The Pascack Valley Football Team will take on River Dell tonight (Oct. 17), at River Dell High School at 6 p.m.

The rivalry between Pascack Valley and River Dell is called the Rumble for the Rail. The two teams face off yearly for a trophy for whoever comes out victorious. Pascack Valley has won their last four matchups against River Dell, dating back to 2022.

Last season, Valley played River Dell twice, once in the regular season and once in the Section 1 Group 3 State Sectional final game where Valley outscored River Dell by a combined score of 73-7 over both games. Valley was able to win their first sectional title in 10 years by defeating River Dell.

Valley is coming fresh off of a bye-week. In their last game, they defeated Paramus 35-7 to close out their last home game of the regular season. Quarterback Michael Colletti (Sr.) completed 9 of 12 passes for 123 yards and threw 2 passing touchdowns. Running back Nick Ocampo (Sr.) had a great game on the ground, rushing for 102 yards and 2 touchdowns. 

Tonight, PV will gain a key player back in Kai Smith. Smith left the game against Union City on Aug. 28 early with a high-ankle sprain, which has kept him out until tonight. Against Union City, Smith tallied 155 rushing yards, 2 rushing touchdowns, 9 total tackles, and an interception in the 42-19 win. PV looks for the dual-threat to help them come out with a win tonight.

River Dell is off to a hot start this season, sitting at 5-2 on the year. River Dell is led by their dual-threat quarterback, Zion Yoon. Last week in their 45-17 win over Teaneck, Yoon passed for 101 yards and a touchdown, while also rushing for 50 yards and 3 rushing touchdowns. 

Valley is looking to stop the elite pass and run game that River Dell has. Currently on a two-game win streak, this game would be a huge victory for Valley. It would allow them to hold on to the Rumble for the Rail trophy, and keep them in the playoff hunt.