TANNER – LaRon White knows things don’t get any easier in the second round of playoffs. That’s why the Tanner football coach wasn’t surprised when he saw how good Lineville looked on film as the Rattlers’ coaching staff was getting ready for Friday’s matchup.

“They’re real good,” he said. “Probably better than anything we’ve seen this year. They’ve got a lot of seniors and are loaded with athletes. It’s going to be a challenge.”

Even though the perennial powerhouse looked like a tough opponent on film, White said not to count Tanner out yet.

“We know they’re a tough team, but we’re going to go down there and try to mix it up with them,” White said. “We’re going to have to play our best game, but we’re not giving up just yet.”

Lineville’s only loss of the season was at the hands of Class 3A, No. 1-ranked Clay County. White said he’s expecting a tough, physical football game.

“They have talented players all over the field,” White said. “We’re going to need some guys to step up this week.”

White said Lineville’s rushing attack has given some of their opponent’s problems this season. He said it’s crucial to keep their running backs from getting into the secondary.

“They use their speed and athletic ability to hurt you,” he said. “We can’t let them get into the open field. One area we’re going to need a good effort from is our secondary. They’ve got some running backs that can make you miss. Overall, we need a solid defensive effort.”

After watching the game film from Tanner’s 24-13 win over Westbrook Christian, White said he was pleased with the effort he got from his team. But he was quick to note that the Rattlers will need a little more this week at Lineville.

“We’ve got to have a good week of practice,” he said. “Our coaching staff is going to start getting our guys prepared and it’s up to our seniors to make sure everything stays on course. When you start getting to this point in the season, you know every week is going to be a challenge. It’s up to the players to respond.

“We’re going to start putting together a game plan for Friday’s game this week and I think we’re capable of competing.”