The Pike County Bulldogs kick off a new era today as they begin play in Class 3A Region 3 by hosting B.B. Comer.

“We have been preparing,” said Bulldogs head coach Fred Holland. “They are a big team, and I feel like we will have our hands full against them.”

The Tigers are the first of the unfamiliar opponents the Bulldogs will face this season.

“I talked to our players about getting off to a good start in the region,” Holland said. “Our guys understand that region games are very important. We do a good job at preparing for those types of games.”

The Bulldogs (0-1) have faced Charles Henderson and defending 2A state champions Elba. “They were great games for us,” Holland said. “The last two games have really prepared us for how hard the region games will be for us. Not only that, but it has prepared us to play all four quarters.”

The Bulldogs have employed a run-heavy offense so far this year.

“I think we are more of a running team,” Holland said. “Our guys have been able to excel at being able to run and attack people.”

sophomore quarterback Jaidyn Wilson continues to grow into the role. “He is gaining confidence as he goes,” Holland said. “He is staring to understand and see more things.”

Offensively, the Tigers are similar to the Bulldogs.

“They are like us when it comes to running the ball,” Holland said. “They will do a lot of unbalanced looks and they will run the ball right at you.”

Defensively, the Tigers will stack the box. “They come to get you,” Holland said. “We have watched three films and that is what they do. They come after you.”

Kickoff of the first ever matchup between the Tigers and Bulldogs is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Bulldogs Stadium.