Zion Chapel Rebels close out 2015 season

Published 3:00 am Thursday, October 29, 2015

The Zion Chapel Rebels close out their 2015 football season Friday when they host the Ariton Purple Cats.

The task at hand for the Rebels entering the final game is to keep focused on getting better.

“Someone made a comment earlier week saying it’s almost like it’s like the first couple weeks of practice because there is nothing to play for,” said Rebels head coach Bradley Bowers. “We have two seniors who have done a great job during their careers at Zion Chapel. We have them and pride to play for.”

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Seniors Daniel Peoples and Cade Mobley have played for the Rebels throughout their high school careers, and they’ve seen good seasons and bad. Bowers wants to help them end their careers on a positive note.

“It would be big,” Bowers said. “If there was ever two kids that deserved it, it’s those two kids. They have been through good times and bad and they stuck through it. They are great leaders. Not only do you want them on your football team but later in life you would want them to work for you.”

Bowers said the Rebels have the capability of winning against Ariton, despite the Purple Cats’ improvement this season.

“If you go back and look at us, last year we were able to pull of a two-overtime win at Ariton,” Bowers said. “It gives you momentum heading into the off season. Everybody feels good. We have the opportunity to go out winners. We need to get that done and handle our business.”

Ariton (4-5, 3-4 in Region 2) clinched a playoff berth a week ago when they defeated Cottonwood 51-49. The Purple Cats enter the game having won their last three games while averaging nearly 49 points per game.

“They like to run out of the spread,” Bowers said. “They are athletic, and they are probably the most improved team from 2014 to 2015.”

Last year, Ariton struggled, finishing with a 1-9 overall record.

“Coach (Joshua) Herring has really done a good job turning those kids around,” Bowers said. “They are playing really good football, and they were able to lock up a playoff spot last week.”

The Rebels hope to maintain their focus against a team that may already be looking ahead to the playoffs.

“We need to play our best game,” Bowers said. “We still haven’t played it. Our guys are going to play hard and we are looking forward to good things Friday night.”

Kick off between the Purple Cats and Rebels is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Greene Memorial Stadium.