A touchdown in the last 40 seconds. A sudden overtime win. A 37 yard extra point to win the game 20-19. Thrilling victories in intense games that have defined the football season.

This has taken the team through the season with a record of 6-3 and a TCAL record of 2-2. This has led the varsity team to playoffs for the third year in a row.

In each game there have been key plays and players that have led the team to their success. But what has brought them to this point?

Prior to stepping out onto the field and into game mode, players prepare themselves for what’s to come. One way is by watching an inspirational video called “I am a Champion” and listening to head coach Don Norton give a speech.

“I stress playing hard but stopping when the whistle blows,” Norton said. Players take the advice given to them out to the field.

“‘Who are we? We are champions,’” said senior Marcus Barnett-Armstrong, quoting the video. “It helps motivate us.”

Other players, like seniors Brian Wood and Treyvon Manning, pray before leaving the locker room.

Once on the field, no matter who the opponent is, Wood said when he sees the other team he feels prepared. Manning feels ready when he steps under the lights and into the atmosphere of the crowd and cheerleaders.

Players say that their success starts with what Manning believes is an “outstanding” defense.

Junior Deante Chambliss agrees. “We have a strong defense,” he said. “Defense is what keeps us in the game.”

He says that the defensive line “stops big plays that the other team’s offense could make,” which gives the offense the opportunity to score.

Manning said that homecoming was a good offensive game which led to their 55-21 victory over the Tokay Tigers.

“Throwing passes and running plays work,” Chambliss said. “Ryan and Trey are key playmakers on offense as receivers.”    

“We have confidence because we have experience going into playoffs this year,” Wood said. “I feel good because it’s our third year.”

The team had hopes to gain home-field advantage for the first round playoff game which is no longer possible after their 23-21 loss to the West Wolfpack on Oct. 28.

Some seniors say that because this is their last year they have something to prove to others. Although Wood feels confident about the team, he’s “worried a little bit because it’s (his) senior year.”

The team has also been dealing with injuries throughout the season, many of which have happened in recent games. This has given some players more time out on the field.

“St. Mary’s game, a lot of people stepped up that don’t have a lot of playing time because a lot of people were hurt,” Manning said.

Despite these injuries Norton says that the off season program has kept the amount small. “Because of the weights program, injuries haven’t been a severe,” he said.

Although they have already made playoffs, Manning treats every game the same. “I know we’re going … but it’s not playoffs yet.”