The Thrall Tigers varsity football team will renew its rivalry with Thorndale in the Battle of Highway 79 on Friday, Aug. 29 at 7 p.m., at Thorndale High School.
The Tigers will look to build on last year’s success against the Bulldogs after earning a 50-29 win in 2024. However, Thrall will take the field without several key contributors, including quarterback Chance Parker and wide receiver Landon Gregory, who graduated in the spring.
Thrall will lean on its ground game, led by senior running back Christopher Kelm. He will run behind an experienced offensive line anchored by senior center and guard Dakota Marak. Senior receiver Jaden Spence is also expected to play a bigger role in the passing attack.
This matchup will be an early test for both teams as new faces step into larger roles. Thorndale also lost several playmakers, including leading rusher Noah Crabtree and starting quarterback Gunnar Ferguson.
The Bulldogs return two of their top pass catchers in juniors Jaxson Eshberger and Ethan Schramm, giving the offense some continuity. With both teams replacing significant offensive production, this year’s meeting could turn into more of a defensive battle.
