Moore vs. Choctaw Capsule...

By Justin Hite

Moore Lions (0-3) at Choctaw Yellowjackets (1-2)
When: 7:30 p.m. Friday
Where: Choctaw

Moore (0-3)
Why the Lions can win: Moore has improved every game despite seemingly losing by worse and worse. The defense has taken its game to another level and coach Scott Myers feels like the team is playing better than it has in more than a year. There’s no substitute for strong momentum and a belief in victory. Right now, Moore has that and this might be its best chance to win a game this season.

Choctaw (1-2)
Why the Yellowjackets can win: The Yellowjackets can score, but defense has been the problem. Choctaw put up 22 points on a still undefeated Putnam City team in Week 3 and opened its season with a 42-point output against Putnam City West. Will the Yellowjackets’ offense be able to bounce back after back-to-back losses in time for the start of the district schedule?

Key matchup: Moore’s offense vs. the Choctaw defense. Moore has struggled offensively and hasn’t kept up with its improving defense. The Lions have scored only 30 points in their first three games. If they can score Friday, it’s likely the Moore defense will be able to hold Choctaw low. But can Moore score enough?

The pick: Choctaw 20, Moore 14. Moore will tie its season-high in points, but the defense won’t be able to slow down a Yellowjackets’ offense that is averaging 25 points per game.