By PATRICK MURPHY

The Natchez Democrat

NATCHEZ — Both the Adams County Christian School Rebels and Silliman Institute Wildcats come into Friday’s game off of outscoring their opponents by more than 20 points in last week’s games.

In Friday’s game, ACCS assistant coach Billy James said the key would be to keep the ball away from the Wildcats and manage the clock.

“Silliman is an explosive team,” James said. “They have a very explosive offense but we have a really good defense. That’s where the matchup is going to be.”

In last week’s 35-10 victory against Copiah Academy Colonels, ACCS running back DJ Stampley ran for 107 yards and rushed for three touchdowns. Stampley also threw a 31-yard touchdown pass to VJ Knight in the fourth quarter.

James said both Stampley and linebacker Blake LePrairie need to bring the same intensity into the game on Friday.

On defense, LePrairie obtained three tackles and four sacks. At practices this week, LePrairie said he’s focused on two things for Friday’s game.

“I have worked hard in practice beating the double team and I want to focus on coming together as a team,” LePrairie said. “I thought we played together as a team in the second half in the game last week.”

LePrairie said the Rebel’s strongest link is their running game. Against the Colonels, the Rebels rushed for 271 yards.

LePrairie said the ACCS linemen have to do their job.

The Wildcats come into Friday’s game off of a 65-34 win over Columbia Academy. This is the first District 4 game for Silliman Institute. James said Friday’s game is going to be exciting.

“This is why people watch high school football,” James said. “This is the game of the week in this town. More than likely the winner of this game is going to win district.”

The game is set to start at 7 p.m. Friday at Adams County Christian School.