West Lincoln (2-3), led by first-year head coach Charlie Jackson, returns from a bye last week to start its Region 7-2A race.

This week, the Bears will travel to Bassfield to take on the defending region champs, the Yellowjackets.

The Yellowjackets (4-2), coached by Lance Mancuso, defeated their long-time rivals, the East Marion Eagles, 45-30 in an offensive slugfest last week.

Junior running back Ron Thompson powered Bassfield’s rushing attack with 17 carries for 151 yards. Rashaud Green provided 12 rushes for 100 yards.

Jerome Johnson and Dewayne Magee powered the Yellowjackets’ defense with eight tackles each.

West Lincoln’s top offensive performer against Pass Christian – two weeks ago – was senior Lofton Sills with 50 yards receiving on three receptions.

Defensively, Sills directed the Bears with 10 tackles followed by Aaron Byrd’s nine tackles. Liam Rutland and Julian Anderson each had seven tackles.

Last year, Bassfield blanked West Lincoln 58-0.

My prediction: Bassfield overpowers West Lincoln 49-12.