At 6-0, 6th-ranked Princeville is having a ball. And its usually at the expense of their opponent’s defense.

"I haven’t seen a team here in 20 years play this kind of defense," says head coach Rollin Arnett. "The first guy hits them hard, the second guy might tattoo him. The third guy is going for the ball and the fourth guy is definitely going for the ball."

The Princeville defense already has 19 takeaways, 12 more than their opponents – including six in one game. Senior defensive back Justin Garcia says they’ve got it down to a science.

"We work on stripping the ball and gang tackling. Have someone hold them up for you and strip it, tomahawk it."

"It’s awesome," says senior linebacker Eddie Venegas. "It really gives your defense and your whole team a sense of, ‘We’re in this game and we’re in it to win it."

A year ago Princeville failed to make the playoffs. But if they can beat rival Stark County Friday the Princes have a shot at finishing the regular-season 9-0.

Arnett knows what a great accomplishment that would be for this group.

"Last year we went 5-and-4 and we lost 3 games by a total of 9 points. We were just so close last year. We were a young group and they really took it hard when we didn’t make the playoffs. They cam back and worked even harder. I’ve worked this group harder out on the field than any group I’ve ever had and not one complaint. They’ve got the hearts of champions and I’m really proud of the way they act and how they conduct themselves."