Despite an offensive explosion from senior quarterback Heath Hickman and junior wideout William King, Brookhaven Academy’s (0-3, 0-1) kicking game struggles cost them a district win in a 21-20 loss to Prentiss Christian Friday.

Two failed extra point attempts forced the Cougars to go for a two-point conversion after a score in the fourth quarter, only to see it fail as well. The Cougars’ defense stifled the Saints’ offense throughout the game, and the Cougars still led late in the fourth quarter.

With under three minutes to play, the Saints drew up a trick play and converted a flanker pass for a 70-yard touchdown. The Saints would finish with just 195 yards of total offense.

The Cougars discovered an offensive weapon in junior William King. Primarily a defensive player in the first two games, King exploded on to the scene against the Saints, hauling in 15 catches for 205 yards and two touchdowns.

Hickman guided the Cougars to a season-high 485 yards of total offense and 18 first downs. Senior Connor Dorman led the Cougars rushers with 71 yards on 16 carries and one touchdown.

Defensively, senior Garrett Pace led Cougars again in tackles, collecting a season high 13 tackles, two for a loss, and one sack. Juniors Carter Culbertson and JT Cline also had a sack apiece.

The Cougars will be action next Friday as they prepare to host the Bowling Green Buccaneers for homecoming. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.