Two of the top teams in the MAIS eight-man division will get together Friday in Gulfport for a heavyweight throwdown.

Tallulah Academy (4-0) and Christian Collegiate Academy (5-0) are two of just four remaining undefeated teams in Class A. Friday’s game is an opportunity for both squads to measure where they stand, and possibly a playoff — or even championship — preview.

“It’s a great opportunity at midseason to see where you’re at. Them jokers are good,” Tallulah coach Bo Barton said. “Unless somebody doesn’t show up and play to their potential, it’s going to be a four-quarter war.”

Tallulah has the highest-scoring offense in the division, at 62.5 points per game. Christian Collegiate has thrived on defense, allowing a total of 14 points all season.

Tallulah has also had a solid defense. Since giving up 52 points to North Sunflower in the season opener, it has allowed a total of 40 in its last three games.

“It’s a great opportunity, because when you look at these guys on film it’s obvious they’re really good,” Barton said.

 

SIA at Franklin Academy

Two-time defending MAIS eight-man champion Sharkey-Issaquena (4-1, 0-0 District 4-A) will begin a crucial run of three consecutive district games tonight at Franklin Academy (3-2, 1-0). The Confederates will play Tensas and undefeated Tallulah Academy during the coming stretch. Four district champions and four wild cards will advance to the eight-man playoff bracket, and a winning streak could lock up a spot early for SIA.

 

Rebul at Calvary Christian

Rebul Academy (3-2) will try to get back on the winning track and match last year’s win total when it takes on hapless Calvary Christian (1-4) on the road tonight. Rebul won four games all of last season, and hasn’t won five since 2008.

 

Manchester at Central Hinds

Despite losing for the first time last week, Central Hinds (3-1) has set itself up nicely for a postseason run. The Cougars are among the top 16 teams in the MAIS Class AAA power point rankings at the halfway point of the season, and can pick up another win in tonight’s District 3-AAA opener against winless Manchester (0-5).

Four of Central Hinds’ last five games are against district opponents.

 

Port Gibson at South Pike

Two struggling programs will try to find their footing when Port Gibson (1-4) takes on South Pike (0-4).

Port Gibson has been outscored 85-6 in its last two games, after notching its first win of the season and losing two close ones to start the season. South Pike was shut out 30-0 by Tylertown last week and has scored a total of 24 points in its first four games.

 

Madison Parish at Lakeview

Madison Parish is 3-0 for the first time since the school opened in 2005, and could be in for a big season. Lakeview (0-3) has yet to win a game. Madison’s opponents so far have a record of 8-23.