Chattanooga, Tennessee, October 4, 2025
News Summary
In a thrilling contest that extended the legacy of the Cross-River Rivalry, Baylor School edged out McCallie School with a narrow score of 38-35. The match showcased fierce competition, heightened by both teams’ national rankings. Baylor continued its undefeated streak while McCallie sought revenge for last year’s result. Strong fan engagement and community traditions added to the atmosphere, making this game a significant chapter in their storied rivalry.
Chattanooga, Tennessee – Baylor Outlasts McCallie in Cross-River Rivalry Showdown
The fierce Cross-River Rivalry between Baylor School and McCallie School reached new heights last night as Baylor triumphed over McCallie with a score of 38-35. This match drew significant attention not only for its competitive spirit but also for being part of the first national high school football rankings for both teams, placing Baylor at number 23 and McCallie at number 25.
The intense rivalry has deep roots, dating back over a century. Notably, the competition was briefly paused from 1941 to 1970 due to the fiercely competitive nature of the games. In recent years, the matchups have seen a notable trend, with five of the last six games decided by a single score, underscoring the razor-thin margins that often define this historic rivalry.
Before the game, both schools engaged their communities with hype videos celebrating their pride and traditions. McCallie’s video showcased standout players and emphasized the importance of a legacy, particularly highlighting athlete Tia Kemp’s views on continuing the school’s tradition of excellence. Baylor countered with its own hype video that further fueled the competitive atmosphere.
This year’s matchup was especially significant as it marked Baylor’s continued undefeated streak this season, while McCallie came into the game looking to avenge last year’s victory. With Baylor ranked number 1 and McCallie at number 2 in Tennessee, the stakes were high for both teams. Kickoff was set for 7:45 PM at Spears Stadium, with coverage starting at 7:30 PM on CW Chattanooga and streamed live on local platforms.
The excitement preceding the game saw a strong presence from the fans, with Baylor supporters expressing confidence in their team’s ability to secure victory. As the teams took to the field, tensions were palpable, and the engagement from both sidelines was at an all-time high.
Ultimately, Baylor’s ability to withstand pressure and execute key plays in the final moments of the game secured their narrow victory. This thrilling encounter not only reinforced Baylor’s dominance but also intensified the rivalry, as both teams continue to strive for relevance in the national high school football landscape.
Background on the Rivalry
The Cross-River Rivalry has captivated local fans for generations, representing more than just a football game; it symbolizes community pride and athletic tradition. The historic schools of Baylor and McCallie have long been powerhouses in Tennessee high school sports, contributing to their renowned status. The recent national rankings reflect their competitive success and the broader recognition both institutions have received, raising the profile of high school football in the state and nationwide.
Key Features of the Game
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Teams | Baylor vs. McCallie |
| Final Score | 38-35 |
| Location | Spear Stadium, Chattanooga, Tennessee |
| Kickoff Time | 7:45 PM |
| Television Coverage | CW Chattanooga |
| National Rankings | Baylor (#23), McCallie (#25) |
| State Rankings | Baylor (#1), McCallie (#2) |
| Recent Matchup Trend | 5 of last 6 games decided by a single score |
FAQ
What was the final score of the Baylor vs. McCallie game?
The final score was 38-35 in favor of Baylor.
Where was the game played?
The game was played at Spear Stadium in Chattanooga, Tennessee.
What time did the game start?
The game started at 7:45 PM.
How did the teams rank nationally?
Baylor is ranked 23 and McCallie is ranked 25 in national high school football rankings.
What are the state rankings for the teams?
In Tennessee, Baylor is #1 and McCallie is #2.
How has the rivalry’s recent history been?
Recent matchups have been closely contested, with five of the last six games decided by a single score.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Baylor Red Raiders Triumph Over McCallie Blue Tornado
Chattanooga High School Football Teams Shine Over the Weekend
Chattanooga High School Football Scores Recap
University of Tennessee Unveils New Smokey Grey Uniform
Rival Schools Gear Up for Baylor vs. McCallie Baseball Showdown
Chattanooga Lookouts Prepare for Final Season at AT&T Field
Additional Resources
- News Channel 9
- Wikipedia: Baylor School
- Local 3 News
- Google Search: Baylor McCallie rivalry
- Times Free Press
- Encyclopedia Britannica: High school football
- News Channel 9
- Google Scholar: Baylor vs McCallie

Author: STAFF HERE CHATTANOOGA WRITER
The CHATTANOOGA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREChattanooga.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Chattanooga, Hamilton County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Riverbend Festival, Chattanooga Oktoberfest, and Moon River Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Chattanooga, plus leading businesses in manufacturing, insurance, and utilities that power the local economy such as Volkswagen Chattanooga, BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee, and EPB. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.


