If there is one thing that can be counted on in 2A football, it’s when Parkers Chapel and Magnet Cove play one another, the game is close with plenty of drama.
Of the nine games played between the Trojans and Panthers, six have been decided by 13 points or less, including Magnet Cove’s 36-30 win last year at Victor Nipper Stadium in the first clash between the rivals in three years.
Tonight, the Trojans and Panthers meet again with each squad looking to gather momentum with conference play looming.
Game time is set for 7 p.m. from Magnet Cove.
The Panthers (1-2) enter on a two-game losing streak having fallen to Bismarck and Glen Rose.
Their lone win came three weeks ago against Murfreesboro, who happens to be Parkers Chapel’s opponent next week.
The Trojans (0-1) haven’t played since August 27 at Smackover.
Given that the Trojans haven’t played in three weeks, conditioning could be a factor, but rain and cooler temperatures are in Friday’s forecast.
“Hopefully it will be a little cooler Friday night,” Parkers Chapel coach Elliot Jacobs said. “We will have to do a good job on slowing our pace offensively and utilizing our timeouts.”
Despite being off the last two weeks, Jacobs said the Trojans have been able to focus on improving as a team.
“We have been able to focus on us and what we need to do to be better each day,” Jacobs said.
Jacobs saw plenty of similarities between the respective offenses.
“They are trying to find their identity on offense a lot like we are, but they do a good job of mixing in run and pass,” Jacobs said.
Former Parkers Chapel assistant Hunter Vincent is Magnet Cove’s defensive coordinator, and Jacobs said his offense faces a tough test.
“He does a great job game planning and will have that defense ready to go,” Jacobs said. “Their two defensive ends are great football players.”
Given their history, Jacobs is expecting Friday’s clash to be another close one between the Trojans and Panthers.
“I’ve been a part of two of the games so far and both have been good games with each of us coming out with a win,” Jacobs said. “I expect another good game this Friday.”
If the Trojans are to have success on the road, Jacobs said there were two things his team must do.
“Limit the big plays defensively and take care of the ball offensively,” Jacobs said. “Magnet Cove is a well-coached team that plays hard every snap.”