VIDALIA — Switching to a two-platoon system is foreign territory for the (0-6) Vidalia Vikings, but head coach Jeff Hancock thinks it’s improved his team greatly.

Since the football program began at Vidalia, players have played on both sides of the ball, but Hancock believes the two-platoon change has beneffited the team.

“It’s made things easier for our guys,” said Hancock, who now has only five players playing offense and defense under the two-platoon system. “We obviously are staying fresher, but I’m able to talk to guys on the sideline now and correct issues.”

Though the 42-8 score did not reflect it, Hancock said his team reacted well to the switch against Jena, and Hancock is hoping to build off of his team’s progress against a 4-2 Marksville squad. Antione Taylor and Julian Wilson will handle most of the carries offensively, as the Thompson twins, Darius and Jarius, now play strictly defense after starting the season in the Vikings backfield.

“I only have three running backs now, so Antione and Julian will definitely get most of the carries,” Hancock said.

Hancock is hoping his team shows some fire and desire heading into the Vikings’ second district clash of the season. As Hancock put it, there is no love lost in the Vikings’ district.

“Apparently everybody likes to run up the score,” Hancock said. “Jena had no problem passing late against us, and Avoyelles scored 80 on Caldwell.”

One thing Hancock is sure of is the Vikings will play physical, as they have all season long.

“I think for the most part, our guys are very physical,” Hancock said. “We need to improve it in some positions, but ultimately, I just want guys to go out there and have fun. They’ve been playing too tight. They’re working hard, and the wins will come.”