Isabella (9-1) wrapped up the regular season on Friday with a 42-6 defeat of county-rival Thorsby (1-9).

With the Mustangs leading 21-6 at halftime, it was big plays in the second half that helped put the game away.

Many of the big plays came by way of special teams, as Cornelius Stacy returned a punt for a touchdown and Hunter Langston brought back another to the Thorsby 1-yard line.

“It’s something that we work on all week in practice,” Isabella head coach Tate Leonard said. “We put an emphasis on it.”

The win brings Isabella’s record on the season to 9-1, a complete turnaround from last season when the Mustangs finished 1-9.

Both defenses were flying to the ball, as Tyler Durham, Michael Mathis and Stacy each intercepted a pass for Isabella.

For the Rebels, Nick Henry had his share of highlight hits that brought the large Thorsby contingent to their feet on several occasions.

“They crowded the box and dared us to throw the ball,” Leonard said. “We played a little flat early on, but then picked it up as the game went along.

Henry also contributed on special teams with a blocked punt.

Twelve different players carried the ball for Isabella, and were led by Austin Brasher and Jarred Campbell who combined for four touchdowns on the ground.

Thanks to their efforts on special teams, Langston led the team with 138 all-purpose yards, while Stacy finished with 123.

The Mustangs host Winterboro in the first round of the state playoffs next Friday, while the loss ends a tough season for Thorsby and its current class of seniors.

“I know it’s frustrating for them, but I’m proud of the effort that they have given,” Thorsby head coach Billy Jackson said. “They did the best that they could in that situation. It’s just a lot to overcome.”