The Panthers (9-3) Take On The Rebels (11-1) For A Spot In The TSSAA 5A Semifinals

By Aiden Gallagher

After giving a beatdown to Sevier County last Friday, the Panthers travel to Rebel Stadium to take on the West Rebels Friday night. The two teams met earlier this season with the Rebels coming out on top 24-23 in a overtime thriller. The two teams have developed a rivalry as of late meeting three times in the past two seasons. Tempers flared the last time these teams met and I expect the same thing to happen Friday. Throughout this season West has proven they are tough to beat and Friday will be no different. West has been a thorn in Powell's side leaving the Panthers 0-2 in the last two meetings. Powell has been given another chance to move past the Rebels on Friday night. A win over West would give the Panthers home-field advantage in the Semi-finals. 

Matchup History:

Friday night will be the 18th meeting all-time against the Rebels, with West having a 9-8 series lead all time. The last meeting came only a few weeks ago, Powell lost 24-23 in overtime. This will be the third meeting between the schools this calendar year. These two have seen much of each other recently, which hasn't helped their relationship.

Impact Player:

Powell QB Duece Rodger's status going into Friday night is still unknown and many suspect he will be out with a concussion. This opens the door for Freshman QB Jaylon Benjamin to make his first career start. Benjamin looked great in relief against Sevier County and threw the ball better. Despite throwing a better football, Benjamin lacks the same maneuverability as Rodgers.