While they may no longer play on a yearly basis, there is certainly some history between Auburn High and Valley.
There was a time when the two teams locked up every year — turning the game into somewhat of a rivalry.
“At least all the way back to the 50s and up until the 90s,” Valley head coach Roger McDonald said about the history of the two teams playing. “And it was always a rivalry.”
McDonald, who played for Valley, knows the rivalry well.
“Valley folks have always felt like teams like Auburn and Opelika look down their noses at us,” McDonald said. “I think a lot of folks here in the Valley still feel that way.”
Over time, the teams stopped playing each other regularly. They played consistently up until 1999, but didn’t face off again until 2005.
Auburn won that game, 20-7, under then-head coach Robert Maddox — who was also formerly a head coach at Valley.
But this is 2008 and both teams are simply ready to get the season under way at 7 p.m. today at the Valley Sportsplex.
And with it being the first game for both teams, Auburn head coach Tim Carter said he doesn’t fully know what to expect from the Rams — or his team.
“That’s the beauty of high school coaching,” Carter said. “I’ve been proud of our team’s work ethic in the summer and we’ve done all we can do to prepare our guys.
“But we just won’t know until those lights come on (tonight).”
Part of Carter being unsure of what to expect from his team is the fact the Tigers are rebuilding with just seven total returning starters.
However, Auburn does benefit from the fact that junior Calvin Jenkins is back at quarterback, and he has 6-5, 325-pound lineman John Sullen to run behind.
The defense returns just four starters, but has two key players on the line.
“They’re so big on both sides of the ball,” McDonald said. “They’re front four will be as good as anyone we play — they’re just a real good Class 6A team.”
While Auburn is in a rebuilding mode, Valley is in good shape with 15 total starters back, including nine on defense.
But it’s the Rams’ offensive potential that concerns Carter.
“They have a lot of speed at the skill positions, big receivers and a quarterback who has all the tools to be special,” Carter said. “And then you throw in a couple of really good running backs to that.”
Brent Osborn (6-4, 205), returns to run Valley’s run-oriented “Rambone” offense. But with his strong throwing capabilities Osborn will also look to a host of receivers — namely 2007 All-Area selection Salasky Gates.
On the ground, the Rams have three proven backs to turn to, including senior Kensorrio Warren and junior Timvontae Walker.
tpeavy@oanow.com | 737-2568
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