Friday Night Lights Permian High School ain't got nothing on Whitehall High and Zephyr Stadium this week.

With the arrival of Parkland High School for the District XI AAAA subregional semifinals, all eyes in the Lehigh Valley will be on the show that kicks off at 7 p.m. this Friday at Zephyr Stadium as the co-champs of the Lehigh Valley Conference meet again, with the winner advancing to the district finals.

It will be a hot ticket, indeed. In fact, it's probably safe to assume that cars will be lined up and down Campus Drive in anticipation of this rematch between LVC titans. And you thought Sarah Palin's book signing in Bethlehem was the biggest thing going this week in the Valley.

This game featuring the two 'cross the cornfield' rivals will have lasting memories for the players as well as the spectators.

The teams met in the fifth week of the season with the Trojans defeating the Zephs 21-12. Since that game, Whitehall has strung together six consecutive wins, while the Trojans haven't lost since week two against Easton Area High School.

Head coach Brian Gilbert said his squad is a better team since week five. In that game, the Zephs gave up over 300 yards on the ground, with tailback Kareem Williams picking up 219 to help the Trojans secure the win.

With that performance still on their mind as they watch film, Gilbert said they must simply adhere to one simple rule when they take the field.

"We need to tackle Williams and the rest of their running backs every time they get the ball," said Gilbert. "We have to play assignment football and account for everybody."

The Zephs defense has been stout all season, with no one scoring more than 28 points against them all year. However, Parkland possesses speed throughout their backfield with senior Elijah Redmond presenting another potent weapon, while quarterback Devante Cross is someone who can pick up rushing yards in a flash.

Cross is a multiple threat who can improvise when a play breaks down. Gilbert said that playing a quarterback who can run the ball effectively presents a challenge.

Gilbert said they'll mix up their looks defensively while making sure they fly to the ball to limit big plays.

The Trojans also have a talented receiving corps with Jarey Elder and Najee Redmond who are able to take it to the house on any given play.

The Zephs counter with a strong backfield as well, with junior Saquon Barkley arguably the premier back in the Lehigh Valley Conference. He's gained 1,368 yards this year, including 22 TDs. Ryan Bonshak will also leave a mark on the game, with the senior back amassing 583 yards so far this season.

Receiver Conor Sullivan is one of the top wideouts in the conference, while Darius Young, along with Barkley and Bonshak are threats to score anytime they catch the ball in the passing game.

Gilbert said that their passing game has improved since week five, giving them another area on the field to attack.

"I think our passing attack has come a long way," said Gilbert.

Senior signal caller Jeff Charles has thrown for 1,641 yards, connecting for 11 touchdowns.

His steady hand is one of the main reasons why they're in the semifinals. Gilbert said he's playing with confidence and that's allowed them to be in the position to contend for a title.

With such a varied attack, Gilbert wants to use all the weapons in his arsenal.

"We want to make sure we're balanced on offense," he said. "That's going to be critical for us."

Team speed also is a defensive trait for the Trojans with linebacker Nezar Haddad a veritable tackling machine. Gilbert said they have talent on the D-line as well, with Omar Haddad a disruptive force.

"They have speed all over the place," said Gilbert. "There isn't a weak spot on their defense, to tell you the truth."

Speed will also be an ally for the Zephyr defensive unit with Jacob Kerchner, Jacob Buskirk, Chad Rex, Mustafa Mitchell, Young, Barkley and Bonshak all capable of chasing down opponents.

Gilbert said the mood has been positive as they look forward to playing against Parkland.

"It's been really enthusiastic," Gilbert said. "I think they're really excited for the challenge.

"The players are ready. They're preparing themselves like it's a championship game."

Friday night lights at Zephyr Stadium in Whitehall will definitely be the place to be. See you there.