For the first time since 2020, the Francis Howell North Knights are coming to the Nest. This time it’s win or go home as the Eagles and Nights battle in the first round of the postseason on Oct. 27 at 7 p.m. 

After the records of the previous year, the Eagles were thrilled to make it this far and host a playoff game for the first time since they won a district title in 2019, defeating Hannibal, 23-8.

“Since it’s our first district home game in a long time, it’ll be more hyped and more full than it usually is,” junior Jack Ryan said.

The Eagles have a winning record of 6-3 with a high-scoring offense that averages 28.5 points per game but a sometimes inconsistent defense.

The Knights on the other hand have a 3-6 record.

“Their offense is built around misdirection and fast-hitting run plays, and their offensive line plays really well together,” assistant coach Bradley Smith said about the Knights. “Their defense is built around stopping the run, and their defensive line is very skilled. They will be a tough, physical opponent and I expect a lot of hitting Friday night.”

The two teams have fought four common opponents: North Point Grizzlies, Timberland Wolves, Fort Zumwalt South Bulldogs, and Troy Trojans. When playing the Grizzlies, Wolves, and Bulldogs the Eagles reigned victorious, while the Knights fell defeated. 

“They’re a good team and we just have to give 110% and play a hard game and not play their game, and if we do that, we will come out out with a win,” Ryan said.

There is no doubt that the Eagles have fought long and hard to get here, and junior quarterback Cody McMullen is “expecting to go to the district finals, and to play [most likely] St. Dominic, and hopefully win.”