BUZZARDS BAY — Chants of “Scoop” drifted across the practice fields at Bridgewater State’s Swenson Field and Mass. Maritime’s Clean Harbors Stadium this week as the Bears and Buccaneers, respectively, put in final preparations for today’s 35th annual Cranberry Bowl game.

“No one realized that it would become a rallying cry,’’ said Admiral Rick Gurnon, the Mass. Maritime Academy president. “A 35-year tradition, and an amazing coming together of family, friends, and for one day, an opponent, and no one recognized that it would become so special.’’

Bridgewater (5-4, 4-3 MASCAC) leads the series, 25-8-1, including wins in 23 of the last 25. Mass. Maritime (5-4, 3-4) last claimed the Scoop in 2010.

Today’s matchup features a pair of explosive offenses. The Bears are led by senior quarterback and two-time Cranberry Bowl MVP Mike McCarthy, and stellar receiver Matt Green (school-record 1,134 yards on 57 catches and 15 TDs). The Bucs counter with ace quarterback Mike Stanton of Quincy, who holds MMA’s all-time marks for pass yardage in a game (420), season (2,449), and career (7,313), and versatile senior running back Stefan Gustafson.

“It’s a special game no matter what,’’ said Buccaneers coach Jeremy Cameron. “Our players have tremendous respect for Bridgewater State. They’ve been consistent winners forever. They are well-coached and don’t have any holes on any side (of the ball).’’