Maplesville’s football team will take to the road on Friday in the second round of the Class 1A state playoffs, and the Red Devils will try for a better outcome than their last road playoff game.

The 2012 Maplesville team fell at McIntosh in the third round of the state playoffs, but this year’s team looks special, as the Devils are unbeaten and have wins over Class 2A Sweet Water and Class 4A Jemison.

Still, MHS learned last season not to take any opponent lightly.

“They were the No. 3 team in their region, and their only two losses were to teams that are still in the playoffs,” Hubbert said about Geneva County (9-2).

In coach Eric Reynolds’ second season, the Bulldogs have won their last four games against 1A competition by an average score of 35-10.

Hubbert said Geneva uses a Wing T attack to get the ball to talented back T.J. Green, often with fullback Nick Carroll leading the way with a block.

Green and Carroll are also standouts on the Geneva defense from their linebacker positions.

Maplesville also must overcome the 150-mile trip to Hartford. The Red Devils can spend the time during the bus ride thinking about how this playoff trip will be different than the last.

Hubbert sees a difference in the team even since the start of the season.

“We’re doing a better job with our preparation and execution,” he said. “We’re doing a better job on defense as far as assignments. The offensive line is doing a better job making adjustments.”