Some rivalries transcend championships. For Rigby and Madison, beating each other isn't just a goal - it's the goal, sometimes even ranking ahead of state titles in the minds of players and fans alike.
The Trojans call their rivals "that team up north." The Bobcats return the sentiment with equal fervor. When these programs meet Friday night at Madison High School, bragging rights matter more than any trophy.
But recent history has been unkind to the Bobcats. Rigby has won five of the last six meetings, and not just won - dominated, claiming each victory by double digits. That stretch corresponds perfectly with the Trojans' rise to the top of 6A, where they've captured four of the last six state championships. Only one other team in classification history has achieved that feat.
However, Madison enters hungry to break the streak.
STREAM: Rigby vs. Madison, live on Idahosports.com
The No. 3 Trojans (5-1, 3-0 6A SEIC) appear to have found their rhythm after a surprising double-digit road loss to Bishop Kelly three weeks ago. They responded by making No. 19 Highland look overmatched in a 31-point rout last week, showcasing the firepower that makes them one of Idaho's most dangerous teams.
Only No. 2 Rocky Mountain and No. 25 Capital produce more offense than Rigby's 37.67 points per game. All-state quarterback Jacob Flowers and running back Amani Morel form one of the state's most potent 1-2 punches, capable of attacking defenses through the air and on the ground.
However, No. 12 Madison (4-2, 2-1 6A SEIC) has legitimate reasons to believe they can snap the losing streak. The Bobcats' two defeats have come against a pair of top-10 opponents - No. 5 Hillcrest and No. 6 Skyline - by a combined two points. Those razor-thin margins against elite competition prove Madison can hang with anyone.
Madison also brings a top-5 defense that surrenders just 18.17 points per game, giving them the personnel to slow down Rigby's explosive attack.
The Bobcats' offense has found its identity in recent weeks. Running back Brock Hammond has been electric, posting three consecutive 100-yard rushing games to power the ground game. Quarterback Micah Dougherty has settled in under center, providing steady leadership.
What Madison still lacks is that statement victory - the kind of win that validates everything else. Friday night offers the perfect opportunity.
For Rigby, continuing their dominance over Madison would reinforce their status as the conference's elite program while keeping their championship defense on track.
For Madison, toppling the Trojans would be more than just a conference win - it would be the defining moment of their season and proof they belong among 6A's best.
The stakes extend beyond pride. The winner almost certainly claims the 6A Southeastern Idaho Conference title and secures a coveted first-round playoff bye, making Friday's rivalry critical for postseason positioning.
Here's what you need to know about Rigby at Madison, including live stream information.
How to watch Rigby at Madison football today
Live Stream: Watch on Idahosports.com
Rigby at Madison will air live on Idahosports.com.
Rigby at Madison start time
Date: Friday, Oct. 10
Time: 7 p.m. MDT
The opening kickoff is set for 7 p.m. MDT on Friday, Oct. 10. The game will be played at Madison High School in Rexburg.
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