The Demopolis Tigers (8-1, 6-1) are looking to bounce back this week after a lackluster performance against Jackson last week.

The Tigers play host to rival Hillcrest (5-4, 4-3) on Thursday night. The Patriots defeated the Tigers in a lopsided victory last season, 52-13.

Head coach Tom Causey said his team has to come back with an attitude this week.

“We got manhandled Friday night,” he said. “I know our leadership and character is strong, and I expect us to come back and fight.”

He said Hillcrest is a good team with good running backs, but he believes his team can rebound from last week’s tough loss.

“We practiced Sunday and had a good practice,” he said. “They have a new quarterback this year and good running backs. They have two of the best defensive tackles we’ll see all year. With the short week, we just move everything up a day.”

The Tigers will be a No. 2 seed in the playoffs and will host Sylacauga in the first round.