So far this year, the Tigers have experienced many firsts. They picked up their first region win against Stockbridge two weeks ago and have already set a school record for most wins in a season, eclipsing last year’s total with their most recent victory over Jonesboro.

Coach Kirk Hoffman hopes to keep it rolling tonight at Sharp Stadium against Dutchtown as Alcovy looks to move to 3-1 in Region 4-AAAA.

"They are having some success for the first time this year," Hoffman said of Dutchtown, which has been open for five years. "In the past they have played in the same region with schools like Northside, Warner- Robbins, and Westside Macon. They (Dutchtown) are well coach and play hard."

A win would mean several things. For starters, the Tigers (3-2, 2-1 Region 4-AAAA) sit in a three-way tie for second place in the region with North Clayton alone in first at 3-0. With a victory, the Tigers will remain in good position in the region. But even more important, a win would move Dutchtown (2-2, 1-1) down the standings and hand them a second region loss. Griffin plays North Clayton so the Tigers will either be in a four-way tie or Griffin will also fall a game back.

Alcovy will come out looking to run the ball. It’s no secret the Tigers keep the ball on the ground and Hoffman said he doesn’t expect to stray too far from what’s been working lately.

"We are going to try and establish the run," he said. "We must control the line scrimmage and not turn the ball over."

The Tigers have been especially successful since they turned to Rod Tolen at quarterback. In the two games he’s started, Alcovy is averaging 30.5 points per game while going 2-0.

Part of the reason for the offensive production has been an improved offensive line. Hoffman said the line is turning the corner and playing as a unit.

Matt Gunnells has anchored a stingy run defense and Nick Wilson leads the Tigers in interceptions. Against Dutchtown, Alcovy will face dual-threat quarterback Trey Nelson who has shown ability to make plays both in the running game and through the air. In the Bulldogs’ 24-21 victory of Lee County,

Nelson threw a 51-yard touchdown bomb while also scoring a rushing touchdown.

Tolen, who left last week’s game at halftime due to a strained knee, is ready to go and Hoffman said he doesn’t expect any of his key players to miss the game.

"For the most part we are healthy," he said. "Like a lot of teams at this time in the season we have some players banged up. The off week will help next week."

Like Alcovy, Dutchtown is a relatively new program and has yet to have a breakout year. But the move to a new region has worked out well so far as Tigers have been in every game while picking two early wins.

The fast has given Hoffman’s team confidence it can play with anyone and two more wins would virtually guarantee a trip to the post season. Alcovy will try to move one step closer tonight.

"We must control the line of scrimmage and not make mistakes," Hoffman said. "I think this game will be a great game to watch but for us to win, we can not afford to make mistakes."