Over the last several seasons, Pike Liberal Arts has rarely had a size advantage over their opponents, but Friday night’s matchup against Morgan Academy will be an exception.

Patriot head coach Gene Allen feels that his team can use its size to its advantage in the opening game of the 2013 season.

“I went and watched them play last week, and they aren’t that big, but they are very athletic” Allen said. “We are little bit bigger than they are, but will have to be ready to play all four quarters to get the win.”

Pike Liberal Arts will take to the road to play one of the most successful programs in the history of the AISA, Morgan Academy.

Morgan Academy was captured 11 AISA state titles, in just 45 seasons of fielding a team. The Senators knocked off the Pats 38-8 a season ago.

However, the revamped Patriots, under the guidance of first-year head coach Gene Allen, have some statistics on their side.

Morgan is 0-26 since the year 2000 when allowing more than 30 points. During the same time frame, Pike is 81-0 when scoring at least 30 points.

Morgan is 8-3 all time against Pike Liberal

The season opener is also a region game for Pike, and places even more emphasis on the contest.

“They are all big to me,” Allen said. “But region games are huge, and to start out 1-0 in the region would be great for us.”