By By SCOTT NOVAK / Dowagiac Daily News
Tonight the state's eighth longest running rivalry will play its final game.
When Dowagiac and Niles hit the field for a key Big 16 Conference West Division clash, 102 years of bitterness will come to an end.
But tonight's game is about more than a rivalry.
The Vikings and Chieftains come into the contest with 4-3 records. Both schools need to win their final two games to qualify for the Michigan High School Athletic Association playoffs.
For Niles, a win would also keep them in a first place tie with Lakeshore atop the West Division standings.
There will be no contrasting styles at play tonight. Both teams like to line it up and run the ball down their opponent's throats.
The Vikings are led by senior running back Lyle Watson, who has been battling injuries this season but is going to suit up and play tonight.
Watson has rushed for more than 700 yards this season and has scored 10 times.
Dowagiac has a multi-pronged attack which is led by a sophomore - Jamie Simpson.
Simpson has more than 600 yards rushing and has scored eight touchdowns. The Chieftains will also count on Jake Shelton.
The two teams are almost a mirror of each other when it comes to season statistics.
The Vikings are averaging 27 points per game and giving up 25 points per game. Dowagiac is averaging 23 points per game and giving up the same defensively.
Both coaches know that the game will not by won by the hype surrounding the contest, but by the players on the field.
Niles coach Dave Janicki said that tonight's game will be decided by field position.
School officials are warning fans to come early because a large crowd is expected. Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m.