Reader poll: Best football game this fall

Some games just stick with you.

I keep thinking back to Friday night when I watched the sports version of a fireworks display: Snohomish’s 49-48 football victory against Lake Stevens.

It was one of those intense-until-the-end, unforgettable battles. Offense obviously ruled. Check out the link above for details about the many outstanding individual performances. Overall, Snohomish and Lake Stevens combined for 952 yards, seven rushing touchdowns and six passing TDs.

Other elements added to the intrigue: Snohomish needed a victory to ensure it would make the playoffs and it was senior night for the Panthers. From Lake Stevens’ perspective, a win would have improved its playoff seed but the Vikings struggled on defense without their top two season-leading tacklers.

All of this makes me think about the best local football games I’ve either covered or read about this season. What makes a game great? Here are factors I consider: back-and-forth scoring, momentum-changing plays, well-matched teams (If they have vastly different strengths, it’s a bonus), huge crowd, special circumstances (homecoming, senior night, traditional rivalry, etc.).

With all that in mind, it’s time for you to tell me which area gridiron clash has been unforgettable so far in 2008. If you don’t see your favorite in the list, please add it on the Comments section and explain your choice.