WOODVILLE — Lamar Jackson’s 203 rushing yards proved to be pivotal as the Wilkinson County High School Wildcats held on for a 20-14 win over the Crystal Springs High School Tigers in an MHSAA Division 7-3A game Friday night.

Even though Wilkinson County racked up 373 yards of total offense, the Wildcats were almost their own worst enemy once again because of turnovers and ineffectiveness in the red zone.

“We just found a way to win,” Wildcats head coach Kenneth Brown said “When we got in the red zone, we left three touchdowns on the field. Not to take away from Crystal Springs. They’ve been in some close games. This time fate was on our side.”

And it was also nice to have a strong running game to take the pressure off quarterback Desmond Hunter. Even though Hunter is a junior, this is his first year to start at the position.

“Our quarterback threw the ball well. He needs to reads defenses better. Hopefully, it’ll make him a better quarterback,” Brown said.

Hunter completed 13 of 30 passes for 146 yards, but he was picked off twice and one of those was returned for a touchdown.

“The running game was effective. The defense played well. Overall’, the kids played like we’ve been preaching all season. They stayed home and read their offense,” Brown said.

Wilkinson County (3-7, 1-3) closes out its regular season at Wesson next Friday.