Heritage Christian vs. Cardinal Ritter

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - A battle between new 2A rivals kicks off My-INDY TV’s 2012 High School Football coverage when Heritage Christian takes on Cardinal Ritter live from Lucas Oil Stadium in the Peyback Classic.

The Ritter Raiders are a traditional 2A powerhouse, but have been stopped in the sectional semi-finals each of the past two years. Since Ty Hunt took over the coaching duties in 2006, the Raiders’ worst season record was 10-4 in 2007 (which ended in a semi-state loss to Rockville). 66-13 is very impressive and with the return of star quarterback Jake Purichia and nine starters on both sides of the ball, another winning season should be on the horizon.

Ron Qualls and the Heritage Christian Eagles also have a pretty good recent history, 53-29 in the same span, with their worst season coming last year at 6-5. In 2011, QB Matt Hunt finished 5th in the state in passing yards (2,332 yards & 27 TDs). He and his favorite receiver Anthony Warrum are both returning and will be looking to improve on that 6-5 record.

Ritter has defeated Heritage Christian nine of the last 10 meetings, including the Eagles only loss in their 2008 State Championship season. Can the Eagles get over the hump in this rivalry, or will the Raiders continue with their recent domination?