NATCHEZ — The 2017 high school football season saw the emergence of Jefferson Davis County High School, which came about after Prentiss High School and Bassfield High School were consolidated.

What happened on the field was simply surprising. The Jaguars beat the likes of Harrison Central, Collins, Wayne County, Natchez High, Franklin County, Tylertown and West Marion during the regular season.

They went on to win the MHSAA Region 8-3A title, the Class 3A South State title with a 26-16 win at Hazlehurst, and the Class 3A state title by defeating North State champion Yazoo County 36-7 to cap off a 15-1 dream season.

Natchez High, already off to a 2-0 start and coming off a bye week, will be seeking to avenge last year’s 48-35 loss in Bassfield when the Bulldogs host Jefferson Davis County at Tom F. Williams Memorial Stadium Friday at 7 p.m.

“During the bye week, we spent the majority of the time correcting ourselves,” Bulldogs head coach Roy Rigsby said.

When asked what he would like to see his team improve on, Rigsby said, “Starting fast and coming out focused. We came our slow the last two games. Fatigue could be a problem as the game goes longer.”

Even though Jefferson Davis County (2-2) isn’t sneaking up on anyone in 2018 and is on a two-game losing streak, Rigbsy said the Jaguars do not have any weaknesses.

“They’re the (Class) 3A state champions. They have a good coaching staff and tremendous player,” he said.

While Rigsby would not say what his mode of attack would be, he did say, “We’ll just try to execute the game plan.”

Among the Bulldogs’ standout players to be watching for on offense are running backs Javontae Davis and Desnick Bolden, and on defense are inside linebacker Ryon “Champ” Rigsby and defensive end/inside linebacker Fred Givens.

Another key factor could be home-field advantage as Rigsby is looking for a big turnout.

“Most teams play better at home. Hopefully, it will remain true for us,” he said. “We’re asking all of Natchez to support us as we take on this tall task.”