South Delta clinch home playoff game

ANGUILLA, Miss. (VDN) — South Delta High School’s football team has clinched home-field advantage for the first round of the playoffs, which begin in just a few weeks.

The Bulldogs, led by head coach KePatrick Barnes, officially earned the home playoff game last Friday after defeating Riverside High School 34-0.

“We were hoping to finish as No. 1 in our district, but we didn’t accomplish that,” Barnes said. “We did accomplish securing the home playoff game, which I’m proud of.”

The Bulldogs are 6-2 on the season, with four-year starting quarterback Marvin Powell Jr. leading the offense. Powell has already rushed for more than 1,000 yards this year. Barnes credited his offensive and defensive lines for their toughness and consistency.

“If you don’t win in the trenches, you can’t win games, so those guys have carried us throughout the season,” he said.

Defensively, South Delta has been dominant, recording its second shutout of the season last week. Junior defensive end Amari Dunson leads the team with 3.5 sacks and 54 tackles, while Anthony Gentry has a team-high 66 tackles. Kenny Knight has also recorded three interceptions this year.

Offensively, the Bulldogs are averaging more than 22 points per game. Dekevion Miller has over 300 receiving yards, and Vernon Sampson has rushed for more than 300 yards.

Barnes also credited his assistant coaches, who work with both the high school and middle school teams. His staff includes offensive coordinator Eugene Williams and Cameron Washington.

Barnes has been selected to coach in the Magnolia Sports Association All-Star Game, where he will serve as defensive coordinator in the MSA Senior Bowl.

The Bulldogs will travel to face West Bolivar on Friday.