SIGNAL MOUNTAIN EAGLES (4-0, 1-0) at SOUTH PITTSBURG PIRATES (3-0, 1-0)
Tonight, 8 EDT
Last meeting: South Pittsburg won 48-20 last year.
Storyline: Although these are two small schools, this is shaping up as the game of the year in the area. It will at least be the most hyped regular-season game and likely will decide the District 6-A championship before the midway point of the season. Both teams looked poised for deep runs into the playoffs, with 2A’s second-ranked Signal Mountain outscoring opponents by an average of 45-8 and 1A’s No. 1 South Pittsburg whipping its three foes by a 55-5 average.
Players to watch: Signal Mountain quarterback Hogan Whitmire is arguably the area’s top passer and is complemented by a bevy of ball carriers, including speedy Donnie Garner. Linebacker Gervell Morgan also is a punishing runner. South Pittsburg running back Raquis Hale is averaging nearly 150 rushing yards per game, and sophomore Demetric “Little Man” Johnson is a dangerous kick returner with two punts returned for scores. Josh Parker makes up for a lack of size at his hybrid linebacker/safety position with toughness and is the biggest hitter on a stingy defense.