Why this game is special: These schools, located a few miles part on the Garden State Parkway, have met ever since Barnegat fielded its first varsity team in 2006. This is their first Thanksgiving meeting. Their games always have been spirited contests. The last two meetings were decided in overtime.
Barnegat update: The Bengals qualified for the South Jersey Group II playoffs. They beat Lower Cape May Regional 29-28 in the quarterfinals but lost to undefeated West Deptford 56-7 in last Friday's semifinals. Barnegat quarterback Nick SanGiacomo has thrown for 20 touchdowns and more than 2,000 yards.
Pinelands update: The Wildcats have scored more than 40 points four times this season. Pinelands running back Matt McLain is in the midst of standout season with 276 carries for 2,214 yards and 22 touchdowns. Pinelands is seeking its first winning season since a 6-5 record in 2004.
Michael McGarry
When: 10 a.m. today
The series: The series is tied at 2-2
