By By Chandler Myers
Battle lines will be drawn and fans will take sides Friday night in the annual battle between the Escambia County Blue Devils and the T.R. Miller Tigers.
The Blue Devils (0-0, 0-0) travel to Brewton this year for the rivalry game with revenge on their mind asa they hope to avenge last year’s close 22-21 loss to the Tigers.
Last week, Escambia County hosted the W.S. Neal Eagles in a preseason jamboree game in which fans saw them rout the Eagles 32-7.
The Tigers (0-0, 0-0) come into the game coming off of a 27-7 preseason win over the defending Class 3A state champions, the Leeds Green Wave, and are looking to begin a winning streak against Atmore’s team.
Blue Devils head coach Kyle Davis said this week’s game is always worth paying to watch.
The focus for the Blue Devils this year is to not turn the ball over or give Miller any opportunities.
Davis said turnovers are the reason his team lost last season.
Offensively, for the Blue Devils to stay in the game they must execute every play.
Davis said picking up yards and turning them into first downs is what will help his team.
On defense, Escambia County will have to be on their toes and keep the Tigers down when they reach third down situations.
Davis said the defense has to play strong like they did last week and not give up the big play.
One strength the Blue Devils will have this week is having every player eligible.
Davis said three more players are now on the roster, which helps with depth and experience.
The Blue Devils and Miller kick off Friday at 7 p.m. at T.R. Miller High School in Brewton.