BOGUE CHITTO — For Bogue Chitto free safety C.J. Tate, Fridaynight’s Region 4-1A matchup at Enterprise against the FightingYellow Jackets is the biggest game of the season for him and hisBobcat teammates. The game will decide which team clinches the No.4 spot in Region 4 and gets to play in the 1A state footballplayoffs next week.

In last Friday’s 32-13 win over region foe Natchez Cathedral,Tate helped his teammates with 8 tackles and a passinterception.

For his accomplishments, Tate has been selected as The DAILYLEADER’S Defensive Player of the Week.

“It’s an honor,” smiled Tate Monday afternoon in the new Bobcatfield house.

Tate, a 5-foot-5, 130-pound senior, runs a 40-yard dash in 4.5time.

In the weight room, Tate works hard and is also a member of thepowerlifting team. He bench presses 140 pounds, squats 270 and deadlifts 335.

“C.J. plays hard,” said Bogue Chitto head coach Gareth Sartin.”He gives it everything he’s got.

“C.J.’s not scared of bigger players to make a tackle,”continued Sartin. “He’s fearless. He’ll sacrifice his body.”

Tate says he has been playing free safety since seventh grade.”I watch for the pass,” explained Tate of his responsibility. Hehas recovered 2 fumbles and intercepted a pass this season.

Against Cathedral, Tate picked off his first pass and returnedit 20 yards.

“I was watching the play and stepped in front of the (Cathedral)receiver,” added Tate.

Tate says he is pleased with the progress the Bobcat defense hasmade this year but believes there is room for improvement. “We cando a little bit better,”

Working on BC’s defensive line last week were Fred Tillman atnose guard and Bubba Bigner and Luvaries Jackson at tackle. Thecornerbacks are Donyea Dillon and Jamall McNulty. Steven Snow isstrong safety with Cory Washington at rover. Strong linebacker isMatt Boone. Other linebackers are Ty McKee and RichardWilliams.

Tate appreciates the help he has received from Coach Sartin.”Coach Sartin told me to visualize my lineups on defense at freesafety.” He also credited assistant coach Adam Moak with helpinghim improve.

“Coach Moak does everything.” said Tate. “He points out what Iam supposed to do. I would like to thank everybody for helping me,”added Tate.

Tate knows the importance of this week’s game at Enterprise. Winand you are in the playoffs Lose and stay home.

“It is a must-win game to get to the playoffs,” said Tate. “Wehave to stop their runners.”

Tate feels Bogue Chitto can go a long ways in the playoffs. “Ifwe play like we are capable, we should do well.”

Tate also plays in the outfield on the Bobcat baseball team. Inhis spare time, Tate likes to hunt and fish.