With the halfway point of the regular season coming this Friday, all but two local teams have tasted the bitter flavor of defeat.

But for those two, Dallas County and Wilcox Academy, expectations are rising.

With players that have been in pressure games at both schools, neither Bush nor Wilcox coach Chris Burford is worried about their teams becoming over confident.

The teams have had success with similar formulas, a tough defense, stout running attack and passing games that are capable of keeping opponents honest.

The Hornets are working with a similar theme.

They’re pleased with where they are and working to get better.

Both teams have a depth of talent at the skill position and have had different leaders step up. Wilcox’s running backs, a duo of Michaels, Montee and Riggs and quarterback Phillip Merryman have formed a potent attack.

At Dallas County even more players have stepped up to lead.

Whether it’s defensive back Clint Cooper making plays on special teams, fullback Carlos Peoples or this week’s hero running back Zack Wilson, the Hornets know someone will step up and lead.

Those leaders have come on the other side of the ball as well.

Peoples and Cooper have been terrific for Dallas County on defense.

Down in Camden, Clint Akin, Jesse Blackwell and Jacob Lyon have been playing well for the Wildcats defense.

Each week the teams stay undefeated the challenge grows.

Opponents get motivated to knock off the top dog and injuries and fatigue will start to take their toll.

But these experienced teams are prepared to handle whatever challenges get thrown in their way.