By Myra Bean

Many who saw the 2011 contest between North Panola and South Pontotoc thought North Panola was going to pull off its first win of the season.

In reality, after leading 16-7 at one point, North Panola lost 25-24.

The problem seemed to be a lack of ability to play four full quarters.

That will not be a problem this year, according to Cougar head coach Derek King.

“We have played full, four quarter games this year,” King said. “They remember not finishing last year.”

 South Pontotoc (1-3) is under the field direction of senior quarterback Alex Pannell, who doubles as a defensive back. He is a dual threat player who is a scrambler as well as a passer. He has 278 rushing yard on 74 carries and five touchdowns for the young season to go along with 666 passing yards on 35 of 65 completions with four touchdowns and four interceptions.

“Pannell is their number one playmaker. He has a lot of good slot receivers,” King said.

The main receiver is junior wide receiver/defensive back/linebacker Davius Wilson. Wilson is also a playmaker for South Pontotoc.

Wilson has 12 receptions for 273 yards and two touchdowns.

“Our defense will need to get to the quarterback and pursue well,” King said. “We have to stick to our assignments and go all the way to the whistle.”

King feels good about the game plan the Cougars have for South Pontotoc.

“We need to play a strong game,” he said. “We match up well. Hopefully, this week is normal and will make a much better week of football.”

King was referring to the weather of the last two weeks that is not expected to be a factor in tonight’s game which kicks off at North Panola at 7:30 p.m.