Red Level knows McKenzie.

McKenzie knows Red Level.

An old rivalry will rear its head tonight as RLHS pays a visit to MHS for some Class 1A, Region 2 play at Williams-Vickery Field.

“They’ve got a real quality club,” RLHS head football coach David Godwin said about MHS, who is undefeated and ranked seventh. “They’re a spread team and run some option out of it with some jet sweep to some of their inside guys.”

Godwin said McKenzie throws the ball about as good as any 1A team he’s seen.

“They’re real similar to Brantley, but not quite as big,” he said. “This is going to be more of a speed challenge Friday night.”

RLHS is coming off a 53-0 win over J.F. Shields last week for its first victory in 30 games.

Godwin said the kids have practiced well this week.

“We put last Friday behind us just like we do every week,” he said. “I think the focus has been sharp. We’re relatively injury free. Nobody has been banged up. We’ve had a really energetic week of practice. We’re excited about going to McKenzie.”

McKenzie is the closest proximity to RLHS than any other school it plays this season.

The rivalry dates back all the way to 1930, according to the Alabama High School Football Historical Society’s website.

“It’s what these guys look forward to,” Godwin said about the players playing against friends. “They see these kids more than anybody else. I fully expect us to go up there and play well.”

Kick off is at 7 tonight.