The McKenzie Tigers' playoffs hopes came crashing down with Friday night's 52-24 loss to Florala, but that was the 2006 season.

From this week to next season, it's 2007.

&#8220I told our guys there is two ways to look at the 10th week: this can be a week to get it over with or this can be the beginning of next season,” first-year McKenzie head coach Miles Brown said.

Although the Tigers have struggled at times during the season, after back-to-back 1-9 and 0-9 seasons, this year's 3-6 team is much improved.

&#8220I don't think I have ever coached a better group,” Brown said of his team.

The McKenzie Tigers will close out the official 2006 season Thursday night against the Red Level Tigers and Brown said the Tigers from 12 miles south of McKenzie present a big challenge defensively.

&#8220They come at you from all angles and that presents a great challenge offensively,” Brown said.

Brown said he expects his team to regroup after Friday night's loss because of the way they have come together throughout the season.

&#8220Our players have a lot of class and character and it has shown on and off the field, in and out of the classroom,” Brown said. &#8220It really looks like our future is bright.

Kickoff for Friday night's final game at McKenzie is scheduled for 7 p.m.