The Crenshaw Christian Academy Cougars will be stepping up a few weight classes to duke it out with the Class AAA Autauga Academy Generals Friday.

But by pulling off a clutch victory in a thrilling overtime game against Cornerstone Christian Academy, CCA head coach Dean Briggs is hoping that momentum is on their side.

“It was our final region game that determined who was going to be the No. 3 seed in the region,” Briggs said.

“We ran for about 200 yards, and that’s what we knew we needed to do going in because they have a couple of quarterbacks who can throw it and receivers who can catch it.  Us controlling the clock scaled down their possessions.  We had some turnovers that kept it from ending in regulation.  If we’d kept the ball in our possession, we probably would’ve scored at least twice because we turned them over deep.

“But the kids’ attitudes and the way they responded to adversity was a big part of that win, and in the end our defense stepped it up better than they have all year.”

Though the Generals of Autauga Academy are a far cry from Cornerstone, as Briggs said this Friday’s opponent dwarfs their previous one in terms of size, numbers and athleticism.

“They’re a good team with a lot of players and a lot of skills,” Briggs said. “It’ll be a situation where we’ll have to literally go into this game without having any penalties or mistakes if we want to even have a chance to win.”

Despite the challenges that lie ahead, Briggs said that the proper attitude could have a ripple effect throughout the remainder of the season, and serve as a springboard for a postseason push.

“I think if we can go into this game and play well, and cut out the penalties and mistakes, it’ll give these kids even more confidence,” Briggs said. “They need to keep that confidence level up this week and next, even though it’s not a region game either.  We need to continue this excitement and enthusiasm regardless of the outcome, because it’ll be huge for us in the playoffs.”

The Cougars square off with the Generals Friday night at Autauga Academy.  Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m.