By TYLER HENRY
Lead Sportswriter - Salina Post
The Battle of Dickinson County is a matchup that has been played every single year for more than a century, yet in all that time, the annual contest between Abilene and Chapman has never lost its juice.
This week should be no different as the Irish host the Cowboys for the 132nd all-time meeting between two schools, a stone's throw from one another.
In 2025, the pressure is on the Cowboys, who have won the last three matchups handily, and who have an opportunity to graduate another class that could potentially go all four years without a loss to Chapman, a feat last achieved by the Irish class of 2022.
Both schools suffered close defeats in defensive duels a week ago, and each will be in search of their first victory, and a chance to even the ledger at .500 here tonight.
Abilene managed to hold a tough Clay Center squad to a scoreless halftime tie before the Tigers pulled away for a 14-7 victory last week.
Chapman did the same to Smith Center before the Redmen turned on the heat in the second half, winning 16-6.
Last year, the Cowboys won this game by a wide margin in a 42-8 rout in which quarterback Taygen Funston struck for four touchdowns.
Funston will likely play a big role again tonight in both the run, and pass game, and will be a huge x-factor unless the Chapman defense can find a way to slow him down.
On Chapmanās offensive end, success will come in the run game, especially if a re-worked offensive line can carve a path for backs like Audiel Becker and Andrew Scott to operate.
Chapman High School serves as the host site for this yearās showdown, with a 7:00 kickoff.
You can stream this game live or on demand with full video and broadcast commentary. Our pregame coverage will begin at 6:40.