Demopolis (1-4, 1-1) hosts Selma (4-1, 2-1) tonight for Homecoming in a clash of 5A, Region 3 foes with playoff aspirations.

While the contest certainly carries with it postseason implications, the game has become largely about getting better and shedding the funk of a three-game losing streak for the Tigers.

“I think we’ve got to get better at the fundamentals,” DHS head coach Tom Causey said. “We’ve worked our hardest at that, at fundamentals and playing one on one.”

Causey said he was pleased with the team this week after it picked up the tempo following a lackluster Monday practice session.

“I like the way we practiced this week,” Causey said. “I think we’ve gotten better every day this week.”

Causey said the turning point in the week seemed to come on Tuesday when the coaching staff addressed the players with an new and unusual challenge.

“We’ve challenged our players all year long, everyday. Something didn’t feel right,” Causey said. “We talked to our coaches and had them challenge our kids.”

Causey said the Tigers responded with fervor and proceeded to turn in strong practice after strong practice with a previously absent bounce in their step.

Causey now hopes that success will translate into the atmosphere of the final Homecoming game at Memorial Stadium. In order for that to happen, the team will need to perform well against a big, athletic Selma team.

“They’re big up front on the offensive line. Early in the season they were a heavy run team,” Causey said. The Saints have since employed a shotgun spread offense.

“We’ve prepared all week for both types of offense,” Causey said.

The Tigers are also anticipating a formidable obstacle with the speedy Selma defense. However, Demopolis expects to counter with its own stingy defensive unit.

“When our defense is playing wide open, they’re pretty good,” Causey said. “I’m anxious to see them wide open again in competition.”

The defense is expected to receive a boost from the return of high octane middle linebacker Greg Irvin whose senior leadership and sideline-to-sideline play will be a welcome addition.