Gilbert at Brookland-Cayce is even bigger now than it was.

The game is for the 3A Region 5 crown. It was scheduled for Oct. 7. Due to Hurricane Mathew, the game was rescheduled for Friday. The game time was changed to 7 p.m.

“This game is big. We’re really excited for the challenge,” said BC Head Coach Rusty Charpia. “It should be a very good high school game.”

His counterpart agrees.

“This game is huge for our program,” said Gilbert head Coach Chad Leaphart. “We are playing to win Gilbert’s first Region Championship in football. Our kids are fired up about the opportunity to play for that.”

It’s a game that will result in lots of talent on the field.

Charpia said Gilbert is playing well and he expects Gilbert running back Catriez Cook to be a force. He complimented Indians Freshman QB Josh Strickland, too.

Leaphart expects to face a stout defense at Brookland-Cayce.

“BC is an athletic and physical team that will be a big challenge for us,” he said. “Their Defensive Line led by Tay Pringle will be the best we have seen this year.”

Leaphart said the Bearcats have plenty of options on offense, too.

“Offensively, they utilize multiple formations and sets to get the ball in the hands of their play makers. Charpia is dynamic at QB and will be difficult to contain.”

Rusty Charpia said he’s glad to get the game at home, but he said he expects it to go down the the wire.

Gilbert had a bye week before the BC game.

“Normally, I would be worried about the bye week, Leaphart said, “but this year we have had two already and played really well coming off of them. The week comes at a good time to regenerate for a playoff run.

Both teams have secured home playoff games in the first round. Charpia said he wants as many home games as possible. He said he wants to bring some new experiences for BC too. Leaphart said the same.

“We are excited about being the first to accomplish those things for our school and that’s what keeps us focused and drives us,” Leaphart said.

NOTE: The game is in the 7 p.m. time slot. Charpia said he- and Leaphart- are in favor of moving all high school varsity games to the 7 p.m. time slot next year. Because the games are ending too late in the evening.