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(Alicia Gomez/ Lincoln Lion Tales)

On Thursday, November 24, Lincoln played San Jose High School in the annual Thanksgiving Day football game for a chance to take home the coveted Big Bone. Lincoln’s hot streak had set a high bar for the varsity players tasked with defending the title—one that had not been lost to San Jose High in 18 years.

At 11am, the game began. Soon after, Lincoln became the first to score with a touchdown by #12 Aldin Besirevic. By the end of the first quarter, the Lions were leading 14-0 after Besirevic scored again with just two minutes remaining.

During the second quarter, San Jose High School earned their first points with a touchdown in the last 4 minutes. Within the final few moments of the quarter, however, Lincoln scored again, making their lead now 21-7.

The Big Bone halftime show featured songs by Lincoln’s Pep Band, who accompanied the Convertibles and LPC (Lincoln Performance Company) as they danced; this was the very first Big Bone to include LPC. Lincoln’s homecoming court was also introduced during this period.

After this, the game entered its third quarter. Toward the end, #12 scored again, making the Lions’ lead now 28-7. After another touchdown by #24 Robert Najar, Lincoln ended the third quarter with a score of 34 to San Jose High’s 7.

At the start of the final quarter, #18 Thomas Ballin made a touchdown, increasing Lincoln’s lead over San Jose High to 41-7. However, San Jose High made a small comeback, and the Bulldogs were able to score again, ending the game with a score of 41-13. Lincoln’s win came as no surprise to many dedicated fans of the sport.

#11 Henry Taylor stated, “Next year will be a lot more challenging than this year, but if we can do it this year we can do it next year.”

“[It] feels super great,” said senior Adrian Frometa, #52.

While everyone on the team was celebrating the victory, the moment was still bittersweet for a number of senior players who had just played their last Big Bone game.

“Sad I won’t see these guys dresses up in gear again,” said #70, Juan Villagomez.

“[I’m] sad I won’t see my teammates anymore,” said Dyllen Joseph, #33.

“I’m glad we left it all on the field as brothers,” said Eyob Feisa and Robert Najar, #28 and #24 respectively.

The victory is Lincoln’s 19th consecutive win over San Jose High, and would not have been possible without the hard work of so many athletes and supporters. In addition to months of practice and training, teamwork was a vital component in cinching the victory.

“[The] past four years flew by fast,” said quarterback Binyam Beyene, #10. “Cherish every moment you get…the special bond with your teammates starts to become like brotherhood, or a family.”