The hottest ticket in high school football is in Evanston, Illinois.

That is the site of the football rivalry matchup between New Trier High School (Winnetka, IL) and Evanston (IL) that nearly sold out a college football stadium at Northwestern's new Ryan Field. It will mark just the third game ever played at the $862 million stadium — the most expensive college football stadium.

A crowd of approximately 25,000 fans is expected at the game on Friday, Oct. 16, after selling out the original ticket allotment of nearly 20,000 on Monday, Oct. 12.

For reference, Northwestern sold out its opener against Penn State on Friday, Oct. 2, with an announced crowd of 35,000 fans.

If you can't make it to Evanston on Friday evening, here's everything you need to know about both teams and how you can watch the showdown from home.

When is New Trier vs. Evanston high school football game?

The matchup between New Trier and Evanston kicks off on Friday, Oct. 16, 2026.

What time does New Trier vs. Evanston high school football game start?

The game is slated to begin at 7:00 p.m. CT.

Watch New Trier vs. Evanston high school football game live

New Trier and Evanston fans can watch the game live on the NFHS Network.

Where is New Trier vs. Evanston being played?

The rivalry matchup between New Trier and Evanston is set to be played at the new Ryan Field in Evanston, Illinois. Ryan Field — the home of the NCAA's Northwestern — opened on Oct. 2, when the Wildcats hosted Penn State to open the brand-new $862 million stadium.

New Trier football: What to know

• New Trier defeated Evanston 35-6 last season on Oct. 11, 2025, behind a four-touchdown performance from quarterback Jackie Ryder. Ryder is a Purdue commit.

• The Trevians enter the matchup on a four-game winning streak, which includes a 35-28 win over Glenbrook South last week.

• The 7-1 start for New Trier is the best start for the program since 2015. The Trevians won their season finale over Niles West and finished the season 10-2 following a loss to Homewood-Flossmoor in the 8A quarterfinals.

Evanston football: What to know

• Evanston suffered a 51–13 loss to Maine South last week. The loss snapped a two-game winning streak for the Wildkits and dropped them to 0-2 in Central Suburban - South Conference play.

• Despite the loss last season to rival New Trier, running back Sean Hopson enjoyed a strong individual performance with 134 rushing yards for Evanston.

• The Wildkits hold an all-time series advantage over the Trevians, 57–54–6.