The Big Game is only hours away

MADISON- The day is finally here. The biggest football game of the year and one of the biggest events of the year in Madison is tonight when Bob Jones (0-2) faces James Clemens (1-0).  Kickoff is at 7 pm at Madison City Schools Stadium.

Bob Jones is the host this year. James Clemens is still looking for their first win in the series having lost all five meetings.

Last year the game went down to the final play after Bob Jones scored 14 points in the fourth quarter on two Jets turnovers. James Clemens drove to the Bob Jones five yard line as time ran down trying to send the game to overtime but an interception by Kyle Parker ended the game. The final score was 28-20.

Another close, exciting game is expected tonight.

Administrators are urging fans to arrive early, have $5 ready for the parking attendant if you want to park in the stadium parking lot, and buy your tickets in advance at the schools or online.

James Clemens Athletic Director Rusty Smith said that last year the fire marshal closed the gates when he determined the stadium was at capacity. He said that his final count showed about 8,000 in the stadium.

Two years ago fans flowed out of the field in the area around the south endzone but fencing was added that prevented that from happening last year.

The game will be live streamed on http://watch.nfhsnetwork.com and on radio at http://playactionsports.wixsite.com/home .

The game is not only a huge rivalry but carries importance because it is the region opener for both teams.

“I think it’s one of the best football games in Alabama,” Bob Jones Head football Coach Kevin Rose said. “I coached in the Hoover Vestavia games twice and the Bob Jones James Clemens game atmosphere is as good as you will find in this state. To play in front of 9,000 people is very special for the players.”

Rose is 5-0 against James Clemens. “Each year is a different team and this year will be a tremendous challenge for our football team. I’m 0-0- against this year’s James Clemens team.”