By Staff
Charles Prince, Sports Editor
The Hartselle Tiger football team got back on track for a state playoff appearance last week in Muscle Shoals. The Tigers got up early and seemed to let down for part of the first half. They came out in the second half and played the way they're capable of playing, scoring 28 unanswered points.
This week things get tougher as the Tigers travel to Athens to take on the Golden Eagles.
Athens is coming off a big win at Cullman. The game was tied at 14 when Athens' Neal Pickett picked up a blocked field goal and scored with less than three minutes to play.
The heads-up play by Pickett may have cost the Bearcats a playoff trip and secured one for the Golden Eagles. Athens is now 3-0 in region play, which makes this weeks game a big one for the Tigers. Hartselle is 2-1 in region play, and needs two more region wins to secure a postseason berth.
Hartselle (3-2) at Athens (3-2)
The Golden Eagles are tied with Russellville and Walker for the region lead. Hartselle would have the fourth playoff berth now, but a road trip to Walker awaits four weeks from now, making this game all the more important.
The Tigers got their offense going again last week after losing to Decatur.
Look for the Hartselle offense to pick up where it left off last week…Tigers 28, Golden Eagles 13
Danville (5-0) at Hanceville (3-2)
When the Hawks arrive in Hanceville, they'll be three blocks away from the house my wife Susan and I live in. My neighbors won't like how the Hawks will treat the home team…Hawks 20, Bulldogs 3
Brewer (0-5) at Cullman (2-3)
The Bearcats may be down after losing at home to Athens. The Patriots are looking to end a 18-game losing streak…Bearcats 35, Patriots 21
Priceville (1-4) at Falkville (0-5)
Both teams are looking for their initial region win of the season.
Both teams are in desperate need of a victory to gain some confidence. This is a tough one to pick…Blue Devils 14, Bulldogs 13
Louisiana Tech (3-2) at Auburn (5-0)
Tech is coming off an upset of No. 17 Fresno State, while the Tigers are returning home after smashing Tennessee.
Look for a Tiger letdown, which will make this one closer than expected…Tigers 31, Bulldogs 17
Alabama (3-2) at Kentucky (1-3)
Kentucky lost to Ohio at home, not Ohio State, the University of Ohio. They appear to be the worst team in the SEC.
The Crimson Tide offense misses Brodie Croyle more than anyone could have imagined.
Shula needs a win badly, and Lexington is just the place to find one…Crimson Tide 21, Wildcats 6