The Emamus football team enters a three-game stretch against three quality opponents that will end the regular season and determine if they will win a division championship.

That stretch starts Friday night as Nazareth pays a visit. The Blue Eagles and Hornets have played some memorable and big football games over the last few years. In 2018, the Hornets beat Nazareth on a late, thrilling and controversial touchdown in the season’s second week, 43-42. The schools then met in the district quarterfinals where Emmaus racked up 55 points in ending Nazareth’s season, 55-40. In ‘19 Nazareth struck back, dumping Emmaus 36-24 in week two.

This year’s edition could prove interesting also. The Blue Eagles are coming off an 18-0 win over Central Catholic, which will be remembered more for a bomb scare that cleared Andrew S. Leh Stadium last Friday night than what happened on the playing field. Nazareth improved to 5-2 overall and 4-2 in the East Penn Conference and coach Tom Falzone’s team statistically presents the best team Emmaus has played to date.

Quarterback Sonny Sasso runs the Blue Eagle offense efficiently and effectively. Last week these traits were on display as Sasso hit nine-of-14 passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns. It’s been the same story all year, as Sasso has completed 94-of-152 passes for 1,301 yards with 12 touchdowns and six interceptions.

Nazareth has more than a good air attack. The ground game is led by Tyler Rohn, who has acquired 587 yards on 123 carries this season. Mason Kuehner and Michael Bonsignore also receive touches. Kuehner is also utilized well as a receiver thanks to his good hands, good moves and better than average speed. He’s snared 28 passes for 380 yards this campaign. Jake Hilarczyk is right behind him for receptions with 27 and the two nicely compliment each other.

The Blue Eagle defense could be described as active and angry. They are playing their best ball of the season right now. They shut out their last two opponents as Liberty’s score in the their Oct. 2 game came against the Nazareth offense. The linebacking corps is experienced and solid. Senior outside linebacker Broc Bender and inside linebackers Chase Levey and Rohn are quick and like to hit.

Although they’ve played outstanding of late, earlier this year this unit struggled to stop Parkland and Bethlehem Catholic who rang up 43 and 41 points, respectively. Whether the Nazareth defense is on a hot streak or has really improved could be answered against Emmaus.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. Friday at East Penn School District Stadium.