The Parkland football team will once again be practicing on Thanksgiving.

"It's always something we talk about even dating back to when I was at Central Catholic," Morgans said. "The kids love it. Our booster club cooks turkeys, and we have the parents and alumni there. It means that you're making a run in states, so it's always a good thing to practice on Thanksgiving."

The Trojans (11-2) got to this point by taking down Easton 13-10 in overtime for their third straight district championship.

Parkland now has its sights set on defending state champs St. Joe's Prep Saturday afternoon at J. Birney Crum. It is a rematch of the same game a year ago with the Hawks winning 24-10 on their way to the title.

Parkland has been led recently its stout defense. The Trojans have given up an average of 9 points over their three district games. They have also held some premier running backs in check.

"He had some runs we would've liked back, but overall our defense held strong against him," said Morgans.

Saint Joe's Prep will bring some talented athletes. Three Hawks seniors are committed to Division I schools in cornerback John Reid (Penn State), running back Olamide Zaccheaus (Virginia) and Jon Runyan Jr. (Michigan).

Saint Joe's (9-3) got to this point by defeating Father Judge 49-7, LaSalle College High School 46-13, and Benjamin Franklin 47-22. Two of the Hawks three losses have come to perennial powerhouses in Don Bosco Prep (NJ) and St. Ignatius (Ohio).

"They have played some quality opponents and have had some success, but they've also had some failures," said Morgans. "They have some really good athletes, but it's a Philadelphia Catholic school so it's open for them to get some quality people. We're excited to play them again. I know the kids want it bad. I like our chances in a close game."