The Old Shoe returns to Troy (8-1) as they welcome Canton (4-5) to renew their rivalry tonight at 7 p.m. before both teams head to district play.

"The Old Shoe Classic brings both communities out," said Troy coach Jim Smith. "There is always a good crowd and atmosphere. Few rival games locally are as balanced as far as wins and losses than the old shoe game. We hold a lot of respect for coach Sechrist and his staff. He does things the right way. Their players will be prepared and motivated as always. They are aggressive defensively and very crafty offensively. Comparing records will get you beat. We will need to be the best version of ourselves because they will be."

The Trojans are going for their ninth straight win of the season so Sechrist knows it will be an uphill challenge.

"Troy is a very tough, physical football team," he said. "They are well-coached and have had another successful season. We have to win the battle at the line of scrimmage. It is going to take disciplined assignment football and everyone getting to the ball to slow them down."

Despite coming in off a loss the Warriors are motivated to get back the Old Shoe.

"The players are very excited," said Sechrist. "The Old Shoe is a special game for our community and our program, and the team is looking forward to the challenge."

KEYS TO THE GAME

Canton - Control the line of scrimmage. Coach Sechrist said it, they have to win up front with Troy or else it'll be a long night for the Warriors.

Troy - Get to the QB. Canton has a lot of athletes around the field, and they like to pass to spread it around so the Trojans will have to get them at the point of attack.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Marcus Solomon, Canton, LB - Look for the backer to have a busy night as he racks up more tackles to this season's total.

Reed Palmer, Troy, DE - Palmer is just one of several Troy pass rushers who'll need to have a big game for the Trojans.