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The Rematch: Pueblo South & Palmer Ridge clash for 3A State Championship crown

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It's a rematch 10 weeks in the making.

Ever since CHSAA came out with the 3A high school football playoff bracket in November, many fans hoped for a Palmer Ridge, Pueblo South final.

On Saturday, those fans will get there wish.

"Two great times going at it what more can you ask for?," said Pueblo South senior quarterback Logan Petit.

"I think it will be a dog fight on Saturday. I know both teams are hungry for a win," added Palmer Ridge senior running back Raef Ruel.

Both squads have senior laden teams looking to leave their legacy at their respective schools.

For the seniors, we have been here since we started building that culture of winning," said Ruel. "It would mean a lot to us to win it for a third straight year."

"This is our 2nd year going to the state championship in 3 seasons," explained Pueblo South senior wide receiver Jackson Dickerson. "its just something special."

Both teams have had different paths to the state finals.

For Palmer Ridge, they have run through the competition this season, including the playoffs.

"We knew there would have to be a lot of guys that needed to step up into key roles after losing 21 season, but we also knew the men we had in the program were up for the challenge," said Bears head coach Tom Pulford.

"This is what we have been playing for," explained Palmer Ridge senior defensive back Kieran Fry. "This is what we are used to. this is the goal nothing out of the ordinary."

As for South, this year has been a year of luck and ton of Pueblo spirit.

"This is the best possible outcome since they are our only loss this season," said Pueblo South senior defensive back Tyler White.

So it call it foreshadowing or call it destiny, but on Saturday both the Colts and the Bears will put it all on the line to hoist the state championship trophy.

"I wouldn't say I am nervous, I would just say we are ready," said Ruel.

"This is the state championship, so everything is on the line. Since this is our last time, I think we are going to give it our all and leave it all on the line," added Petit.