Tonight’s game between Parklane Academy and Centreville Academy will be a homecoming for Brian Stutzman.

The former Centreville Academy assistant will be making his first return to the school since taking over as the Pioneers’ head coach in 2015.

Last year at Parklane, the Pioneers defeated the Tigers 34-18. And now, they’re coming off an eye-catching 37-12 win over MAIS football powerhouse Simpson Academy. That upset win allowed Parklane to claim the No. 5 spot in this week’s Clarion-Ledger Class AAAA poll.

Centreville assistant coach Robbie Isonhood said the key matchup will be each team’s offenses.

“We pretty much expect to see the same offenses on both sides of the ball. Whichever offense will be more dominant against the other’s defense (will have the advantage),” Isonhood said.

Defense will also play a pivotal factor, Isonhood said, particularly whichever side is able to slow down the other’s rushing attack.

“Parklane is a lot bigger team than us, and they have more players,” Isonhood said.

“They’re a little more physical, and it’s going to be a physical game. Hopefully we can stop them.”

Isonhood said for the Tigers to pull off win will require a stronger effort than showcased in last week’s 27-6 win at Amite School Center.

“We’ve got to be physical on the line of scrimmage,” he said. “We’ve also got to be physical on defense to stop the run.”

Isonhood said he thinks the Tiger fanbase is looking forward to the return of Stutzman, and the former assistant will receive a welcome ovation at game time.

“Brian will get a wonderful reception,” Isonhood said. “Coach Stutzman did a lot of great things for Centreville Academy. Not just (varsity) football, but junior-high football and track as well. Of course during the game, everybody will want us to win, but he’s a great person, a great friend and a great coach.”

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.