There wasn't a lot of overall movement in the power rankings this week, but with 12 teams changing position, that doesn't mean the week lacked for thrills. Part of the action? A towering 119-point combined score for Velma Jackson and Raleigh.
No Stoppin 'Em
Velma Jackson has been an offensive powerhouse for four straight weeks after the team lit up the scoreboard again last week. It didn't have too many spare points, but it still walked away with a 63 - 56 win. It especially relied on senior Antavious Willis, who rushed for 135 yards and scored on two receptions, and junior Diallo Thompson, who threw for 272 yards and four touchdowns. The combined 119 points was the most of any game featuring a power-ranked team.
This Week's Big Showdown
One of the hottest tickets last week involved the clash between Northwest Rankin (1st in the power rankings) and Madison Central (3rd). Even if it wasn't a dominant performance, Northwest Rankin beat Madison Central 32 - 28. Senior Jamari Jones was a big part of the win as his strong performance led the charge (he tossed the ball for 315 yards and four TDs).
Game of Inches
Mendenhall managed to bank 114 more yards than its opponent Quitman last week, and going the extra distance paid off. Mendenhall won a game that couldn't get any closer, slipping by Quitman 22 - 21. Mendenhall found its leader in an underclassman: Reggie Mclaurin earned two touchdowns and 106 yards rushing the ball, which was enough to make him one of the team's best players. The razor-thin margin made this game the most thrilling one of the week.
Next Week's Big Game
The big showdown in the power rankings this week is between Clinton (13th in the MaxPreps state rankings) and Starkville (2nd). This will be the second home game in a row for Clinton. It and Starkville can't both win again this week, so we'll learn on Friday which team falters and which extends its success.
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