The Wash Boiler Trophy

Since 1960, Pensacola and Escambia have battled for 'Ye Olde Wash Boiler,' an old metal wash tub representing over six decades of football history.

“The trophy isn't a golden football or silver cup. It's an old metal wash tub, reportedly chosen because the losing team was once required to wash the winner's uniforms.”

Rivalry Streaks Shift

Pensacola won 11 straight meetings from 2002 to 2012. Escambia ended that run with a 35-14 victory in 2013 and now owns a 13-game winning streak.

Emmitt Smith's Historic Loss

During Emmitt Smith's four seasons at Escambia, he lost only four games. Three of those losses came against Pensacola.

“Perhaps the most memorable came in 1986. Escambia entered its game against Pensacola unbeaten and nationally ranked No. 1 after going two seasons without a loss.”

The 1986 Game

In 1986, Escambia led the state in scoring but lost 17-10 to Pensacola when Emmitt Smith broke loose on a punt return.

“Ilano made the tackle. Pensacola held on for the 17-10 victory, ending Escambia's unbeaten run and dealing a major blow to the Gators' hopes of finishing No. 1 nationally.”

Homecoming Stakes

Pensacola will host Escambia on homecoming night, adding extra pressure to a game where both teams enter with little early-season momentum.

Current Records

Escambia is 1-1 after an 8-3 loss to Pine Forest and a 6-3 win over Tate. Pensacola enters the game 1-3.

The Objective

For Pensacola, ending Escambia's 13-game winning streak means bringing the wash boiler home for the first time since 2013.

The Legacy

The rivalry has swung dramatically over six decades, with generations of players coming through both programs since 1960.

The Prize

The old wash boiler remains the prize despite changing records, streaks, and the passage of time.

Friday's Game

On Friday night, Pensacola or Escambia will get to carry the wash boiler home, ending the 13-game streak or extending it.