NATCHEZ — Last week, Trinity Episcopal School was the undefeated team everyone was gunning for.

When the Saints traveled to River Oaks Academy last Friday, the Mustangs were the first team to knock off Trinity this year, winning 27-25.

On Friday, the Saints hope to do to Brookhaven Academy what River Oaks did to them — be the first team to defeat the undefeated.

For Trinity senior R.J. Fleming, the difference between the intensity level of practice this week and last week is noticeable.

“There was no sense of urgency, no get up about us that week after the big win against Central Private,” Fleming said.

“There’s a big-time difference this week. The practices are more intense. Coach (David) King has drilled us hard, and everyone’s really into it.”

According to King, the loss against River Oaks served as a way to light a fire under his players.

“I think the boys don’t like to lose,” King said. “I thought it was a wake-up call and I think we’ve had a good week of practice.”

King also said the quality of the opponents his team has faced over the last few weeks made the prospect of remaining undefeated difficult.

“Central Private, Brookhaven Academy and River Oaks are all ranked in the top four of (MAIS) AA, so we’ve certainly seen some great football teams,” King said.

The Saints have also seen some vastly different teams in terms of offensive style, said King.

“I thought Central Private was the most outstanding at running of the three. River Oaks had the most balanced attack, and Brookhaven throws the ball as well as any team I’ve seen.”

King expects the passing game from Brookhaven to be a major test for his pass defense, which feels has left a lot to be desired.

“I think our pass defense has not lived up to it’s billing,” King said. “We will have to get better (in that regard), because this will be the test of all tests.”

By that same token, King said his defensive line would have to be able to put pressure on the Brookhaven quarterback and make him uneasy in the pocket.

“Out pass rush will be very important. We’ve changed up a few things with our front four to put more speed up there. The quarterback for Brookhaven throws really well and we can’t give him time to pick us apart.”

Fleming said he expects the Saints to play better than they did last week, but he also expects Brookhaven to bring everything it has at them.

“Just that taste of a loss is awful,” Fleming said. “I feel like everyone will bring their A game. We also expect Brookhaven to bring its best effort. Every team we play has us in a bull’s-eye.”