The Neshannock football team has went through some major changes since this time last year.

And coach Rob Nogay has changed with it.

In 2004, the Lancers were a running football team. In fact, in a 27-18 win over Mars Oct. 1, Neshannock attempted just two passes while rushing the ball 48 times for 336 yards.

Nogay used that powerful ground attack to lead Neshannock to the WPIAL playoffs for the first time in 22 years.

"Last year, we ran a double-tight, full-house backfield," said Nogay. "We had a lot of good backs, but this year we're better at throwing the football."

Quarterback P.J. Horne, one of four seniors starting for the Lancers, is the focal point of this year's team.

"He's really coming into his own this year," Nogay said.

Horne's next shot to improve will be at Mars Friday. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m.

Horne's top targets are wide receivers Angelo Fortunato and Zach Romeo and tight end Emmanuel Mitsos.

Still, the Lancers are averaging just 13.7 points scored in conference games.

"They do have the ability to score points," said Mars coach Scott Heinauer of the Lancers. "But turnovers have hurt them."

As for Mars' passing game, quarterback D.J. Cannon is expected to return from a left shoulder injury sustained in last week's game against Summit Academy.

"He will be playing Friday," said Heinauer. "The injury came to his non-throwing shoulder, which is a plus."

When playing Mars this season, opponents have discovered they have to guard against both the run and the pass.

Cannon already has as many touchdown passes this season (6) as he ended with last year.

And senior fullback Paul Ferrese is still a threat with 462 yards rushing, a 6.2 average and six touchdowns.

One area of concern for Mars (2-3, 2-1) is special teams.

The Planets have had three kickoffs returned against them for touchdowns so far in 2005.

And along with his signal-calling duties, Horne also had a 92-yard kickoff return in a Week 3 loss against Shenango.

"We know we can't let that happen and we've talked about the possibility of some personnel moves on special teams to correct the problem," said Heinauer. "But it certainly has nothing to do with our kicker (Tim Wirtz).

"Tim is one of the best kickers we've ever had here. He's got a great leg and puts the ball in the end zone a lot. When that happens, there is no chance for a return."

Neshannock is coming off a 14-7 win over Riverside, moving the team's record to 2-1 in Tri-County North Conference play (3-2 overall).

"We're both 2-1 in the conference," said Heinauer. "And this game is as big as any the rest of the year."