Nashville Christian football has been as hot as ever this year. After making the semifinals for three straight years, the Eagles look to make their first ever State Championship game. Through 5 games already, the odds look good in favor of Nashville Christian. Starting 5-0, the Eagles are facing a tough opponent in Pope John Paul II this Friday, September 25. “They are strong and very physical,” said Junior George Walker following Thursday’s walkthrough.

Coming off a big win against Region rival Jo Byrns, NCS is coming into this game with momentum in their side. Coach Brothers is going back to JPII to face the school that he formerly called home. Though it is their Homecoming, Coach Brothers is looking to spoil some alumni’s first game back. Even after all this talk of “recruiting” at NCS, JPII is allowed to recruit and give financial aid to those who qualify.

“This is a lose-lose situation for them. If they win, it is expected. If they lose, then they will have just lost to a small 1A school who can’t recruit,” said sophomore Brant Lawless.

Coming into this game, NCS has been facing criticism of not being good sports on the field. However, this was all taken care of as Coach Brothers discussed with the team how they would handle themselves on the field. We’ll see if the message stuck with the players coming into this game.

“Coach told us what he expects, and he will accept nothing less than the best,” said junior Noah Schurman following Monday’s practice.

This game is a big one for both teams. We’ll find out how the Eagles will respond following a big win last Friday night.