Beat Clarke Central in Athens and they're Region 8-AAAA champs. Lose and they finish second.
The Bulldoggs (8-1, 8-1) will host a playoff game no matter the outcome, but, after several lean years and with some talented seniors leaving once the season is over, Allison said they want to get that region title for them.
"That would be a great way for these seniors to go out. They have worked very hard the last two years and have earned everything they've gotten this year," Allison said. "We be putting a little extra pressure on ourselves to win (the region title) but you don't get the opportunity that often and for the seniors this is their last shot at one."
There's even more may be on the line for Clarke Central (8-1, 8-1) who would drop to third in the region and have to play on the road for virtually the entire playoffs.
Clarke Central coach William Devane says they realize what's at stake.
"We lost at Cedar and knew that would be a pivotal game. We're in (the playoffs) no matter what but we sure would like to play at home. This is a great advantage for us and need everything we can get. It's hard to win a championship playing every game on the road."
Winder holds the tiebreaker over Cedar Shoals, who plays at winless jackson County friday night, if the two teams finish tied atop the region. The Bulldoggs beat Cedar 11-10 two weeks ago.
Allison says the seniors, led by quarterback Tyler Wilcher, running back Bakari Griggs and fullback Scott Harris, and senior linebacker Travis Thurmond, are the key to beating Clarke Central.
"The seniors have stepped up all year and this is the time they need be the leaders. They've done it all year and I don't see any reason why they won't Friday night," Allison said.
Clarke Central, which is coming off a 3-0 win over Salem last week and has won three straight, is still averaging 23.9 points a game despite the low output. The Gladiators are led by Nelson Browner at quarterback.
"We have to stop Browner or its going to be a long night," Allison said.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2003/11/168702