The Opp Bobcats (1-1, 1-0 in Class 4A Region 2) may have stumbled out of the gate, dropping their season opener to Elba, but the Bobcats regained their composure last week with a region road victory over Holtville and hopes are high to continue that momentum with a second consecutive region win over Alabama Christian Academy at home tonight.

Head football coach Jack Whigham said he was pleased with the season so far, but a lot of work still remains to be done.

“It was great to get the region schedule off to a good start,” he said. “Friday’s game is important because it is the next game on our schedule, but it is also important because it is a region match. We are back home after being on the road for the next week and I feel confident that our team will perform to the best of their ability.”

According to Whigham, the Bobcats will bring a full roster to the field Friday night and the team has held quality practice sessions this week.

“We have everyone back in good shape,” he said. “We are looking forward to a good day of practice (Tuesday). We had a good day (Monday) and we will be ready for Friday.”

The ACA Eagles (1-1, 0-1) will look to make up for lost ground after Elmore County topped them 34-14 in a conference battle last week. Whigham said he does not plan to underestimate the team, which the Bobcats shut out 28-0 in Montgomery last season.

“They are a lot better team than they were last year,” he said. “They are a lot more physical than they were last year. They have gone to the spread offense and are still playing a 40 defense.

“Jordan Creel, who lead the team last year, is still a good safety,” he added. “If people think they are the same Alabama Christian, then they are mistaken. They are a much better team.”

Creel led the Eagles in 2007 with 78 tackles, one interception and three forced fumbles.

Several players have made an impressive mark in the book for the Bobcats after only two games.

Sophomore Richard Davis leads Opp in rushes with 34 for a total of 253 yards and four touchdowns. Junior Josh Scarbrough follows close behind with 28 rushes for 150 yards and three touchdowns.

Junior Britt Wilson leads in receptions with two for a total of 58 yards, junior Alex Banks also has two receptions for a total of 35 yards and junior Josh Thompson has earned three receptions for a total of 32 yards.

Junior quarterback Gavin Free has connected 10 out of 17 attempted passes so far this season for a total of 144 yards.

Senior Chris Carlton has once again taken the leadership position for the Bobcat defense in 2008. Carlton has delivered 13 solo tackles and eight assists so far this season. Senior Jevaunn Reed is following close behind with nine solo tackles and nine assists.

Kickoff for Friday night’s region match up between the Alabama Christian Academy Eagles and the Opp Bobcats at Opp’s Channel-Lee Stadium will be at 7 p.m.