December 7, 2006.

Joe DiMaggio hit safely in 56 straight games in 1941. Less known is that after the streak came to an end, a new one began. DiMaggio hit safely in the next 16 games meaning he had hits in 72 of 73 games.

So let’s add a wrinkle to South Panola’s dynasty in Mississippi football. Let’s tell the story of 2002 when the Tigers were 14-0 and in Jackson playing for a Class 5A state championship. The opponent that day, Wayne County, began its run with an overwhelming victory over preseason No. 1 Vicksburg in the Red Carpet Bowl. The War Eagles were 14-0 as well.

Wayne County defeated South Panola that day handing the Tigers their first defeat of the season.

And last defeat of the next four seasons.