Nerves steeled, Seiryuu High returned to the line, knowing that their recent interception had only bought them time, not the lead. Thirty yards lay between Shinryu High and Seiryuu's end zone—a distance their rivals could close in just a few heartbeats if Seiryuu wasn't sharp. Every player seemed to recognize that their intensity needed to peak with every inch of turf still in contention.
Rensuke, Seiji, and Kuuga met at the line with an air of unspoken camaraderie, their confident glances telegraphing a connection forged from hours of plays drilled under pressure. But as they assumed their familiar positions, a subtle shift caught Seiryuu off guard. In a sudden adjustment, Seiji and Kuuga both aligned as wide receivers, while a new face stepped up to the center role. Seiryuu's defense eyed the newcomer with a mix of caution and curiosity. His semi-muscular frame and toned arms hinted at a strength that could pose serious problems.
