This week’s game between Hattiesburg and West Jones is a dream matchup for football fans.
For a regular season-finale, undefeated Hattiesburg will take on the defending Class 6A champions, West Jones, to determine who not only wins their region title but also a No. 1 seed in the playoffs.
“The playoff implications are huge,” Hattiesburg coach Tony Vance said. “We know we are playing for a division championship, but at the same time, it’s the next game on the schedule. We have to keep it in perspective. We understand what’s at stake. Until someone beats them then they are the defending 6A state champs. We understand that, too.
“We are excited to be in the position that we are in. As a coach, you always want to control your own destiny.”
It’s not exactly unfamiliar for the two programs. Ever since the two schools were placed in the same district, their annual matchup has essentially decided the outcome for their district.
The Tigers (9-0, 3-0) were victorious in the first two previous matchups, but last year, the Mustangs defeated Hattiesburg 37-7 as part of their undefeated championship season.
“They are going to be very routine at what they do, and they are going to be really good at it,” Vance said.
Outside of a 42-7 loss to undefeated Jackson Prep, West Jones (8-1, 3-0) has, for the most part, looked again like a championship contender. The Mustangs’ defense has held teams to just 15 points per game, while its offense has put up 29 points per game. Leading West Jones in tackles is Johnny Hinton, who has put up 74 tackles and come down with three interceptions.
“They still move in unison,” Vance said. “They are still well-coached. They play extremely hard. Those guys on defense for West Jones don’t get enough credit. Obviously, it’s not the same team it was last year, but they are still probably one of the best defensive teams that we’ll see all year.”
The key to the Mustangs’ defense is Tyzavien Hopkins, who has recorded 55 tackles, 17 tackles for loss and nine sacks.
“He’s been a problem for everybody,” Vance said. “You watch him on film, that jumps out at you. He is one of those guys on defense, so it doesn’t take long to figure out that we have to make sure that we get him blocked. He’s a great player and plays extremely hard. He’s kind of their energy.”
Spearheading the West Jones offense is running back Elijah Jones, who has racked up 1,385 yards and 21 touchdowns. Complimenting Jones is Caleb Holmes, who has run for 323 yards and five touchdowns.
“They do a great job of finding ways to run the football with him whether it’s Jones back there or Holmes,” Vance said. “Both of those guys do a great job back there running the ball and carrying the load. They are two different styles of runners. Elijah is the big bruising back that can cut and make you miss or run over you and do what he needs to do. Holmes is more dynamic with the ball in his hands.
“You’ll have your hands full trying to stop that running game.”
Hattiesburg will travel to Soso on Thursday to face West Jones. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.
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