For the second consecutive season, the Wetumpka Indians and Stanhope Elmore Mustangs find themselves facing a rivalry showdown with their postseason hopes hanging in the balance. Friday night’s matchup will determine which team advances to the playoffs and which sees its season come to an end, adding even greater significance to an already heated in-county rivalry. Wetumpka enters the contest looking to rebound from a 45-13 loss to Pike Road, while Stanhope Elmore hopes to carry the momentum from its dominant 42-0 victory over Park Crossing into one of the most important games of the year.

Wetumpka sits at 5-4 on the season, while Stanhope Elmore holds a 4-4 record. Despite their different results last week, both teams have an opportunity to finish the regular season with a statement victory in a rivalry that means plenty to their respective communities.The Indians struggled to find offensive consistency against Pike Road, as injuries and missed opportunities made it difficult to keep pace with the Patriots. Wetumpka reached the red zone but failed to capitalize on several early opportunities, allowing Pike Road to seize control with its rushing attack.

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file/ TPI Wetumpka's Kaleb Ballard prepares for face off against Stanhope Elmore

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file/TPI Stanhope's Damarrian Barnes sets himself up for a big showdown against the Wetumpka Indians for this intense rivlary game