By FRED CONLEY
T-H Sports Editor
The West Helena Cougars could make tonight's preseason scrimmage against Forrest City interesting.
With their one-back (Slot I) offensive set, the Cougars will more than likely "light it up" and test the Mustangs defensively tonight beginning at 7 p.m. at Sam Smith Stadium.
But that's okay, because it's only a benefit scrimmage and both coaching staffs will be looking at many different players in many different positions as both teams prepare for their season openers.
Of course, West Helena's one-back set doesn't offer much help for the Mustangs' defense, who have to be prepared for Osceola's Wishbone attack come Aug. 31.
The Cougars finished 4-6 a year ago in the AAAA-Southeast but have been picked to finish third this time around behind Monticello and Watson Chapel.
They return all-state quarterback Cary Washington, who owns 4.4 speed.
The Mustangs finished 4-7 a year ago and made the state tournament cut by finishing fourth.
They lost to Little Rock Central in the first round.
Forrest City will counter with senior QB Justin Edwards, the projected season starter.
Tonight's scrimmage game will be controlled and will feature each facet of the game, except for the kickoffs.
Both teams will be punting.
Mustangs' Coach Donnie Willis has said he wants to try to play everybody, especially the sophomores.
The Blue Junior Mustangs will travel to Osceola tonight to take part in a junior high scrimmage which involves Blytheville, Earle and Osceola.
That scrimmage begins at 6 p.m.
The White Junior Mustangs are not involved in any preseason scrimmages/
The Palestine-Wheatley junior and senior high teams will host EPC Thursday in a scrimmage game at Patriot Field.