High school football winds down season
By Bart Moss for the FCT
It seems like just yesterday the excitement was in the air for the start of another high school football season. Eleven weeks later, every team in Franklin County is facing an abrupt end to their seasons.
The season will end with two of the longest-running rivalries in Northwest Alabama: Hackleburg at Phil Campbell and Colbert County at Russellville.
Phil Campbell versus Hackleburg
Phil Campbell will host Hackleburg Thursday night. The Panthers (7-2) come into the game as the winner of their region and preparing for a play-off spot.
This is the longest running rivalry for both teams. The Bobcats and Panthers have played each other 82 times, with Hackleburg leading the series 48-33.
“Hackleburg has a really good football team with three or four athletic players,” said Swinney. “They run and pass the ball well. It will be another challenge for us.”
Playing rivalry games, Swinny said, is always fun. “I felt like our guys were excited Friday for the Red Bay game, and maybe we can play with that same intensity this week,” he added.
Red Bay versus Cherokee
Red Bay will face the Cherokee Indians Thursday night. The Indians (7-2) finished runner-up in their region and will host a playoff game next week.
“Cherokee is a very talented football team,” said Jackson. “We will have to handle a quarterback that can run or pass the ball with skill guys at receiver and running back. We will have to play well in the secondary to contain their big plays.”
Russellville versus Colbert County
Russellville will host rival Colbert County (5-4) Friday night. This is the Golden Tigers’ and the Indians’ longest running rivalry. The two teams have played 71 times, with Russellville leading the series 47-23-1.
“Our kids were ready to play Friday night,” said Russellville coach Mark Heaton. “The win Friday, along with wins by Mae Jemison and Brooks, have kept our play-off hopes alive.”
RHS offensive and defensive lines controlled the fronts all night Friday, Heaton added. “We had no turnovers, and we caused some turnovers.”
“Colbert County is a good football team,” said Heaton. “We will have to play well and not turn the ball over.”
Tharptown versus Decatur Heritage
Tharptown will travel to Decatur Heritage Friday night to close out the Wildcats’ season.
“I am really proud of all the guys who have stuck it out with us this season,” said Tharptown coach Kevin Lacey. “It speaks to the character of the guys who have endured this season without giving up.”
Vina
Vina’s season ended Friday night with a win at Tharptown.
