After five weeks at No. 1, the Ferriday Trojans lost their grip on the top spot after a 27-24 loss to Lake Providence last week. But who will be there to pick up the position? A host of other teams are worthy of the top spot, but the new No. 1 team is Franklin County. Even though the Bulldogs lost to top ranked Tylertown last week, they still have performed well enough against a tough schedule to merit the top spot. However, a loss to rival Jefferson County could change all of that.

1. Franklin County (7-3)

Last week: lost to Tylertown 16-7

Tonight’s game: at Jefferson County

Why ranked here: The Bulldogs gave top ranked and undefeated Tylertown all they could handle for four quarters before falling by 11 points last week. The loss snapped Franklin County’s seven game winning streak, but impressive victories over Hazlehurst and Taylorsville give the Bulldogs the right to be the top team. Tonight’s game is vital for both Franklin County and Jefferson County, as the winner finishes second in Region 7-3A and hosts a first round playoff game.

2. Centreville (7-3)

Last week: defeated ACCS 35-12

Tonight’s game: vs. Central Private

Why ranked here: After suffering through a two-game losing streak, the Tigers have won three in a row, including an impressive 27-6 victory over Trinity Episcopal two weeks ago. Tonight’s game against Central Private is for the District 5-AA championship and the Tigers are trying to avenge a 13-12 loss to the Rebels that cost them last season’s district title.

3. Natchez High (6-3)

Last week: defeated Terry 34-3

Tonight’s game: vs. Wingfield

Why ranked here: For the second year in a row, the Bulldogs are in must win mode if they want to make the playoffs after starting 1-2 in Region 3-6A play. And, just like last year, Natchez is winning, including an impressive 34-3 thrashing of Terry last week. Tonight’s game should be no problem for the Bulldogs, as they face an 0-9 Wingfield team, but looming next week is a pivotal game against Hattiesburg that may decide Natchez’s playoff fate.

4. Ferriday (6-2)

Last week: lost to Lake Providence 27-24

Tonight’s game: at Sterlington

Why ranked here: After several second half comebacks, the magic finally ran out for the Trojans in last week’s loss as Lake Providence scored a touchdown in the final seconds to pull out the upset victory. Ferriday can still win a share of the District 2-2A championship with wins in its final two games, but its playoff seeding was definitely hurt by last week’s loss. The Trojans will try to bounce back tonight against last place Sterlington.

5. Trinity Episcopal (7-3)

Last week: defeated Tallulah 38-19

Tonight’s game: at Huntington

Why ranked here: After three straight losses to MAIS Class AA teams, the Saints got back into District 6-A play with a 19-point win over Silliman that clinched at least a share of the district title. Trinity can win the district title outright with a win over last place Huntington tonight.