After compromising three consecutive losses, the Pearl River Central Blue Devils silenced the critics by winning the past two games in district play. Now, the Blue Devils hope to keep its first winning streak of the season alive as they travel to Pascagoula to take on the Panthers Friday night.

Throughout the season, the Blue Devils scored an average of 32.6 points per game. However, over the past two games, the Blue Devils scored an average of 50 points, hitting an offensive stride at the perfect time to fight for a spot in the playoffs.

PRC has three crucial games left on its schedule against Pascagoula, Hattiesburg and Picayune—who are all tied for first place in the 5A Region District—standing in its way. With a district record of 2-2, the Blue Devils could find a way into the postseason after each of these four teams play one another. With an opportunity to beat three of those teams, PRC has the potential to salvage the season.

The road to the playoffs for PRC starts in Pascagoula as the Panthers’ run-heavy offense attempts to block the Blue Devils’ path to the postseason.

Last week, Hattiesburg ended Pascagoula’s four-game winning streak in a 49-14 bout. At the same time, the Blue Devils mounted its first winning streak.

The Blue Devils have a coveted running back unit. Senior Michael Tatman leads the Blue Devils with 563 rushing yards on 78 carries this season. His quickness and ability to run around defenders has resulted in six touchdowns. Unlike Tatman, PRC’s Louis Reece specializes in running north to south, through anyone in his path. His 547 yards on 101 carries and six touchdowns compliment Tatman’s efforts, which can make the Devils hard to defend against.

Diante Lenior has become the last piece to the Blue Devils’ backfield after being introduced to the offense in the third game of the season. The versatile athlete has 554 yards on 60 carries this season and leads the team with eight rushing touchdowns. Also, Lenior has 27 receptions for 532 yards and six touchdown catches.

These three running backs represent the three prongs on the Blue Devils’ trident, penetrating almost any defense at will.

As for Pascagoula, they rely on a strong running game as well, with eight different players rushing into the end zone this season. Leading the team is Reginald Hunter who has 568 total rushing yards and tumbled across the goal line seven times this season.

Tied for first place in the district with a 3-1 record, Pascagoula hosts the 2-2 Blue Devils in a Friday clash at 7 p.m.