In the Class 7A Regional Semifinals on Friday night the Columbia Tigers will take on the Tallahassee Lincoln Trojans. The Tigers defeated the Trojans on the road at the beginning of the season, 23-14, and will look to walk out with the “W” again in the playoffs.
On offense, Columbia averages 167 yards passing and 269 yards rushing per game. Junior running back Kamario Bell leads the team in rushing with 98 yards per game and 15 touchdowns on the season. Senior wide receiver Dallon Washington leads the Tigers in receiving with 91 yards per game and 9 touchdowns this season.
The Tigers don’t slow down on defense, averaging 76 tackles per game, with 39 sacks and 15 interceptions on the season. Senior middle linebacker Laqavious Paul leads the defense with 115 tackles and 16 sacks.
Head coach Brian Allen attributes the team’s success and ability to play so strong to the practice schedule. The team will simulate a game day experience during practices to get the players ready for Friday nights, making the game almost seem easier.
Looking at the opponent, Tallahassee Lincoln has been solid on both sides of the ball as well.
On offense, the Trojans average 192 yards receiving and 112 yards rushing per game. Senior running back Denzel Washington leads the team in rushing with 43 yards per game. Senior wide receiver Fred Daughtry leads the team in receiving with 63 yards per game.
Defensively, Tallahassee Lincoln averages 51 tackles per game with 16 sacks and 7 interceptions on the season. Senior defensive back Vincent Johnson leads the Trojans with 60 tackles this season.
Columbia will visit Tallahassee Lincoln on November 20th, with kickoff set for 7:30.