“He has a presence when he’s out there that breeds confidence in everybody around him. He’s a great leader as well as a good player, so we definitely missed him. Still, that’s no excuse to not play well every week.”

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WHO WILL WIN?

Jemison let off the gas after building a big lead over Oak Grove last week. It’s the perfect teaching opportunity for the coaching staff: the team plays well and improves over the previous week, but there are enough mistakes to bring up so that the players continue to work hard. The Panthers will provide more evidence Friday that they are becoming a dangerous team.

Pick: Jemison | Picks record: 3-5

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ALSO FRIDAY NIGHT

Autaugaville (0-2) at Billingsley (0-2)

One of these teams will earn its first win. It’ll be the home team. Pick: Billingsley

Clay Co. Chr. at Chilton Chr. (1-1)

CCA might have still been riding a championship high during a loss last week. Pick: Chilton Chr.

Shelby Co. (0-2) at Chilton Co. (1-1)

Chilton Co. should shake off the disappointment from a close loss last week. Pick: Chilton Co.

Prattville Christian (1-1) at Isabella (1-1)

After the season opener, the schedule is getting tougher for Isabella. Pick: Prattville Chr.

Sunshine (0-2) at Maplesville (2-0)

Maplesville has won four straight against Sunshine, and it hasn’t been close. Pick: Maplesville

Verbena (0-2) at Notasulga (1-1)

The Red Devils are hurting. Not a good time for a road trip to play a solid team. Pick: Notasulga

Central-Coosa (0-2) at Thorsby (1-1)

The Rebels should get back on track after a close region road loss. Pick: Thorsby