It’s playoff time! Well, at least for most area teams. All Mississippi private schools and MHSAA classes 2A-5A begin their playoffs this week while Louisiana public schools and MHSAA classes 1A and 6A have to wait until next week to start their postseason. Three of the top five teams are beginning their playoffs tonight, while Natchez High might as well be. The Bulldogs must win over Hattiesburg to clinch a playoff spot for the second consecutive year. Ferriday also faces an important game as it could use the power ratings boost a win over a strong Farmerville team would bring.

1. Franklin County (8-3)

Last week: defeated Jefferson County 14-0

Tonight’s game: vs. Velma Jackson

Why ranked here: Franklin County has proven itself to be the strongest team in the Miss-Lou through the regular season. After a surprising 0-2 start, the Bulldogs have won eight of their last nine, with its only loss being a nine-point defeat to the No. 1 ranked Tylertown Chiefs. The Bulldogs have advanced to at least the South State championship game the past three years and would like to get there again. The road back there begins tonight in the first round of the Class 3A playoffs.

2. Centreville (8-3)

Last week: defeated Central Private 34-12

Tonight’s game: vs. Glenbrook

Why ranked here: The Tigers really flexed their muscles last week with an impressive win over Central Private. The game wasn’t as close as the final score, as Centreville led 34-0 at halftime in clinching the District 5-AA championship. The Tigers have won two consecutive MAIS Class AA state championships and the road to No. 3 begins tonight against Glenbrook.

3. Natchez High (7-3)

Last week: defeated Wingfield 66-34

Tonight’s game: at Hattiesburg

Why ranked here: The playoffs don’t officially begin for MHSAA Class 6A until next week, but they start tonight for Natchez High. The Bulldogs must win against Hattiesburg to make the playoffs. Natchez scored 59 points in the first half against Wingfield last week, and could sure use some of that offensive firepower tonight against a solid Hattiesburg team.

4. Ferriday (7-2)

Last week: defeated Sterlington 14-0

Tonight’s game: vs. Farmerville

Why ranked here: Ferriday shook off a disappointing loss to Lake Providence two weeks ago with a solid victory over Sterlington last week in the rain. Tonight’s game against Farmerville is not only for the District 2-2A championship, but will also give the Trojans a big boost in the power ratings, and possibly a top 10 seed in the playoffs, which begin next week.

5. Trinity Episcopal (8-3)

Last week: defeated Huntington 19-0

Tonight’s game: vs. Riverdale

Why ranked here: It’s been three years since Trinity took home a state championship, and the Saints are itching to hold up the trophy at the end of the season again. They start their road back to the championship game tonight against Riverdale. All three of Trinity’s losses this season are to MAIS Class AA teams. The Saints are 7-0 against Class A teams.