The defensive-minded Provine Rams come to “The Swamp” Friday night to battle the improving Vicksburg Gators in the Region 2-5A opener for both clubs.

The Rams enter with a 2-1 record after bashing Forest Hill 41-0. Running back Anton Taylor rushed for 211 yards and four touchdowns to lead the effort.

But for VHS coach Alonzo Stevens, getting a handle on the Rams’ tough defense will be a key for his Gators.

“Provine is a dangerous team with a lot of tradition. We’ve got to be ready to play because they are always a hard-nosed team,” Stevens said.

Through their first three games, the Rams have allowed just 24 points. Vicksburg, meanwhile, has allowed 78, including 30 in its only loss to Hazlehurst (30-14) and 34 in a 40-34 win over Natchez.

“Provine puts its best athletes on defense and then they hope to do enough on offense to win the game,” Stevens said. “They’re going to put eight or nine guys in the box and we have got to handle it.”

Vicksburg is coming off an impressive 30-6 win at Southaven last week. Willis McGowan returned a punt 47 yards for a touchdown and then added a 92-yard interception return for another score. John Howard kicked a 35-yard field goal and kept the Chargers pinned down with three punts inside the 10.

“We know Provine has a good defense but we’ve got one too,” said McGowan. “We’re coming into this game like an underdog, but if we play hard we can come out on top.”

A key for the Gators will be to back the Rams off on defense. Through four games, the Gators are averaging 154 yards per game rushing and 70 passing.

Stevens would like for the passing game to improve behind sophomore quarterback Stanton Price (22-of-57 for 280 yards).

“We’ve got to get better there but I think with the receivers we’ve got like Delmon Robinson, Tyler Wells, Vernon Wolfe and Jordan Henry we can do some things,” Stevens said. “Our offense has done a good job of holding on to the ball and not making mistakes, but now, I think we’re ready to open things up.”

The Gator defense will see some added time from New Orleans evacuee Ryan Walker (5-11, 260).

“He’s going to play a whole lot this week at both center and nose guard. He’s a go-getter and has a lot of strength to go with his agility,” Stevens said.

Playing at home is a factor Stevens hopes will play a part in winning the region opener.

“We feel if we can take care of our home field, we can be in the thick of the region race,” Stevens said.