The Mendenhall Tigers have had a rough start to the season, but it should be expected after playing two state champions and a third round playoff team from the previous year. Friday saw another tough night at the office during their 46-12 loss to the Jefferson Davis County Jaguars.
The Tigers’ best play of the game came during the first quarter on a 68 yard touchdown pass to Walter No-No Owens. The Tigers were able to move the ball to the goal line for a second time in the first quarter, but the drive ended following a dropped touchdown pass in the endzone. That signified the beginning of the end, and the turnovers came fast and furious. The Jaguars fielded a fast and aggressive defensive front that regularly beat the Tiger offensive line for sacks. Those sacks eventually led to fumbles and inefficient play by the Tiger offense. Turnovers turned to points for the Jaguars and the game got out of hand fast.
Defensively the Tigers struggled out of the gate. The Jaguars were able to move the ball with relative ease throughout the first quarter and scored touchdowns on offense, defense and special teams. At the end of the first quarter the Jaguars led 21-6.
The score was 40-6 at halftime, but the Tigers came out after the break and continued to compete. Another positive came for the Tigers late in the fourth quarter in the form of a late rushing touchdown by TJ Hobbs to improve the final score to 46-12.
There were no excuses made by the coaches or players, but there was a demand for toughness. Several coaches echoed that the players have to find an edge and play with more grit.
Offensive Coordinator Darius Wren said, “We were not making the necessary plays to win the game. Our offense has to execute better.”
Defensive Coordinator Derrick Jenkins said, “There are no excuses. I give all props to JDC for doing what champions do. Our guys have to get a little tougher and learn how to fight through adversity.”
Head Coach Chuckie Allen said, “We have to fight a little more. We’re going to keep at it and find some toughness; that’s essential to our success moving forward.”
The second half of the season begins Friday with district play. The Tigers will be on the road against the undefeated Newton County Cougars. This is the first consequential game of the season for the young Tigers as they search for the next step to move their team forward.
