The Magnolia Panthers set several goals this football season and one was to reach the Class 5A state football playoffs.
They are in a position to move closer to postseason play, but must pick up their first 5A-South Conference win on the road Friday night.
"This is a position you want your team in. We're nearing the end of the season and still have a lot to be playing for," said Magnolia head coach John Panter.
Only the top four teams from each conference will advance to the state playoffs, which start Nov. 11.
Watson Chapel, White Hall and Hot Springs Lakeside share the top spot with identical 4-1 records.
Magnolia, De Queen, Hot Springs and Camden Fairview are in a four-way tie for fourth with the same 2-3 marks.
"Our most important game is Friday against De Queen. We must go out, execute and play at our best," said Panter.
The Panthers have had trouble stopping the Leopards' running game the past two years.
Last season, Magnolia fell 14-7 and dropped a 21-20 decision in the 2014 season at De Queen. The Panthers went for the win during the final minute, but were unable to convert the two-point conversion.
"Defensively, we have to tackle well," said Panter, giving some things that Magnolia must do against De Queen.
"We have to maintain our leverage and establish the line of scrimmage. That's what they are going to try and do, which is maintain the line of scrimmage on our side of the ball," said the coach. "The bottom line is we have to play well up front and play physical, and make sure we set the line of scrimmage on their side of the ball."
Though the Panthers have not won on the road since the season opener at Crossett, Panter said that thought has not entered his players' minds.
"We go out every week trying to execute our game plan and take care of ourselves. Friday night will be no exception. We will go out, fight hard and look to win," he added.
Reflecting back to last week, Panter said the Panthers know what they are capable of doing.
The Magnolia defense prevented Watson Chapel from scoring from the 8, 11 and 13 yard lines.
In fact, the defense forced the Wildcats to turn the ball over on downs seven times and came away with two interceptions.
"There were many good things in that game, but it was great to see our players not get frustrated. They competed the entire night and came out on top," said Panter.
Magnolia, missing a chance to win the game in regulation by throwing an interception from the 2-yard line, got the 21-14 victory in overtime.
Sophomore running back Kadyn Roach has now rushed for more than 100 yards in four games this season.
Week 9
Magnolia
vs.
De Queen
The 5A-South
Watson Chapel..................................5-3, 4-1
White Hall.........................................7-1, 4-1
Hot Springs Lakeside.......................4-4, 4-1
De Queen..........................................3-5, 2-3
Hot Springs.......................................2-6, 2-3
Magnolia...........................................3-5, 2-3
Camden Fairview.............................3-5, 2-3
Hope...................................................0-8, 0-5
Friday's games
White Hall at Hope; Camden Fairview at Hot Springs; Hot Springs Lakeside at Watson Chapel.
Last week's scores
Magnolia 21, Watson Chapel 14 (OT); HS Lakeside 48, De Queen 14; Camden Fairview 42, Hope 21; White Hall 44, Hot Springs 9.
The Last Time
Magnolia - 24
De Queen - 21
For the first time in a long time, the Panthers are in the playoff hunt with two regular season games remaining. They have not won on the road since the start of the season, but must play with an attitude Friday night.
Attitude and aggressive play on both sides of the ball are keys for Magnolia. The Panthers must also tackle well and avoid mistakes. The smell of the playoffs will make Magnolia hungry for the win. Look for a two-point conversion or field goal to make the difference.
The Rankings
OVERALL
Fayetteville..................7-1
No. Little Rock..........8-0
Greenwood.................8-0
Springdale Har-ber..6-2
Bentonville..................6-2
Pulaski Academy.......7-1
Jonesboro......................7-1
Russellville..................7-1
FS Northside...............5-2
Bryant.........................6-2
Others receiving votes: Pine Bluff 9, Wynne 6.
Class 6A
Greenwood.................8-0
Jonesboro....................7-1
Russellville..................7-1
Pine Bluff....................5-2
West Memphis............6-2
Class 5A
Pulaski Academy........7-1
Wynne........................8-0
Sylvan Hills.................7-1
Morrilton.....................3-5
Greenbriar...................7-1
Others receiving votes: LR McClellan 7, Alma 3.