Dragons look to take advantage of guests

JEFFERSON - One win can make a difference.

At least, Jefferson football coach Bill Navas and the Dragons sure hope so as they prepare for Heard County in the two teams' first round Class A playoff game at Jefferson Friday night.

Last year, the Dragons finished 5-5 and were the fourth seed from Region 8-A, which earned them a shot at Landmark Christian, who was ranked in the top five at the time. The result was a 48-7 drubbing at the hands of the War Eagles.

This year, the Dragons come in 6-4 and the No. 2 seed out of Region 8-A, which earns them a home playoff game.

"It's huge for us," Navas said. "We've played very well at home, except for the Commerce game, and the whole town is excited about it. Playing at home in the playoffs is a big advantage."

While the Braves come in just 5-5, they won three of their last four games to get into the playoffs.

"They are a very dangerous team," Navas said. "They're very athletic and have a lot of speed on both sides of the ball. It'll be a big challenge for us."

Jefferson won four of its last five, including a gritty 13-9 win over Athens Academy last week, for second place in the region.

"We played a bad, bad game against Commerce and had to wait two weeks to get that taste out of our mouths. To win last week was a huge confidence boost to the whole team. I expect us to come out and play well," Navas said.

The Dragons have averaged 27 points a game over their last five games while giving up just 13 points a game. Take out the 35 by Commerce and they've allowed just 7.5 points in their last four wins.

"Our defense has played very well most of the season. That's one of the big keys to the game. Can we stop their ground game. If we can, I like our chances," Navas said.