The atmosphere at Tommy Steward Field is set to be electric on Friday night, as it typically is when Central faces off against Centennial in their yearly rivalry game.

It’s the WCIA 3 Friday Football Fever Spotlight Game of the Week for Friday, Sept. 5.

Both head coaches in this matchup played in the rivalry.

“As a player, we never beat them once,” Chargers’ head coach Kyle Jackson recalled.

In recent years, Centennial has turned the tide in their favor, clinching victories in their last six encounters against Central. It’s a streak the Centennial players are determined to continue.

“If the streak ends now, it would cast a negative light on us, and that’s something no one on this team wants,” explained Simeon Longo, a senior playing linebacker and tight end for Centennial.

The players are well aware of this game’s significance without needing a reminder. The real challenge lies in not overhyping the game and keeping their focus intact.

“They’re pretty adept at getting fired up to play against Central, but it’s crucial they channel that energy appropriately and utilize it productively,” noted Jackson.

Following a tough 42-0 defeat against Peoria High in their season opener, the Chargers feel they’ve been underestimated. Securing a victory against Central could alter that perception.

“I think in general we can most definitely bounce back, show them what we can do,” Centennial senior safety/wide receiver Eli Duma said. “Especially on offense seeing as we didn’t really do much on offense last week.”

The rivalry only gets more exciting when you consider the fact that both teams play their home games at Tommy Stewart Field behind Centennial High School. This year, the Maroons will be listed as the home team in this one.

“We all know who’s field this is.,” Longo said. “We all consider it Centennial’s field. I feel like when Central comes to this field they know it’s Centennial’s field.”

Click here for the game preview from the Maroons perspective.

WCIA will have live pregame coverage leading up to kickoff on Friday, plus highlights from the game at 10 p.m. on Friday Football Fever.