Co-Lin (4-3, 2-2) is riding an emotional high after last Saturday's 42-25 upset of No. 20-ranked Pearl River. The homecoming victory was tempered by the reduced period of time to prepare for East Central.

"It's a real short week," said Co-Lin head coach Glenn Davis. "We are trying to get ready and find a dry place to practice."

Davis and his staff practiced Tuesday at the multi-purpose building in Gallman, a popular location for rodeos.

East Central (2-5, 0-4) is residing in the South Division cellar but Davis said the Warriors have potential. "Offensively, they are really talented. They have the most valuable player returning for them."

The MVP is quarterback Emanuel Taylor. He led the Warriors to a 4-5 record last year. They lost 49-18 to South Division leader Gulf Coast (6-1, 4-0) last week.

Taylor has rushed for 609 yards and 3 touchdowns this season. He has passed for 1,567 yards and 12 TDs.

"They're pretty athletic at all their skill positions on offense," said Davis. Dontic Sanders is ECCC's main mover at running back. Derrick Cade also runs the ball a lot. Antonio Hughes sparkles as a wide receiver.

Hughes has 27 catches for 390 yards and 2 TDs.

Former Mississippi State defensive lineman Brian Anderson is in his first year at the helm of ECCC football fortunes.

"Defensively, they have changed their scheme in the last four weeks," said Davis. "They have gone from a four-man to a three-man front."

Nose guard Khalid Wilson is a standout in the defensive line. Jeremy Dillon works at end. Linebacker Darius Wallace and defensive backs Ken Griffin are other leaders. Homecoming Fest

Co-Lin's homecoming victory was sparked by sophomore running back Tywon Lee who rushed 29 times for 161 yards and 2 TDs. Dequan Menzie ran a fake punt back 46 yards for a score.

Freshman quarterback Percy Turner completed 14 of 23 passes for 138 yards in the win.

"It was a big day for us," said Davis. "A bunch of our kids stepped up and played well. That always helps."

Davis said Co-Lin's defense played well against Pearl River. "They made some big stops and got some turnovers."

On defense, sophomore linebacker Charles (Bobo) Rancifer intercepted a pass and made 5 tackles. Lionel Stokes directed the defense with 9 tackles, including 2 for losses. Ryan Williams had 9 tackles and Terrance Green 7.

"Our offensive line has made progress," Davis pointed out. "Any time you can rush for 100 yards against Pearl River, you've done a good job."

Starting in the offensive line for the Wolves are Bennie Peoples at left tackle. Pat Wallace at left guard, Darion Smith at center, Joe Collins at right guard and Oscar Johnson at right tackle.

Wolf Tails: Last year Co-Lin lost 35-28 to East Central in overtime, at Decatur.