TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - District games. Rivalry games. They're just better when they go together. On Friday night, Lincoln hosts Leon is a Class 7A District 1 rivalry match-up, and the Leon Lions are looking to make the race for a District title a little more interesting with a win.
A Lincoln win Friday would give the Trojans their 18th straight District Championship, while a Leon win could mean another playoff to decide who punches their ticket to the postseason.
Trojan head coach Yusuf Shakir expects Leon's best Friday night, and he's anticipating a tough Leon defense they'll have to fight through.
"We're just trying to focus on going 1-0 this week, try to do the best we can this year, because this is the only year we can control," he said of staying focused on the match-up. "We can't control the past year. Past success can't determine future success, but it sure does help you with when you have success from the past to help you with your tradition, and your pride in your program. We just have to go out and play disciplined, fundamental football and not try to do to much and play outside of ourselves."
The Lions are also focused on Friday night, and to get a win, head coach Tim Cokely said his team needs to take care of the football, but in a big rivalry game like this, anything can happen at any time.
"When I was a young head coach, I used to deny all that," he laughed. "One day at a time, one practice at a time, but the truth is, this is why kids play. This is why kids commit their summers, this is why they commit their off seasons, so they can play in all of their fans and all their friends at Gene Cox Stadium. We don't pretend with our guys. I learned a long time ago not to pretend with them. It's a big game, and it means more than other games."
Friday's game is slated for 7:00 at Gene Cox Stadium in Tallahassee.
