Every football season has its own story lines along the way.

Whether there are surprises or disappointments no one quite knows what to expect until the ball is snapped.

The Pike County Bulldogs are, in this case, one of the surprises of the season.

Headed into the biggest game of the season against Daleville, who is currently tied with PCHS for first place in 3A Region 2, the Bulldogs have been perfect thus far ñ posting a 7-0 record.

After the team’s sub par performance in its preseason game against Charles Henderson and 5-5 record last season, no one saw these Bulldogs putting this kind of a season together expect for a select few ñ the players and coaches on the team.

Since giving up 38 points in the loss to the Trojans, the Bulldogs’ defense has only given up 10 or more points three times and have shut out two of its opponents, as well.

That defense has only allowed 57 total points this season ñ that stat alone, no matter the level of football, is impressive.

Throughout the season, head coach Eddie Stephenson, has said two of the most important parts of this season was getting the kids to believe in his system and the players giving everything they can to being successful ñ and they have done just that.

The hybrid wing-T offense may look ineffective at first, but it has been the exact opposite for PCHS.

The offense, led by seniors Marquavous Knox and Josh Parker, has scored 30 or more points four different times this season.

The offense is nothing flashy, but it gets the job done and that seems to be what the Bulldogs are all about this season ñ never giving up until the job is done.

Now, just three seasons removed from a 14-1 overall record and state championship win, the Bulldogs appear poised to make another run at a championship.

All that stands in their way is a Daleville team who wants to accomplish the same kind of goals as PCHS.

This 2009 Bulldog team has the basic tools necessary for what it takes to be a champion ñ a good running attack and a strong defense.

Will this hold true for Friday’s game?

Only time will tell.

But if this season has been any indication of what the Bulldogs and their fans can expect, I think it may be safe to say this team will be celebrating another region championship and will be the team to beat come playoff time.