For the second consecutive year, Mart and Albany will battle for the 2A Division II state championship. Albany, last year’s winner, snapped a 61-year title drought by defeating Mart 41-21. This time, the Panthers are determined to break their two-game title game skid and reclaim glory.

Albany’s Formula for Success

The Lions are poised for a repeat, led by senior running back Adam Hill, a Texas Tech commit who has rushed for 2,502 yards and 42 touchdowns this season. Hill, equally dangerous on defense with 28 tackles for loss, anchors Albany’s offense and defense. Complementing Hill is quarterback Chip Chambers, who has built a strong connection with receiver Cason Fairchild (1,143 yards, 14 touchdowns).

Albany’s defense, which hasn’t allowed more than 21 points in a game all year, relies on key players like linebacker Jaxson Hoel (143 tackles) and cornerback Tyler Chapman (126 tackles). The Lions’ ability to control the game through time of possession will be crucial as they aim to keep Mart’s explosive playmakers off the field.

Mart’s Road to Redemption

Mart enters the game motivated to end a four-year championship drought. Under the leadership of head coach Kevin Hoffman, the Panthers lean on dual-threat quarterback De’Montrel Medlock, who has accounted for 41 touchdowns this season. Medlock teams up with running back JD Bell, who boasts 2,336 rushing yards and 41 scores, forming one of the most dynamic backfields in 2A.

Sophomore receiver Ethan Hocking has emerged as a reliable target, highlighted by a 144-yard performance in the semifinals. On defense, linebackers Abram Ross and Cornelius Gillaspy will be tasked with containing Hill and the Lions’ rushing attack.

The Keys to Victory

For Albany, success hinges on replicating last year’s formula: controlling the clock and leaning on Hill’s versatility. For Mart, the path to victory lies in keeping the game close and capitalizing on their playmakers’ explosiveness in the final moments.

This rematch promises to be a thrilling contest as one team seeks redemption and the other fights for back-to-back titles. The winner will walk away with more than just a trophy—they’ll claim bragging rights in a rivalry that grows fiercer with every meeting.