Jackson Prep opened up the 2017 season with solid performance against East Rankin Academy on Friday, August 18. Coming into this new campaign, it was unclear who would step up and fill the important positions that were left vacant after last years seniors graduated. Positions on the offensive line, receiving core and defensive backfield were up for grabs and it was clear that a core group new seniors were ready to rise up. 

It opened up with a long kick-off return from RB Jerrion Ealy and the show was on from there. Chance Lovertich lit up the sky and Jerrion Ealy, along with Jack Gideon dominated the ground game through the first two quarters. Ealy had four rushing touchdowns and decent number of reception yards. Jack Gideon reached nearly 120 yards on just 7 carries. It was clear that Prep would have no problem putting points on the board, but would have trouble keeping the other team out of the end zone.

The Prep defense is known for its trait of suffocating offenses in the past due to their experience and talent, but this year may be a different story. While the defense is filled with skilled, knowledgeable players, they do not quite have the experience that players possessed in years before. It will be interesting to watch tis group of young men find their roles during the game and progress throughout the season to perform at their maximum capabilities.

At the ending buzzard, Prep knocked off East Ranking Academy 42-14. Football looks to Washington School this next week in hopes for extending their record to (2-0).