My second trip to Lucas Oil

Friday marks my second trip to Lucas Oil Stadium this year. My first trip was for the Greencastle vs. Owen Valley, but Friday is one of the biggest days in high school football -- the state championship.

And to be honest, I'm a little nervous. Sure, I cover football week in and week out, but this is a whole different animal. The good thing is it seems we have all the access we usually have; so it should be routine as usual.

But I can't wait.

I can't wait for the moment when North Putnam takes the field and the thunderous applause rises for their cheer block that is guaranteed to include family, friends and fans from throughout Putnam County. Greencastle filled their designated area against Owen Valley, so I'm sure it will be packed and loud come Friday at 7 p.m.

I'm very protective of the teams I cover. I don't like to hear them bad-mouthed by those outside the area and it's been tough reading what some are saying about the game. Some offer predictions, some throw stats around and some just want to say bad things about a small school who's achieved so much.

I won't dare make a prediction, because my track record isn't the greatest, and I'm not going to throw stats in your face. For everything Fort Wayne Luers has and all they've achieved, there is one thing I know for sure. North Putnam will fight the hardest, they won't give up and the one thing they bring to the table is the one thing that can turn a team into a champion -- heart.

I know where I'll be Friday at 7 p.m. Where will you be?