A year ago, North Henderson squeaked by Polk County in an early season football game, but, as Wolverine head coach Jamie Thompson is wont to say, “Last year was last year.”

When the Wolverines host the Knights this Friday evening, Polk will have a new quarterback (#9, Dillon Overholt), and North will have lots of new players, having lost many to graduation.

“North Henderson is a talented team,” Thompson emphasized, “a big 3A school.”

Last week, the Wolverines opened the season with a gritty, 34-28 double-overtime win at Chase, while T.C. Roberson nipped the Knights, 19-15.

“We’re sure not taking them lightly,” Thompson cautioned.

North’s talented quarterback, Kalin Ensley (#15), is back this year.

Thompson notes that the Knights’ Damian Murphy (#77), listed at 5 feet 11 inches and 284 pounds, is their best defensive lineman.

“I tell the (Polk) kids this is their most important game of the season, and mine, because it’s the next game,” Thompson said.

“It’s like Janet Jackson said,” Thompson continued. ‘”What have you done for me lately?’”

Thompson acknowledged, “We’re a little banged up after last week. That comes with the territory.” But, he added, “Everybody will be able to play. Each week, our goal is to get better. You’re always looking for that perfect game.”

Opening kickoff is set for 7:30 at Columbus.