District leaders put school pride—and their wardrobes—on the line in friendly bet ahead of nationally televised showdown
FOLSOM—The Friday night lights are shining a little brighter this week as two of Northern California’s football powerhouses prepare to collide on the national stage. Folsom High School’s Bulldogs and Grant Union High School’s Pacers, both perennial titans in California prep football, will square off Saturday, August 23, in a matchup broadcast live on ESPN.
The game is more than just a battle for early-season bragging rights—it’s become the centerpiece of a spirited but good-natured rivalry between the districts’ leaders. Folsom Cordova Unified Superintendent Erik Swanson and Twin Rivers Unified Superintendent Dr. Steve Martinez have agreed to a friendly wager to highlight the showdown. The terms? The losing superintendent will don the winning team’s jersey at a public board meeting, post a photo online, and record a celebratory video message praising the victorious program.
“This is about more than football—it’s about celebrating our students, their hard work, and the opportunities they have to grow through academics, athletics, and leadership,” Swanson said. “Win or lose, I’m proud of the talent and character our student-athletes bring to the field and to our community.”
Martinez echoed the sentiment, while confidently backing his Pacers. “High school sports have a unique way of bringing people together. This game is an opportunity to showcase not only our incredible student-athletes, but also the commitment our schools share to supporting all students, building strong programs, and fostering partnerships across our broader community. The Pacers are ready for the challenge—and ready to make some history on ESPN.”
Folsom Times photo by P.J. Petersen.
Both superintendents emphasized that the wager is about building school pride, highlighting positive collaboration, and giving student-athletes an unforgettable experience. The community is encouraged to pack the stands, wear school colors, and flood social media with messages of support. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at Grant Union High School.
The matchup marks the 16th year of ESPN’s High School Kickoff series, which features elite programs from across the country. For Grant, it’s a rare chance to host a nationally televised contest at their Sacramento campus. For Folsom, it’s another opportunity to showcase a program that has become one of the most decorated in the state.
The Bulldogs come in ranked 20th nationally, boasting a tradition that includes four straight Sac-Joaquin Section Division I titles, 11 section championships since 2010, and five CIF State crowns. Quarterback Ryder Lyons, ranked 49th nationally and committed to Brigham Young University, leads the charge, along with offensive tackle Vlad Dyakonov, ranked 214th and bound for USC.
Grant, meanwhile, has experienced its own resurgence. The Pacers have won three consecutive section championships under co-head coaches Carl Reed and Syd Thompson, both alumni of the program. The school owns 10 section titles and three CIF State crowns, including the distinction of being the only Sac-Joaquin Section team ever to win a CIF State Open Division State Championship. Tight end Rahzario Edwards, ranked 58th with multiple offers from SEC and Big Ten schools, headlines this year’s roster.
Both schools bring proud traditions and passionate fan bases, creating a setting where school pride, community support, and national attention converge in one high-energy kickoff.
For Folsom fans, the ESPN spotlight is just the beginning of a grueling slate in 2025. The Bulldogs opened their preseason with the Blue and White Scrimmage August 8 and a tune-up against St. Mary’s of Stockton on August 15. Following Saturday’s clash with Grant, the Bulldogs will travel to San Mateo to face Junipero Serra August 30, followed by a road showdown with Mission Viejo September 5.
The Bulldogs’ home opener comes September 12 against Sacred Heart Cathedral Prep, before they launch into Sierra Foothill League play September 19 at Rocklin. A midseason home clash with rival Oak Ridge on October 3 and a road test against Del Oro October 10 highlight the league campaign. The regular season closes with three straight home games against Whitney, Jesuit, and Granite Bay.
It’s a demanding schedule that will test every ounce of the Bulldogs’ depth and resolve. But with the tradition Folsom has built, expectations remain sky-high that the program will again be in contention for a section title and state championship berth.
When the cameras turn on this weekend, the storyline writes itself: two powerhouse programs, two proud communities, and a wager between superintendents that blends school pride with a touch of humor. For the student-athletes, the moment offers a chance to shine under the brightest lights high school football can offer. For the fans, it’s a reminder that in Northern California, few rivalries burn brighter than Folsom vs. Grant.
The Bulldogs and Pacers take the field Saturday night at 7:30 p.m., with ESPN carrying the action to a national audience.
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