By Staff
Charles Prince, Sports Editor
You saw them all season long, but you really didn't notice them.
The Tiger offense has scored so often this year, most people haven't noticed the defense. Those who did didn't like what they saw.
One Friday afternoon, a Hartselle resident brought in his choices for the weekly Pigskin Picks. While in our office, he causally told me he didn't think the Tigers had a defense at all.
It was the week after Hartselle surrendered 35 points to Russellville.
Times have really changed. Since then the Tigers' defense has served notice it can be a force.
The Hartselle stop unit has allowed only eight points in the last 10 quarters of play. Since halftime of the Cullman game, the Tigers' "D" has nine shutout quarters of play.
The emergence of the defense couldn't have come at a better time-the playoffs are only a week away. The Tigers' "D" will need to come up big in the postseason if this team is going to challenge for a title.
Hartselle (7-2) at Florence (3-6)
This week the Tigers face a Florence team, which has played some of the best teams in the state. Hartselle needs a win to keep their momentum heading into the playoffs. Look for the Tigers to bring old "Moe" back home with them for next week's game…Tigers 34, Falcons 10
Danville (8-1) at Speake (1-8)
The Hawks can finish off a nine-win regular season for the first time in history. Danville fans shouldn't worry that the team will be looking ahead to next week's playoff game…Hawks 45, Bobcats 0
Priceville (2-7) at West Limestone (2-7)
Here's a battle of two teams trying to finish on a high note. The Bulldogs haven't given up, despite several tough losses…Wildcats 24, Bulldogs 21
JB Pennington (5-4) at Falkville (0-9)
The Tigers qualified for the state playoffs last week in Class 3A. The Blue Devils have fought hard in spite of their winless record. They're hoping to avoid an 0-10 season, but I don't think they can in Blountsville…Tigers 20, Blue Devils 13
Fairview (1-8) at Brewer (1-8)
Both of these teams started the year 0-8 and won home games last week. Brewer is known for their streaks, I think they strated a winning streak last week…Patriots 24, Aggies 14
Mississippi State (3-5) at Alabama (5-3)
The Bulldogs come to Tuscaloosa having won two straight.
They've posted 70 points the past two weeks. But, this week they face one of the best defenses in the SEC.
The Crimson Tide is looking to get bowl eligible. Can Shula's troops overcome a rash of injuries and get their sixth win? I think they can…Crimson Tide 24, Bulldogs 7