‘Isn’t just another Friday night’: Marysville-Lindhurst return to gridiron for first time in five seasons
Much has transpired in the Mid-Valley since the last time Marysville squared off against Lindhurst in the Battle of the Bell showcase in Yuba County. MHS is on its fourth head coach since the 50-0 win over Lindhurst in 2021 at Dean Miller Stadium on the campus of Lindhurst in Olivehurst. This year’s leader is Bert Esposito, a championship-caliber coach from the CIF Southern Section who took ...
Marysville-Lindhurst, after a five-season hiatus, is set to return to gridiron action for a much-anticipated matchup. The Mid-Valley has seen many changes since the last Battle of the Bell showdown, with MHS having four different head coaches since their 50-0 victory over Lindhurst in 2021. Current head coach Bert Esposito, a CIF Southern Section champion, emphasized the emotional significance of the rivalry.
Esposito noted that the 2026 Marysville team is adapting well to the new coach after a recent 28-21 loss at Rio Linda.
Meanwhile, Lindhurst, despite their opening loss to Woodland, is aiming to advance in the inaugural Sac-Joaquin Bowl series. Coach Troy Spangler highlighted the importance of rivalries, stating that they foster a sense of identity and pride, drawing communities, schools, and student-athletes together. Lindhurst, which has not defeated Marysville since 2009, aims to change that history tonight.
Lindhurst's offense, led by Chan Hicks and quarterbacks Angel Gonzalez and Isac Ortiz, has been impressive, rushing for over 230 yards last against Woodland.
Lindhurst faces several key injuries and is a young, undersized team, but they understand the challenge ahead. They are focused on preparation, effort, and discipline as they prepare for the Bell matchup. On the other side, Sutter (1-0), the reigning 4AA NorCal champion and state runner-up, travels to Nevada to face Douglas (NV) in a 7 p.m. game. Sutter, led by Losi Asiata who rushed for 280 yards and four scores, sits 23rd in the Sac-Joaquin poll and No. 2 behind Sonora in D-V.
Lastly, Yuba City (1-0), now classified as D-IV after division realignment, takes on Christian Brothers (0-1) at Honker Stadium. The Honkers will face a tougher upper division team, having previously defeated Christian Brothers in the 2019 postseason 54-0. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
