In its second year as part of the AHSAA, the Tuscaloosa Academy Knights football team finds itself in the Class 2A state championship game.

The team had a hot start to the season winning its first seven games. The Knights dropped two of their last three and finished the season at 8-2, which provided some doubt regarding their playoff success.

Tuscaloosa Academy found a way to bounce back, winning its first two playoff games over North Sand Mountain and Susan Moore by a combined margin of 76-15. The team then upset Pisgah, who entered the playoffs ranked second in Class 2A, according to the ASWA. Then came the revenge win over Sulligent who beat the Knights in the regular season. The Knights won the rematch 20-14 to punch its ticket to the championship.

Awaiting the Knights in the title game is the Reeltown High School Rebels. Last season, the Rebels were runner-ups in Class 2A, and are certainly eager to finish the job this time.

Tuscaloosa Academy starting quarterback Preston Lancaster has been battling a left knee injury for most of the season, causing him to miss three games during the regular season.

"I definitely feel it, but... I got to play either way," Lancaster said about his availability for the championship.

The senior was taking his regular workload in Monday's practice.

Knights coach Josh Wright is excited to be able to get back to work with big expectations following the holiday.

"It feels great, a little cold, but we're just thankful to be here right now, thankful to still be practicing," Wright said. "First time we get to practice in December, so what a blessing that is."

The Knights take on the Reeltown Rebels Friday at 3 P.M. at Protective Stadium in Birmingham. The game will be televised on the Alabama Public Television Network, as well as the NFHS Network.