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Southside and Keith High are the only Dallas County schools to make the state football playoffs this season.

The Panthers visit Straughn (9-1) in a Class 3A first-round contest. Keith (6-4) travels to Georgiana (8-2) in a first-round 1A state playoff contest.  Both games will be played on Friday with 7 p.m. kickoffs.

Southside coach Charles Moody, Jr. said he knows the importance of the postseason, regardless of the Panthers finishing fourth in Region 3, 3A. Southside sat out several players to get ready for round one.

“It’s always a major accomplishment to make the playoffs,” Moody said. “Half the teams in the state are at home. It’s a blessing to still be playing football right now. Straughn is a very physical football team who has always been a force.”

The Panthers can score from anywhere, led by quarterback MJ Reese and wide receivers Derick Smith and Erick Smith.

Keith at Georgina: The Bears’ defense and running game give them a chance to advance into the second round.

Running back Saderreion Reuben ran for 244 yards and two touchdowns on just carries against Isabella.

Keith coach Anthony Lumpkin said the Bears will have to execute their game plan against Georgiana.

“They are well coached, very athletic and they can score,” Lumpkin said.