Defense steps up in victory for Chargers

The smile on Oxford defensive back D.J. Blake’s face told the story of the Chargers’ 26-19 win over Lake Cormorant Friday night. Blake was a major factor in why the Chargers earned the important Region 1-5A win, as was several other defenders.

Oxford’s defense definitely made the difference in the win as it forced four second-half turnovers by the Gators (5-4, 2-3), including three on their final three possessions of the game. (October 25, 2010, Page 3B)

Playoff seeding on the line tonight

Important region games are on tap for all three area high school football teams tonight. The No. 1 ranked Lafayette Commodores have an opportunity to not only remain perfect on the season and win 10 or more games again this year, but wrap up the region title with a win at Tunica-Rosa Fort.

Oxford will try to keep pace and finish at least third in Region 1-5A with a win at Lake Cormorant. Water Valley, meanwhile, hosts Winona in an important Region 2-3A game that will go a long way in figuring out which team finishes second or third in the region.

Kickoff for all three games is set for 7 p.m. Lafayette’s game can be heard locally on 93.7 FM. Oxford will be broadcast on 95.5 FM, while the Blue Devils can be heard on 105.5 FM. (October 22, 2010, Page 7A)

Hill expecting to get a test from Gators

An explosive offense and a defense that uses several different wrinkles to gain success is what the Oxford Chargers will be facing when they travel to take on the Lake Cormorant Gators Friday night.

Oxford bounced back from its second loss in Region 2-4A play with a home win over Hernando last week. The Chargers (5-3 overall, 2-2 in the region) have three games left on the year and they need to win at least two to secure a third-place position in the upcoming 5A playoffs. (October 21, 2010, Page 8)