Wartburg opens the division three national playoffs at home this weekend against Bethel of Minnesota. The Knights ran the table to win the Iowa Conference championship and finished the regular season 10-0. Wartburg coach Rick Willis says they are excited to have the chance to play at home in the playoffs.

 These teams met in the playoffs seven years ago. He says Bethel is committed to running the ball and are physical and they have an outstanding defense.

Willis expects a hard-hitting game as he says both teams consider themselves tough, physical football teams. Wartburg was in the playoffs two years ago and made it all the way to the quarterfinal round. He says there are a number of guys from that playoff team and their experience will help.

By Elwin Huffman KOEL Oelwein