Braves, leading to a 33-7 win at home for King's Fork.
The Bulldogs have a clear path to a district title, with Oscar Smith presenting the most significant hurdle remaining on their schedule. Indian River went from a mid season loss last season to the state tournament, so the Braves regroup with a lot of football left to play.
Here are scores from Friday night's games:
Maury 49, Norcom 12
Green Run 40, Salem 18
King’s Fork 33, Indian River 7
Warwick 48, Heritage 0
Cox 32, Ocean Lakes 24
Granby 57, Lakeland 0
Poquoson 30, Jamestown 0
Nansemond River 21, Western Branch 0
New Kent 29, Tabb 21
Smithfield 20, York 0
First Colonial 20, Princess Anne 13
Kellam 11, Tallwood 7
Kempsville 16, Landstown 12
Lake Taylor 53, Booker T. Washington 13
Norview 35, Manor 12
Deep Creek 13, Hickory 14
Grassfield 29, Great Bridge 15
Norfolk Academy 21, Atlantic Shores 7
Saturday, Oct. 5
#14 Hampton vs. #2 Phoebus at Darling Stadium, 12pm
Gloucester vs. Menchville at Todd Stadium, 12pm
Greenbrier Christian at Virginia Episcopal, 2 p.m.