Troy football returns to the playoffs as they host Hughesville at Mansfield University on Friday.

The Trojans come in on a 9-game winning streak and get to test themselves against an opponent they don't see too often.

"It’s exciting to leave the league play," said Troy coach Jim Smith. "Crossing over to schools we haven’t played or know little about certainly puts you on edge. It keeps you from becoming complacent because that will get you beat. We are really excited to start the post season. It’s win or go home and for the seniors they are starting to understand that reality."

The Spartans started the year 0-4 but have gone 4-2 since, including wins over playoff teams Northwest, Warrior Run, and Loyalsock.

"Hughesville has good size and likes to be physical," Smith said. "Offensively they have a good mix of the spread formations as well as power football formations. We will have to be sound defensively and that starts with our alignments and coverages. We will need to be focused, physical and rally to the ball. Offensively we need to control the clock, limit penalties and turnovers. You can’t get away with big mistakes in the post season."

KEYS TO THE GAME

Hughesville - Keep the offense on the field. Troy's offense has been rolling the second half of the season, and the best way to counter that is to keep them on the sideline.

Troy - Stop the run. Hughesville relies heavy on running the ball, and if forced to throw it could be a long night for the Spartan offense.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Chad Shrawder, Hughesville, RB - Shrawder has 736-yards rushing and six touchdowns, and had a 200-yard rushing game against Warrior Run.

Spencer Martin, Troy, QB - Martin has thrown for over 1,000 yards with a .714 completion percentage with 15 touchdowns and seven interceptions. He's also averaging 5.9 yards per rush with three rushing touchdowns.