We reach the official one-third mark of the prep football season this week.
For some schools, it is actually time to start region play. Other schools are trying to remain undefeated, while others are still looking for that first win.
As we get set for another exciting week on the gridiron, here is what we will be watching for in Week 3:
Green Wave or Falcons
1-Can Columbus continues its new-found offensive success?
It’s a safe bet that Columbus will not run for 350 yards Friday night against West Point. It reached that mark in last week’s 49-21 win over New Hope.
Columbus gained a lot of confidence when its young offensive line clicked for four quarters of play. The Falcons also gained confidence by having these types of offensive numbers without Kylin Hill in the lineup.
That being said, the challenge will be much greater this week when West Point rolls into Falcon Field. A year ago, Columbus managed a field goal on its’ first possession and did not score again, in a 13-3 loss.
Speaking of offense, West Point is trying to kickstart its unit after last week’s 28-6 loss at Starkville. The Green Wave certainly has the weapons. Now, it’s a matter of playing well for four quarters.
Columbus saw a packed house for its home opener. The same should be true for this one as well.
Raiders or Volunteers
2-Which team grabs the season’s fourth victory at J.E. Logan Field?
Starkville Academy and Lamar School will each put three-game winning streaks on the line when the two meet Friday night in Oktibbeha County.
From an offensive standpoint, both teams are rolling. Starkville Academy dismantled Magnolia Heights Academy 39-7 last week, while Lamar had a surprisingly-easy time in a 38-14 home win over Simpson Academy.
It appears Lamar is running the ball more this season. A dominant ground game paved the way for Lamar to roll to a 31-13 victory last season at home.
This year’s matchup should be far more competitive. Starkville Academy is still looking for a signature victory despite a 3-0 start. It could come Friday night.
Wildcats or Tigers
3-Can Noxubee County bag its second win against Class 6A competition this season?
One will never fault coach Tyrone Shorter for playing an easy schedule at Noxubee County. Each year, the Tigers have a non-region schedule loaded with state championship contenders.
Noxubee County not only plays some Class 5A and Class 6A foes but it also lines up against teams expected to compete for state championships in those two respective classes.
Two weeks ago, Noxubee County knocked off Class 6A foe Columbus on the road, knocking it for one week from the Clarion-Ledger Super 10. The Tigers came within an eyelash of back-to-back Class 6A victories with a narrow loss to Starkville taking place before the Columbus contest.
The new week brings another Class 6A challenge in the form of Meridian. After being totally dominated in the New Hope Jamboree by Columbus, Meridian has come to life in the regular season with victories over South Panola and Wayne County, as well as an overtime loss to Madison Central.
This contest should be outstanding. A young Noxubee County team will know even more about itself when the final horn sounds.
Whatever happens, we can assume Noxubee County will have a much better showing than last season’s 28-0 defeat to Meridian at Ray Stadium.
Eagles or Rams
4-Can Columbus Christian grab its first home win?
Tupelo Christian Prep comes to Steens Friday night with the homestanding Columbus Christian squad looking for its second win overall and first win at home.
Columbus Christian showed signs of its capabilities in a road win at Kirk Academy. However, the Rams have to get better on offense and have to find some consistency.
Early-season injuries have not helped the cause either. However, Oak Hill Academy grabbed a road win against Tupelo Christian Prep, so Columbus Christian has a chance to do the same at home.
A year ago, Columbus Christian played its best football late in the season. Coach Greg Watkins would like to see his squad throw the switch a little earlier this season.
Vikings or Eagles
5-Who wins this area’s big Eight-Man rivalry game?
Over the years, Central Academy and Hebron Christian School have combined to win a lot of football games.
However, when the two rivals meet Friday night in Pheba, each will be looking for victory No. 1 after 0-3 starts. The stakes are even higher since its an MAIS Eight-Man District 2 matchup.
There is still hope for the playoffs, since fellow district rival Calhoun Academy is also winless through three games.
Regardless of the final score, this has been a fun rivalry over the years. Friday night should be no exception.
Scott Walters is a sports writer for The Dispatch. He may be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter @dispatchscott.
Scott was sports editor for The Dispatch.
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