WILLOW WOOD — Just like last season, the Symmes Valley Vikings and Oak Hill Oaks are meeting in a game to determine first place in the Southern Ohio Conference Division I standings.

Last year, the Oaks won 47-0 and went on to win the league title. Vikings’ coach Rusty Webb sees the same scenario.

“Whoever wins this one has the inside track. Oak Hill is the champ until someone beats them,” said Webb.

There is a difference this time, though. The Vikings come into the game unbeaten at 7-0 overall and 2-0 in the SOC while Oak Hill is 6-1 and 2-0. Last year, the Oaks were unbeaten and the Vikings were 6-1.

But records won’t determine which team is the best. Talent will and Webb is hoping that his team’s depth this year will play a factor and narrow the gap between the teams.

“We’re hoping our depth will help us. We play more kids than they do, but they have a very talented team. Our kids are looking forward to the challenge. When you play high school football, these are the kind of games you look forward to playing in,” said Webb.

The Oaks’ balanced attack has quarterback Jesse Slone, running back Westen Hale and slotback Joey Maynard. But the real key to the game could be up front with tackles Chris Fairchild (6-2, 280) and Drew Cannon (6-3, 255).

“They have a very balanced attack. You can’t sit on the pass and you can’t sit on the run. If you do, they’ll do the other and they’ll do it well,” said Webb. “I think whoever controls the line of scrimmage on either side of the ball is going to have an advantage.”

Webb said his team remembers last year’s lopsided loss and doesn’t want a repeat performance. He said the Vikings still have a good running game but their ability to pass this season has been the difference.

“They played well in our game last year and we did not play well. We were still trying to find ourselves as a team. Our kids are a year older and they remember that,” said Webb.

“Oak Hill is the most balanced team we’ve seen. They will attack all areas of the field running and throwing. But we have more balance now. In years past teams have been able to load up the line of scrimmage. They can shut us down. Team have tried this year and we’ve been able to throw the ball and make them pay.”

The game carries added important in the postseason computer ratings. Symmes Valley is currently fifth in Region 23 of Division VI while Oak Hill is fourth in Region 19 of Division V. A win could be the key to a home playoff game.

“There’s a lot of points on the line for both teams. The winner has a very good shot at hosting a playoff game. The loser will have to do some work,” said Webb.

The game will be a “Touchdown for the Cure” to benefit the Susan G Komen Fund to find a cure for breast cancer.

Fans are asked to wear pink and special T-shirts are on sale at Symmes Valley High School. Shirts are $10 for sizes small to XL, $12 for XXL and $13 for XXXL.