Adams County Christian School will attempt to punch its ticket to the MAIS AAA quarterfinals today when it hosts Starkville Academy.

ACCS (9-2) coach David King, however, said that won’t be an easy task.

“They’re extremely well-coached,” King said. “They’re big and physical, and they’re two years removed from playing for a state championship.”

Starkville enters the second-round playoff matchup having won four of its past five games, including a 28-27 Oct. 7 win over Leake Academy in overtime.

Leake knocked ACCS out of the playoffs last year in the same round.

“That was an outstanding club that just picked one bad half of football to play at the wrong time,” King said. “We dug ourselves in a hole that we couldn’t get out of. That showed that you’re not guaranteed playoff success despite what you’ve done all season.”

King said he thinks turnovers and tackling will be a key, but also said special teams will could potentially play a major factor as both squads feature strong kicking games.

“We take great pride in our special teams,” he said. “That’s a big part of our team. Our coverage teams, we work hard on those throughout the entire week.”

Rebels kicker/punter Cristofer Thompson has served as a strong catalyst on special teams all season long, and King said he expects another strong outing from his junior tonight.

“He’s a weapon, no question about it,” King said. “And they’ve got one, too. We’re going to have to hold on our own. I feel strongly about Cris’ abilities.”

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.

“It’s an exciting time,” King said. “We just hope we have another good crowed like we’ve been having. (Starkville) is a good overall program that’s going to be a big test for us. Thank goodness we have them at home.”