If you do not reside in the Bay Area, or not from those parts, the Battle of the Bay is unfamiliar. The Oakland Raiders and San Francisco 49ers’ fanbases share a mutual and strong dislike. In 2018, the Raiders and 49ers renew hostilities on the field. In a game that will mark the final Battle of the Bay, each fangroup wants to hold one final victory. Imagine the opportunity of lording over another local team the fact that your favorite franchise beat them in the regular season. FPC writers Anthony Zaragoza, Ray Aspuria, and Chris Simmons reflect upon this rivalry.
Zaragoza
Everything. Some will say because of the move to Santa Clara, the “Battle of the Bay” is no longer a thing. That both teams are not technically in the Bay area in 2018. Nevertheless, I know personally, the rivalry between Raider and 49er fans is still there, burning a fire in each fan base. Especially with both teams expecting to compete this upcoming season. Week 9 cannot come soon enough.
Aspuria
It is losing its significance. While fans of both teams remain passionate, the move to Santa Clara (The Land of Google) and the impending move to Las Vegas make the battle anticlimactic.
Simmons
The Battle of the Bay means much more to people around 16 years old or older. There are already a generation of current Raider fans who are turning to other teams. The Niners long held a larger regional pull than the Raiders. They relied on Al Davis’ goal of becoming a global brand. That was part of his move to Los Angeles in the 80’s, but of course being unable to secure a stadium there, he returned to Oakland. There will always be a nostalgia regarding the two teams and whenever they play there will be old heads who remember. However, already that memory is fading and in a few decades will only matter when they meet every few years.
In reality, this game means different things to many. While some dismiss this contest as an ordinary game, others really want the victory. What better joy than the Raiders ending this rivalry with a resounding victory?
