Lincoln County will go for its fourth straight win this Friday night in Sparta when the Red Devils take on the talented Hancock Central Bulldogs.
The Bulldogs had high hopes coming into the 2005 season. Hancock finished 5-7 last year, their best season in many years. They lost in the second round of the playoffs to semi-finalist Bowdon.
The Sparta school started out strong this year, defeating Wilkinson County 32-6 in the season opener, followed by a 30-27 squeaker over Harlem. The 26-point win over Region 4-A Wilkinson was particularly interesting since Wilkinson had defeated Dooly County 6-0 the week after Dooly upset Clinch County.
But then the wheels came off, with big losses to 7-AA teams Greene County (48-7) and Putnam County (35-15), and region losses to Warren County (48-8) and Washington-Wilkes (36-7)
Unfortunately, Hancock Central apparently has done little to improve their football facility. If you want to sit down, you best be there early as there are few seats available on the visitors side. We are pleased to report that we've heard the Bulldogs may have a new stadium as early as next season.
Our Red Devils must continue to improve this week, as this game is followed by their toughest two games: Washington-Wilkes and Warren County. Lincoln County fans may see some Wilkes County cars Friday night, as the Tigers travel to Milledgeville to play GMC. Warren County takes on the Irish in Augusta.