Wet weather pushes back OC-D’burg
Posted: Thursday, October 27, 2011 7:02 pm The Messenger
Overnight rain and the threat of more showers throughout the day has forced Obion County Central officials to postpone tonight’s football game with visiting Dyersburg until Friday night.
Kickoff will remain at 7 p.m.
OCCHS Athletic Director Craig Rogers made the call this morning after evaluating the situation and checking the weather radar that showed more rainfall in Arkansas possibly headed in this direction.
Senior Night activities — which will be held before the game — are to honor more than 50 Rebel fall sports athletes and figured into the decision as well, Rogers said.
“There were a lot of variables. Obviously, the rain and field conditions are first, and it looks like a heavy band (of rain) is headed our way and could get here later in the day,†he told The Messenger. “We’ll be honoring a lot of seniors and we don’t want their parents to have to stand out in the rain, either.
“And, there’s the gate issue, too. We’re expecting a big, big crowd, and we don’t want the weather to be an issue. Friday is supposed to be nice, and my thought is that this is just the best for all involved.â€
Rogers said OC head football coach Shawn Jackson was initially in favor of playing, but was on-board with his decision after listening to his reasoning.
The Central AD contacted Dyersburg officials around mid-morning and delivered the news.
“It’s our home game and our call,†Rogers said.
The contest will have a bearing on the seeding for the West quad playoff bracket in Class 4A.
If the Rebels win and complete a 9-1 regular season, they likely will be the fifth seed and play in Memphis at either Kings-bury or Frayser in Round 1 — barring an upset in the Covington-Ripley or Milan vs. Haywood game(s).
A loss likely would send Central to Memphis to play Fairley in the opening round as the sixth seed. The Bulldogs probably will be ticketed as a No. 3 seed.
Dyersburg, winners of six straight and with a 7-2 mark coming in, would be a fifth seed if it beats Obion Central and a sixth seed with a loss.
No decision had been made as of press time on the Huntingdon at Dresden District 13A showdown, also tonight.
The No. 1-ranked Mustangs will be looking to complete their first unbeaten regular season since 1975, while Dresden could win its first district championship since 1998.