By Patrick Murphy

The Natchez Democrat

NATCHEZ — In tonight’s only home game in the area, Natchez High hosts rival Jefferson County in the U.S. 61 rivalry.

The Natchez High School Bulldogs (1-0) begin their home season against rival Jefferson County Tigers. In last season’s game, the Bulldogs won 33-32.

Head coach Roy Rigsby said this rivalry is like two siblings.

“It’s kind of like fighting your brother,” Rigsby said. “It’s not much different between the teams or anything. We play against them every year.”

Some of the players to watch for the Bulldogs are Desnick Bolden, Brad Dean and James Singleton. Bolden led the team with 107 rushing yards in the game against Wilkinson County. Dean led the defensive side with five total tackles. One of the other players to watch is Josh Thomas.

“I think probably one of the guys that’s a play maker under the radar is Josh Thomas,” Rigsby said. “He’s just started playing and he’s doing a great job.”

In the game against Wilkinson County, Thomas had three solo tackles and disrupted pass of the ball twice.

Thomas said he would agree with being an under-the-radar player.

“I feel like I’m the underdog in a lot of situations, because I’m young,” Thomas said. “I wouldn’t be there much longer.”

Two other Natchez schools will be on the road tonight. The Cathedral Green Wave (0-1) are facing St. Joseph Madison in a Catholic schools rivalry. Adams County Christian School (1-0) are on the road to take on Columbia Academy.

Rigsby said his team is excited to play in front of the home crowd.

“We had a jamboree before the official games,” Rigsby said. “We’re excited about this opportunity. We’re also looking forward to the energy and enthusiasm that the fans bring.”

Tonight’s game begins at 7 at Natchez High School.