WILLOW WOOD - It was called a one-horse race from the start. Now, the Symmes Valley Vikings will be attempting to saddle up.

Before the season, the Lucasville Valley Indians were picked as an easy favorite to snap the Vikings 3-year hold on the title. But Friday night the Vikings will try to make a run at keeping the trophy when the two teams collide.

Symmes Valley is 4-2 and Valley 5-1. Both teams are 2-0 in the SOC.

Despite being heavy underdogs, Vikings coach Rusty Webb said his team will not back down from the challenge.

&#8221Our kids are looking forward to the challenge of playing Valley. We know they're good, we know they're the favorite, but we've had this position the past three years. Hopefully, we'll play well,“ Webb said.

Valley has a loaded backfield that includes quarterback Chuck Gregory (5-9, 160), fullback Ryan Turner (5-11, 220) and running back Travis Jones (5-8, 160), David Myers (5-11, 185) and speedy Craig Williams (5-9, 170).

&#8221Williams is their breakaway kid. He can take it all the way at any time. They have four quality running backs plus their quarterback,“ Webb said.

&#8221(Gregory) is much improved. He does a nice job running the offense and when he passes, he doesn't force the ball. And he can hurt you with his legs.“

Webb said the Indians offensive line has good size and is the key to the running game.

&#8221They have good backs, but they get outstanding blocking from the offensive line,“ Webb said.

But the Indians offense isn't the only concern for Webb. The Vikings must try and crack the 4-4 alignment that has limited opponents to just 58 points, 27 coming in a loss to Wheelersburg.

&#8221They're pretty good. They're big, fast, strong and aggressive. They are very sound on defense and they're disciplined,“ Webb said.

&#8221Their front four is very good. They do a good job of controlling the line of scrimmage. Their linebackers aren't big, but they run to the ball well. The secondary is quick and fast. It's hard to beat them deep.“

Webb said the Vikings hopes of upsetting the Indians lies in the interior line on both sides of the ball.

&#8221We need to find a way to control the line of scrimmage and control the clock. When we're on defense, we have to eliminate the big play. We have to play good, sound, fundamental defense,“ Webb said.