Union, Jenks Prepare For Friday Face Off

For the 15th straight year Union and Jenks square off Friday night in the MidFirst Bank Backyard Bowl but this year's game is a little different.

"This game has a spirit about it that maybe's been lacking the last couple years," said Kirk Fridrich.  

"It just seems to get bigger and bigger every year," said Keith Riggs. 

The MidFirst Bank Backyard Bowl may not count for much in the standings, but it sure counts a lot to the players.

"It's super fun. It's one of those games we look forward to every year. The atmosphere is just crazy and everyone loves it," said Brady Latham. 

"They're a great team, but we also have a great team. It's going to be two, looking at two good teams going against each other every year, year in and year out," said Elijah Tomlin. 

Things are different than a year ago. Jenks is 2-0 instead of 0-2 and Union comes in with a loss already for the first time since 2015. But both teams know they'll get each other’s best effort.

"It's always exciting because you know you're going to be tested. Your game-week preparation, there's definitely behind the scenes preparations are pretty heavy," said Fridrich. 

Keith Riggs: "Just year in, year out, two quality teams going head-to-head, it's really exciting to be a part of," said Riggs. 

Obviously, one of the biggest storylines will be on the Trojan sideline. For the first time in more than two decades, Allan Trimble will not be the Jenks head coach, but his presence is still making an impact on both teams.

"It's hard to say that you don't notice a difference because I mean, that guy, he's been there for so long, I mean you saw him on the sidelines when you were in fourth grade," said Landis Morris IV. 

"I think it'll be different, for sure. There's definitely a void there, not seeing Coach Trimble," said Fridrich. 

"He adds value to our program just showing up and visiting with the kids, even if he has nothing formal to say," said Riggs.