The Parklane Pioneers (7-2) will not make the MPSA AAA playoffs this season following recent losses to Jackson Prep and Madison Ridgeland Academy.
So Friday night’s season finale at Lamar (7-2) is being approached by Pioneer head coach Bo Milton as the Pioneers “lone playoff” game.
“We have a chance Friday night to finish 8-2 and end an already good season on a great note,” Milton said. “Lamar has lost only two games, that being to Jackson Prep and Jackson Academy and will probably win the Academy Class One AAA State Championship, so this will be a great challenge for our team to end the season on.”
The Pioneers have a long bus trip to Meridian to deal with, as well as a Lamar team that has looked at times unstoppable on offense. Milton describes this team as one that looks to pass, pass and maybe run.
“This Lamar team will throw it first and then throw it second and then will mix in a little run,” Milton said. “They have excellent skill players, and their junior quarterback will be as good as any we have faced up to this point. We have to play our best game defensively of the year to have a chance on Friday night.”
The one mainstay has been the Pioneer defense this year, and look for Parklane’s defensive unit to play with the same enthusiasm and fire as in recent weeks.
Offensively, the Pioneers have been plagued with turnovers — especially in the second half.
Milton says that can’t happen this week if the Parklane looks to pick up win No. 8.
“Lamar has what I would call a bend-but-don’t-break defense,” Milton said. “They have good team speed and will challenge you, but (they) have given up some points. We have to take advantage of our opportunities, and have to play sound offensively because they will score some points. We have to be able to match them and make plays.”
After last year’s 5-5 finish, the Pioneers and Milton are excited they have improved a season later. However, Milton knows how important this game is, and how his seniors’ time is dwindling at Parklane. He would love to see his first group of seniors go out on top.
“I told our kids the other day the good thing about this game is you can go out on top,” Milton said. “As much as you strive for the playoffs, once you’re there everyone’s season ends with a loss except the champion. We have a chance for these seniors to go out on top and finish their careers here with a win.”
