But Decatur (1-6, 1-2) can do its part to keep its playoff hopes alive Friday with a win over the Vernon Lions. Decatur and Vernon (1-7, 1-2) will kick off Friday at 7:30 p.m. at Lion Stadium.
Decatur coach Kyle Story said Monday, even if they win out, the Eagles will need assistance to make the playoffs after losses to Iowa Park and Burkburnett.
"We've got to have some help," Story said. "Iowa Park and Burkburnett would need to lose next week.
"All we can do is worry about going to Vernon and playing as well as possible."
Decatur will play a Vernon team that has had its own struggles this season. Vernon fell to Bridgeport last week 49-7. The Lions have been outscored 97-21 in its last two games against Bridgeport and Burkburnett.
Opponents have chewed up large chunks of yards on the ground against Vernon. Burkburnett rushed for more than 300 yards, and Bridgeport had 189 against the Lions.
With Tyler Hodges rejoining the backfield to go along with Chance Gasperson and Colby Moore, Story said the Eagles could also find success running the ball against Vernon.
"We should have three good running backs with Tyler Hodges getting back ready to play," Story said. "We should have a decent running game.
"We've got to be physical and run the ball aggressively," he added.
Sophomore quarterback Colton Parker rushed for 56 yards. He picked up most of the yards scrambling on the Eagles' last scoring drive.
"He didn't have anyone open and made a couple of good runs on that one scoring drive," Story said. "He made some good decisions and didn't try to throw into coverage."
Defensively, Decatur will see multiple looks from Vernon. Story said Vernon will use the wing-T and operate out of the spread. Vernon had 204 yards last week against Bridgeport.
"They can be dangerous and have some athletes," Story said.
Jesus Lora ran the ball 10 times for 85 yards and a touchdown against Bridgeport.
Decatur had trouble stopping the run against Burkburnett, allowing 448 yards rushing. Two Burkburnett backs rushed for more than 100 yards.
Story said they were in position to make stops last week, but didn't make the tackle.
"We had opportunities for guys to make plays, but they were unable to wrap up and get the guy on the ground," Story said. "We have to tackle better."
