When West Jones lost a hard-fought battle to West Point in the 5A state championship game last year, most local fans thought, “Well, that was their chance to get a ring. It will be a while before the Mustangs are that good again.”
That’s not illogical thinking, considering that Byron Young, who now suits up for the Crimson Tide of Alabama, and a few other really good players took off their shoulder pads for the last time for West Jones after that championship game. Many presumed the defense would take a huge step back, but that’s not exactly what has happened. After seven games last year the Mustangs averaged 24.3 points per game on offense and were giving up just 4.3 points defensively. Skip ahead to this year, and the Mustangs are averaging 36.6 points per game while surrendering 11 points per outing. So, yes, the defense of 2018 was statistically better, and they had four shutouts through seven games a year ago, but this year’s defense is putting the brakes on opponents quite well themselves.
But do you remember what happened in game eight last year? If not, be reminded: Laurel scored over three touchdowns on that superb West Jones’ defense and went home with a 23-17 win.
Laurel is good again this year. They are a one-point loss to Wayne County away from also being 7-0 this year, and they are coming to Soso with the intention of blemishing the Mustangs’ perfect record. The Tornadoes, by the way, post 32.6 points per game while giving up just 12.6, and one could argue that they have played the tougher schedule. Can Laurel repeat last season's performance against West Jones, or will the Mustangs' improved offense be enough to flip the script Friday? Look below to see what our expert pickers think.
