Football Game Preview: Shelby Tigers vs. Manistee Mariners

Shelby hasn't had much luck against Manistee recently, but that could start to change on Friday. The Tigers will be playing in front of their home fans against the Mariners at 7:00 p.m. Manistee took a loss in their last contest and will be looking to turn the tables on Shelby, who comes in off a win.

On Friday, everything came up roses for Shelby against Muskegon Catholic Central as the squad secured a 44-8 victory. Considering the Tigers have won three matchups by more than 35 points this season, Friday's blowout was nothing new.

Shelby's win was the result of several impressive offensive performances. One of the most notable came from Isaac Garcia, who rushed for 93 yards and one TD, and also threw for 134 yards and a pair of touchdowns on only 11 passes. Garcia really tore up the turf during one magnificent 86-yard run. Jaylin Henderson was another key player, gaining 109 total yards and three touchdowns.

They were just one part of a punishing run game: Shelby was unstoppable on the ground and finished the game with 306 rushing yards. That's the most rushing yards they've managed all season.

The home team had come away the winner the last four times Manistee and Ludington had met, but sadly for the fans who attended this one that wasn't the case. The Mariners were beaten by the Orioles 48-6 on Friday. The Mariners were in a tough position after the first half, with the score already sitting at 34-6.

Shelby is on a roll lately: they've won three of their last four games. That's provided a nice bump to their 4-2 record this season. As for Manistee, their defeat dropped their record down to 2-4.

Shelby took a serious blow against Manistee when the teams last played back in October of 2024, falling 62-14. Will the Tigers have more luck at home instead of on the road? Check MaxPreps after the match for a full breakdown of the game, commentary, and other football content.