NORTH CARROLLTON – J.Z. George High School hosted Yazoo County Friday night for the Jaguars’ final game of the year. The Jaguars, hoping to give the fans a win in their final home game, came up short falling to the Yazoo County Panthers 49-6.
The Jaguars honored this year’s seniors prior to kickoff at Farris Jenkins Field. The Jaguars were led by senior running back/defensive back Tyus Thomas, senior defensive end Josh Johnson, senior tight end and defensive end Zay Hill, senior lineman and punter Josh Wiggins, senior lineman Terek Townsend, and senior offensive and linebacker Bailey Coggins.
In the first quarter, it was a defensive battle with both teams scoreless. The Jaguars punted on their first possession, but Yazoo County fumbled the ball on the return, giving the Jaguars great field position. George did not capitalize on the turnover by Yazoo County, but they continued to play stout defense, recovering another fumble by the Panthers.
In the second quarter, the Panthers were first on the board with a long run and a successful PAT, bring the score 7-0. Yazoo county got back on the board again with another touchdown run, but would fail the extra point, bringing the score 13-0. Late in the second, the Jaguars would get its lone touchdown of the game from sophomore Quientirus Purnell on a long run. The Jaguars would not convert on the two-point conversion and went into the half with some momentum trailing 13-6.
During half time, the crowd was treated to a great show by the J.Z. George Marching Band, dance team, and cheerleaders. The half time performance was dedicated to all those who have been affected by breast cancer and those fighting against it now.
The band moved with grace across the field as they played their instruments for all to hear during the night. The cheerleaders cheered loudly for the crowd as the dance team moved to the groove. The senior band members are Olivia Taylor, Wayne Clunan, Hunter Wilson, Jamey Turner, Deavian Sawyer, and Cortez Hundson. The senior dance and cheerleaders are Jessica Liddell, Hannah Kellum, Kristina Horton, and Elana Bolanos
Yazoo County dominated the game in the second half, scoring on long runs while racking up yards on offense on the way to their 49-6 win.
The Jaguar defense brought the bright spot for the Jaguars Friday night by forcing three turnovers and giving the offense opportunities.
The loss may not have been the result the Jaguars wanted on Senior Night, but they still have one more opportunity to pick up another win.
“It was just a down year,” Coach Ben Burton said. “They’re one of the winningest classes in the past ten years.”
The Jaguars will travel to Amanda Elzy Friday for the final game of the year, and are looking to send the seniors out with a win and set a tone for the Jaguars for next season.
