The playoffs are closing in. Check out who Co-Editors James Pugh and Kevan Lindsey picked this week!
Current Records: James Pugh (11-8) and Kevan Lindsey (19-7).
Laurel at Bay Springs
If ever there was a lopsided contest, classification wise, this would be it.
The one thing I can say about 2A Bay Springs is the fact that they aren’t scared to play anyone. In years past, they’ve played teams like 5A West Jones and even scheduled Madison-Ridgeland Academy (MRA) for this year before COVID-19 wreaked havoc on their schedule.
The mere numbers and bodies on the sideline that 5A Laurel possesses will be a difference in the game, of course, but I expect Bay Springs to give all they have in a moment like this.
James’ Prediction: Laurel 28, Bay Springs 8.
Northeast Jones at Newton County
It’s a shame that in a year where the Tigers’ defense has been acutely impressive, giving up an average of 16 points per game, that its offense has struggled to score.
Regardless of Friday night’s outcome, the Tigers are in the playoffs, but that’s looking ahead. Newton County is currently undefeated on the season at 8-0 and should win Friday night with ease.
James’ Prediction: Newton County 24, Northeast Jones 6.
Raleigh at Velma Jackson
Raleigh is one win away from being able to be called District Champions. What a great story this has been for the Lions.
The road won’t be easy as the Falcons are 6-0 and have given up 16 points in district play and a mere 34 points all season. On the flip side, Raleigh has given up just 34 points while scoring 212 points in district play while Velma Jackson has scored 146 in district play. I’m riding with Raleigh to take this one, but not in a runaway victory.
Kevan’s Prediction: Raleigh 28, Velma Jackson 20.
Laurel at Bay Springs
What a turn of events. COVID-19 has created a few games that no one expected and this is yet another one of those games.
Laurel will travel into Jasper County to the hosting Bay Springs Bulldogs as both teams need a tune-up game before the playoffs. Two of the area’s premier athletes will square off in Xavier Evans and Ty Jones. Laurel has a history of struggling a bit with the Wing-T offense, so this could be close for a bit. Depth and speed will be the key, though, and that is where Laurel wins this one.
Kevan’s Prediction: Laurel 34, Bay Springs 18.
