Scott Heinauer is hoping to avoid a case of deja vu come Friday night.

Mars' football coach remembers well his team's regular-season finale against Knoch last year.

The Planets entered that game needing to win to secure a first-round playoff game at the Mars Athletic Complex. Knoch thwarted those plans, however, by upsetting Mars 21-10.

The Planets were forced to hit the road and had an early exit from the postseason, losing 42-7 at Belle Vernon.

Mars (8-1, 5-1) is currently in second place in the Northern Conference, but falling short at home against Hampton (2-7, 1-5) Friday would have a definite affect on its seeding in the playoffs.

“This is a rivalry game, so you can throw the records out the window,” Heinauer said. “Our kids know their kids. We play them in every sport.

“Our kids are excited and want a home playoff game.”

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.

The Planets have received solid play from a host of players this year, junior Michael Carmody among them. He moved from tight end to right tackle in summer camp and has continued to be a disruptive force as a defensive end.

“He's getting better every week and has made a huge improvement on defense from last year,” said Heinauer.

Carmody and the Planets will be focused on Hampton quarterback Max Obenrader. The senior has passed for 905 yards and rushed for 515 this year.

“If you looked up the word 'warrior,' his name would pop up,” said veteran Talbots' coach Jacque DeMatteo. “He can run and throw, has had some nagging injuries this year and battled through them. He has been consistent all season for us. I appreciate his toughness.”

Hampton dropped a non-conference game against Penn-Trafford last week, 42-6. The Talbots are in last place in the conference standings, but are in the middle of the pack in points given up.

The team's two wins came against non-conference foe Knoch (28-8) and Kiski Area (34-31). Two of the Talbots' losses — to Shaler and North Hills — have come by three points or less

“We've been tough to deal with,” said DeMatteo. “We've shown a lot of heart and enthusiasm. We have just nine seniors and the future is bright for us.”

Mars senior fullback Garrett Reinke has piled up 1,518 rushing yards and leads the Butler Eagle Scoring Trophy standings with 120 points. Freeport quarterback Austin Romanchak is second with 98 points.