Prep defense dominates in win over JA

Jackson Prep dominated Jackson Academy in a matchup of undefeated rivals on night, rolling to a 35-10 win to move to 4-0 on the season.

The defense was the story of the night for the Patriots, holding the Jackson Academy offense to 194 total yards on the night.

“I thought our defense played really well, we made it really tough on them running the ball,” Jackson Prep Head Coach Doug Goodwin said. “Our run defense forced them to throw the ball, which we did a good job of defending. I'm really proud of our defense.”                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

Jackson Prep was in command from the start, putting together a quick-strike, three-play scoring drive on their first possession, with Parker Puckett throwing his first of two first half touchdowns.

The offensive momentum continued throughout the rest of the first half for the Patriots, taking a 21-0 lead into the halftime break. 

Jackson Prep would continue to keep their foot on the gas, with Puckett throwing his third touchdown of the night to extend the Patriot lead and a 21-yard rushing touchdown by Major Quin in the fourth to stave off any hope of a Jackson Academy comeback attempt and securing a 35-10 victory.

Quin was one of the stars in Jackson Prep’s win, playing almost every snap on offense, defense, and special teams. He finished with five catches for 71 yards and a touchdown receiving, four carries for 47 yards and a touchdown rushing, and made three tackles, all while playing lockdown coverage and returning kicks on special teams. 

“He played just about every snap for us tonight, he’s really good for us at corner on defense and is an integral part of our offense and special teams,” Goodwin said. “He was the all-around district player for a reason last year and is just a really good player.”

This was the 59th meeting on the football field between these two programs, with Jackson Prep now leading the all-time series 44-15, which could mean the 60th matchup in this rivalry could come in the postseason if these two teams were to meet in the postseason.

“It’s a big rivalry game. A lot of these guys live beside each other and go to church together, so it means a lot to the community from that standpoint,” Goodwin said. “It doesn’t change our approach or the way we prepare compared to any other game on our schedule.”

Jackson Prep will travel to face off against Parklane Academy next week, while Jackson Academy will look to bounce back in a home matchup with Lamar.