The 78th Turkey Tussle between John Muir High School and Pasadena High School kicks off Friday at 7 p.m. at the Rose Bowl, continuing a citywide tradition that has shaped generations of local families since 1947.
The annual football rivalry, hosted by Pasadena Unified School District, pits the Mustangs against the Bulldogs in a contest for the Victory Bell, the official trophy since 1955. According to district officials and alumni, the event remains a cornerstone of Pasadena’s public school identity.
“This game connects generations,” PUSD Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Blanco has said. “It reminds me of some college games I’ve attended — the energy, the pride, the history.”
John Muir enters the matchup undefeated in Pacific League play at 7-0-1, while Pasadena High trails at 5-1, according to MaxPreps standings.
The rivalry’s historical balance has shifted in recent years. Muir leads the all-time series 46-20-2, per the Great American Rivalry Series. Pasadena’s 2022 win ended an 18-year drought, but Muir reclaimed the Bell with dominant victories in 2023 and 2024.
Beyond football, the game reflects broader changes in Pasadena’s school landscape. Muir is now the city’s largest high school, a reversal credited to its early college curriculum.
Alumni events and homecoming celebrations are scheduled around the game.
For one night, Pasadena’s public school community gathers under the lights — and the Bell waits at midfield.
Tickets are available at:
- PHS General Admission: https://hov.to/5122ee06
- PHS Students: https://hov.to/ea35d0bf
- Muir General Admission: https://hov.to/2d40808c
- Muir Students: https://hov.to/cdb2709d
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