On the surface, Friday night’s “bowl game” between Marlboro County High and Indian Land is just a contest of two teams playing out the season.
But for both coaching staffs, it is a game of pride and trying to set the direction to better times to come.
“I have worked with their head coach (Adam Hastings) and five or six of his assistants. So though the two schools have never met, there is some familiarity,” said MCHS head coach Bobby Collins.
Besides bragging rights between friends, both teams will be trying to finish the season on a positive note.
“Finishing out with a win can help our guys in a variety of ways, especially for the underclassmen,” said Collins.
After a season-ending win, it will be easier to get the younger players in the weight room and starting to build for next season.
Also, a victory would give the Bulldogs a 3 and 4 overall record, a considerably better winning percentage than last year’s 2-9 season.
Region 6-AAA
Camden won the region and will open the playoffs Friday night by hosting Brookland-Cayce.
Lake City claimed second place, including the conference’s other playoff spot. The Panthers will travel to undefeated Gilbert Friday night.
Crestwood (3-3) fell to Sumter last Friday 28-9. That will complete their season.
Lakewood (1-4) will wrap up their year with a “bowl game” at Hilton Head this Friday night.
Manning (0-4) is slated to complete their year against Georgetown Friday night.
Scouting the Warriors
Indian Land enters the final game with some momentum, winning two of their last three.
Last Friday, they romped over winless Fort Mill, 54-7.
Junior quarterback Blake Goode was having a solid season until suffering an injury.
Senior quarterback Caleb Gleason will likely be the signal caller Friday night.
The Warriors operate from a spread formation but run the ball twice as much as pass.
Like the Bulldogs, the Warriors have some issues with depth, especially along the offensive and defensive lines.
Tee it up
The Bulldogs will host the Warriors Friday night, kicking off at 7:00.