Golden Tigers gearing up for Parker
By Staff
Mike Self FCT Sports Editor
Russellville's high-powered offense may have finally met its match.
The top-ranked Golden Tigers are averaging 40.4 points per game this season, and the 34 points they scored last week in a first-round win over Gadsden was their lowest total since being held to 13 in the season-opener against Deshler.
Points don't figure to come quite as easily on Friday as the Golden Tigers (10-1) host Parker (9-2) in the second round of the Class 5A playoffs.
The Thundering Herd has allowed an average of only 6.8 points per game, with only two opponents reaching double figures.
Parker has not allowed a point since Week Nine, shutting out Wenonah, Carver-Birmingham and first-round playoff opponent Fort Payne over the past three weeks.
Swindall emphasized taking care of the football as the Golden Tigers' biggest key to victory.
Junior quarterback Jeremy Helms finished 12-of-22 against Gadsden for 218 yards and two touchdowns. He has now thrown for more than 3,000 yards and 31 touchdowns on the season.
Senior receiver Jarrell Nesmith had a huge first half against Gadsden, hauling in four passes for 141 yards, including a 68-yard touchdown.
On the defensive side of the ball, Swindall also stressed fundamentals.
Kickoff for Friday's game is scheduled for 7 p.m.
