Tonight’s Region 5-4A showdown between Wayne County and Northeast Jones could be a low scoring affair.

The Tigers (4-2, 2-1 in 5-4A) entertain the state and nationally ranked War Eagles (6-0, 2-0) at 7 p.m. in what is a key division game for both squads.

Northeast Jones, coming off big wins over county foes South Jones and West Jones, could get back in the division title chase with the win over Wayne County.

To do so, the Tigers will have to rely a great deal on a defense that is surrendering just under 10 points a game this season. Two key components of the defense are safety Cory Harrison and linebacker Corvell Harrison. Both players returned interceptions for touchdowns in last week’s 35-16 win at West Jones that handed the Mustangs their first loss of the season.

“They are an athletic team that will get after you and will beat you if you’re not careful,” Wayne County head coach Marcus Boyles told the Wayne County News this week. His squad routed the Tigers 38-0 a year ago.

Wayne County’s defense has been even more stout. The War Eagles have given up just 33 total points this season (5.5/game).

Both teams also possess offenses with explosive potential. The Tigers are led by junior quarterback Chucky Nichols, who is capable of hurting a team with his arm and legs.

“He can run the ball well, and he throws it well, too,” said Boyles. “You have to defend a lot of different things with a quarterback like that.”

The War Eagles have some high octane weapons, also, particularly senior running back Tracey Lampley, who has rushed for over 500 yards and 10 touchdowns. He also has 200-plus receiving yards.

The War Eagles are coming off a 30-0 win over 5-4A foe Northeast Lauderdale. Wayne County lost five of seven fumbles in the game, something Boyles says his team cannot afford to do against the Tigers.

“If we put the ball on the turf as many times as we did last week, we’re not going to have a good chance at winning the ballgame,” said Boyles.