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Screven, SEB meet again in rivalry
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    Playoff implications aside, Screven County is looking at today’s game against Southeast Bulloch for what it is — a rivalry.
    The Yellow Jackets lead the series against SCHS 12-11, and while the Gamecocks (6-3, 4-2 Region 3-AA) have assured themselves a spot in the playoffs, they can grab the No. 3 seed with a win today. Not to mention the fact that the storied series between the two teams could be evened out on Senior Night in Sylvania.
    Most importantly, however, Screven coach Pat Collins wants to make sure his Gamecocks can bounce back from last week’s loss to Swainsboro.
    “Our guys have always answered the bell,” said Collins. “We had a setback last week, but our guys have always gotten up off the mat. That’s what we want to do again, and I will be disappointed if we do anything else.”
    Under first-year coach John Kenny, Southeast Bulloch brings a new look to the table. The spread offense implemented by Kenny is new to fans in Brooklet, but Collins is confident, having faced similar offenses throughout the season. The x-factor, said Collins, is the amount of playmakers in the SEB offense.
    “When you talk about Tharon Davis, he’s a tremendous running back with tremendous vision. When you look at number two, (wide receiver) Greg Wright, he’s just a tremendous athlete. And then their quarterback Joe Wilson from what we’ve seen has just gotten better and better and better.
    “They’ve got some weapons, and they’re doing a great job. I know John Kenny, and he’s a good coach. He’s always done a good job wherever he’s been, and he’ll do a tremendous job (at SEB).”
    The transition has been tough for Southeast Bulloch. The Yellow Jackets (2-7, 1-4) have had a roller coaster of a season, and gained some momentum last week picking up their first region win — a 14-13 Senior-Night victory over the Metter Tigers.
    Kenny and the Yellow Jackets will need for the momentum to carry over into tonight’s rivalry game.
    The Jackets look to contain the potent rushing attack of the Gamecocks. Led by running back Travis Coles and quarterback MJ Johnson, SEB will have to contain an SCHS attack that comes at the defense in a number of different ways.
    The Gamecocks aren’t afraid to utilize Johnson’s arm either, so Southeast will have to stay honest on defense to prevent getting burned through the air.
    With SEB out of the playoff picture, SEB still has a lot riding on the game. After another coaching scheme and a brand new offensive attack, they look to end the season on a high note. Regardless of the 2007 record, Kenny has seen the week-to-week improvement in his team
    Both squads have a lot to play for, and the rivalry game will kick off at 7:30 p.m. in Sylvania.
    
    Matt Yogus can be reached at (912) 489-9404.