MADISON, Fla. (WTXL) - Both the Taylor County Bulldog and Madison County Cowboy football teams are having good seasons in their own right. Taylor County is a win away from a District title, while Madison sealed up the Championship last week.
This week, the neighboring county high schools are focused on each other, and although this game means nothing as far as postseason play goes, both schools know it's a big deal.
"Madison's about thirty minutes away, it's a rivalry game," laughed Taylor County head coach Tanner Jones. "We've got family members in Madison, we got family members in Perry. The kids are already talking it up."
"We talk all the time about being able to go in the Live Oak Walmart or the Perry Walmart for the rest of our lives with Madison County stuff on," added Madison County's Mike Coe. "When you come in Monday to review the film and get ready for the next week, you don't have to say much."
Madison County is undefeated, and coach Coe said his group is one with no egos. He added they love to work, and part of that motivation comes from last year's loss to Trenton in the Final Four of the Class 1A State Playoffs.
The Bulldogs have several talented athletes that have brought up the level of competition among the whole team, and while Jones admits next week's District game against Florida High is what matters more to their season, he wouldn't complain about a win over Madison on Friday.
"To beat Madison, we've got to have a perfect game," he said. "To beat Madison we have to have some things go our way. You have to have a little luck on your side."
"You can tell they've worked really hard this off season," said Coe. "They're a different looking Taylor County team, more physical, and they look better than they have. We're going to have our hands full. We're going to have to play well."
Friday's game is slated for 7:30 at Madison County High School.
