Ferris State University and Grand Valley State University are intense rivals on the football field, but leaders from both schools are teaming up to ask fans to remember to be respectful to each other and enjoy the game this Saturday.
The back-to-back National Champion Bulldogs square off against Grand Valley’s Lakers in the Anchor-Bone Classic at 3 p.m. at Lubbers Stadium in Allendale. The powerhouse programs both have 4-1 records, are ranked in the national top 10, and have dominated most opponents.
With passions riding high, university leaders came together to share mutual message of respect with students and fans. Ferris State President Bill Pink and GVSU President Philomena V. Mantella joined forces to film a video with mascots Brutus and Louie the Laker, reminding everyone to keep the rivalry fun and treat other fans with respect.
The video, created with staff from both universities, shows the presidents instructing the mascots to get to know each other better. The two become friends after visiting the Ferris State campus in Big Rapids and the GVSU campus in Allendale, palling around and meeting students.
“The message is delivered playfully, but it’s also serious,” Pink said. “A rivalry can be intense without being heated. We want everyone to cheer loudly and have a great time supporting their university. But once the game ends, we all shake hands and continue to do our work in changing the lives of students.”
The video was shared on Ferris State and GVSU social media platforms and will be aired at the game on the scoreboard on Saturday.
“GVSU is looking forward to hosting another thrilling game between these two elite programs,” said Philomena V. Mantella, GVSU President. “Both schools have a passionate fan base and we’re asking both Lakers and Bulldogs to create an energetic and respectful atmosphere worthy of such a great rivalry.”
The game is sold out but will be aired on WXSP-TV and online.
Ferris State’s only defeat came on the road against Division I University of Montana. The Bulldogs, ranked No. 1 in the latest AFCA DII Coaches Poll, responded by setting a Ferris State football record, scoring 78 points against Northern Michigan University.
GVSU’s one loss came against the Colorado School of Mines in a close game. The Lakers, ranked No. 7 in the poll, dominated in most of their games, outscoring opponents 248-108.
GVSU holds a 30-23-1 all-time series' advantage entering Saturday's showdown between the two schools with FSU having won 11 of the past 14 overall.