Senior night is always a special time and this season is certainly no different for the Lions and coach Jesse Shay.
For starters, the class of 2019 is the first that has had Shay as a coach since the seventh grade, and the senior class is a part of group that has fed off continuity throughout the entire program.
"They only know one offense and one defense that they run," said Shay. "Being fully integrated from grades 1 through 12 under the same system is huge."
The results have been obvious and the Lions improved to 7-2 on the season with a 46-21 win past Spring Grove.
Of course, with that success comes expectations and the Lions have plenty of those heading to this week's showdown at rival Dallastown.
If Red Lion beats the Wildcats, it will mean a share of the YAIAA Division I title, and a firm spot in the District 3 6A playoffs.
Beating Dallastown means containing, not stopping, magical running back Nyzair Smith, who has had 300-yard rushing games twice this season.
"He really is their bread and butter," said Shay.
At least the Lions are used to having success against great players. They beat both Central York and outstanding quarterback Cade Pribula, and York High and incredible running back Dajure Stewart.
"You aren't going to stop him, so you limit how much Nyzair hurts you. It's the same approach as we had with Cade and Dayjure.
