COAL GROVE — There are a lot of things that make the Minford Falcons at Coal Grove Hornets game Friday important.

But Hornets’ coach Dave Lucas knows which one is the most important.

“Every game you play is important, but this game is the most important because it’s the game we’re playing this week,” said Lucas.

Of course, there are other things that make this game not only important and but carry a lot of impact in other areas.

Minford has won four straight meetings against Coal Grove including 13-0 last year, but all four games have been close. This one doesn’t figure to be any different.

The Hornets, ranked ninth in the first Associated Press Division V poll, are 3-0 as are the Falcons. The winner can take a big step towards qualifying for the postseason playoffs.

“We don’t approach this game any different. We tell our kids we want to be consistent and try to do the things well. We want to run our offense and execute,” said Lucas.

Coal Grove has outscored its opponents 138 to 70. Minford has scored 126 while allowing 26.

Lucas said the Falcons are similar to previous teams the Hornets have faced.

“They’re pretty much the same. They’ve haven’t change. They lost a few linemen and backs, but they have some kids returning,” said Lucas.

“Their quarterback is a pretty good runner. He’s capable of throwing the ball.”

Aaron Oesch (6-2, 200) is back for his third season as the Falcons’ quarterback, but running back Matt Slone has been the main weapon to date. The 5-foot-11, 200-pound Slone has carried 28 times for 399 yards including a 211-yard game in a 27-20 win over Wellston.

“Every team we’ve played has had one good running back. Lucasville had two nice running backs. Seeing a good running back is something we’ve seen. I just hope we’re ready for them,” said Lucas.

“They were pretty good last year. I think the team that minimizes its mistakes will win.”