MORGANTOWN — The annual Mohawk Bowl football game between Morgantown and University has produced some incredible contests over the many years the rivalry has been played.
The most recent instant classic came in 2022, when Morgantown beat University 21-20 with a goal-line stand on the final play.
That game certainly had playoff implications as both sides finished 2022 with winning records. Still, the stakes have never been higher than they will be at 7 p.m. tonight, when the second-ranked Mohigans (7-1) travel to No. 4 University High (7-2) with both schools looking to position themselves for some type of homefield playoff advantage in the state playoffs.
“I don’t believe it makes it any bigger of a game,” MHS head coach Sean Biser said. “A lot of people focus on that, but for us, we just want to go out there and line up to play football.
The Mohigans’ lone loss of the season came on the road to Martinsburg on October 10. University dropped both of its losses by one possession each in a 42-35 loss to Wheeling Park and a 35-27 defeat to Butler (Pa.).
“What I’ve talked to the team about is being able to have a playoff matchup in the regular season,” UHS head coach Eric Snyder said. “I like how it’s positioned as our last game of the season before heading into the actual postseason.”
UHS would put itself in a prime position to host the first two weeks of the playoffs as one of the top four seeds with a victory over Morgantown on Friday.
For the Mohigans, a win over UHS would more than likely propel them into the top spot in the Class AAAA playoff picture with homefield advantage through the semifinals.
“Our team wants to allow the seniors to play two more home games,” Snyder said. “It’s something the senior group deserves. Our guys have no problem being motivated for this game. There’s a buzz around the town and school that I’m sure will motivate the players like it has me.”
MHS has won the last three games in the rivalry, with two coming by one possession in 2022 and 2023. Last season, the Mohigans dominated the game 49-7.
This season, the contest is a toss-up, as both sides can exploit each other’s weaknesses with their strengths.
The Mohigans’ rushing attack is dynamic, and their offensive line may be one of the best in the state. If the Hawks aren’t able to get off blocks effectively and tackle on first contact, it could be a long night for the UHS defense.
On the flip side, the University passing attack can find success through multiple playmakers, led by quarterback Harrison Helbig, who leads the state in passing yards (2,540). Three UHS receivers have at least six touchdowns, and junior Hayden George surpassed 1,000 yards last week against Preston.
MHS could have some trouble covering all of the weapons the Hawks bring on the outside. However, the Mohigans do have linebackers who can help in coverage.
