‘Two-blues’ rivalry a region title tussle

Hawks at Farragut for a No. 1 playoff seed

Considering the rivalry, what’s at stake in terms of a Region 1-6A championship — and a possible revenge motive for the home team — Hardin Valley Academy’s trip south on Campbell Station Road to Farragut High School takes on a unique flavor this Friday night.

Rallying from a 17-0 deficit to win 35-17 at Dobyns-Bennett, then dominating a red-hot Bearden team start to finish, 27-7, last week at HVA has the Hawks (6-3, 4-1) in high gear for this Oct. 26 showdown (7:30 p.m. opening kickoff) at FHS’s Bill Clabo Field.

“We know we’re going to have our hands full. We had a great game against them here last year (a dramatic 37-36 upset victory), and coach (Eddie) Courtney is a heck of a football coach, and he’s got a great program over there,” HVA head coach Wes Jones said.

About the Hawks, Courtney said, “They are a much improved team and they are a team that’s playing together. And they are a very physical football team.”

As for keys to victory, “It’s going to be the team that can be focused ... and not turn the ball over,” said Courtney, whose team is 8-1, 4-1.

Opening kickoff is 7:30 p.m., this Friday, Oct. 26, at FHS’s Bill Calbo Field.