The Porters Chapel Eagles still have some work to do before next Friday’s season-opener at Heidelberg. For now, at least, they seem to be right on schedule.

The Eagles returned to the practice field Monday to work out a few minor flaws after an impressive performance in a scrimmage at University Christian on Friday.

PCA scored five touchdowns in 25 offensive plays and held University Christian without a point in the same number of snaps. PCA also scored a defensive touchdown when Cole Smith returned an interception 102 yards.

Smith also caught three of Hayden Hales’ five TD passes on the day. Michael Busby and Spencer Pell caught one each.

&#8220We were pleased for the most part, but we still have a long way to go,” PCA coach Randy Wright said. &#8220We need to fine tune our short passing game, our blocking schemes when we pull, and our defense a little bit.”

Although it sounds like Wright is poormouthing his team a bit, some of his concern may be well-founded. The Eagles had only 18 players dressed out for the scrimmage, and were missing five starters. Two of them, transfers Cody Ferguson, a running back, and lineman Drew Henson also sat out while some academic eligibility issues are cleared up, Wright said. He hopes to have them on the field by the start of the regular season.

&#8220We’re kind of like Ole Miss. We’re waiting on a couple of correspondence courses,” Wright said with a laugh. &#8220That’s definitely two kids that’ll be starters for us, probably both ways, and we need to get them eligible as soon as possible.”

In the meantime, PCA’s preparation marches on. Wright said his biggest goal this week was to get the team’s work in during practice while keeping his players healthy.

The ones on the field will get another test Thursday when the Eagles travel to Yazoo City for a jamboree at Manchester Academy. PCA will play Manchester and Carroll Academy in one 15-minute quarter apiece. Wright said the preseason games are a big help in preparing for the season.

&#8220They definitely help us get ready. The biggest thing is getting through them with no injuries,” Wright said. &#8220Getting to play a few plays against another team will help us get ready for the first game.”