By By Jeff Byrd/The Meridian Star
Oct. 10, 2001
With its run of defending champions completed, the Lamar School Raiders can now turn the focus back on making the Academy AAA playoffs. The Raiders can essentially clinch a playoff berth with a win on Friday at Copiah Academy.
The Raiders enter the District 3-AAA contest with a 1-0 league record following a week three win over Central Hinds 33-32. They are 2-3 overall after last week's 28-14 loss to defending AA champion Winston Academy.
Copiah enters the contest with a 1-5 record. They were beaten 34-13 by Manchester in their only District 3-AAA contest, Copiah has scored just 56 points in six games while giving up 179, nearly 30 points per game.
Part of Barnes' optimism was the strong effort given at Winston.
One element that has Barnes pleased is the Raiders' grasp of the passing game.
Quarterback Drew Moffett completed seven of 12 passes for 74 yards at Winston.
Moffett's improvement has been a big catalyst. He leads the team in touchdowns with five. Zac Moore has established himself as a go-to target with 17 catches for 226 yards.
Running back Dylan Anderson keys the ground game with 345 yards rushing on 60 carries. Fullback Cameron Coleman will probably miss one more week before returning.
On defense, Lane Rush, and Moore were singled out for their play. Linebacker Monroe Mayfield is one of the team's top tacklers.
But in order to make that 2-0 step to the playoffs, Barnes said his team must be ready at the start.
Jeff Byrd is a sports writer for the Meridian Star. He can be reached at 693-1551 or by e-mail at j.byrd@themeridianstar.com.