Coming off what can only be described as the biggest win in school history, Johns Creek used last week’s open date to catch their breath and regroup for what may be an even bigger test.

The Gladiators (5-0 overall, 2-0 in 6AAAAAA play) will travel to West Forsyth (5-0, 2-0) on Friday to face the Wolverines in a battle of 6AAAAAA’s elite.

“I think its going to be a real good football game,” said Johns Creek football coach Mike Cloy. “You look at them on film and I know they are the best team we have played all year.

“Every team is tough and different, but these guys are so sound on offense and defense.”

Johns Creek topped Chattahoochee 30-16 in their most recent game Sept. 28. Cloy said that last Friday’s bye came at a perfect time, allowing them a chance to refocus after such an emotional win.

“Everyone was so psyched and revved up about that win that I really think our bye couldn’t have come at a better time. It’s allowed us to recover from some of those bumps and bruises while also getting back to some degree of normalcy.”

The Gladiators’ biggest challenge this Friday will revolve around stopping West Forsyth’s powerful Wing-T offense and A.J. Erdeley, the dynamic quarterback that makes the Wolverines’ offense click.

Erdeley — who is committed to Middle Tennessee State — has thrown for 935 yards, six touchdowns and no interceptions this season while orchestrating a strong running game from under-center. The senior is also his team’s leading rusher with 408 yards and five touchdowns on the ground.

“He is the guy that makes things go, if you can keep him in check you have a shot at stopping that running game,” said Cloy, whose team shutout Woodstock in their only other matchup against a Wing-T attack.

But he went on to say that West Forsyth — ranked No. 5 in the state in AAAAAA — would be a different animal and that his team was well aware of both the task in front of them and the opportunity it presents.

“It’s another chance to take the next step as a program and take on a top team. If we can play with them we’ll know we’re headed in a really good direction.”