The Panthers showed plenty of backfield speed at practice, an area they were strong in last year as well.

CHULA — Tiftarea Academy fans missing high school football will get their first taste of it Friday night. The annual Blue-Gold scrimmage is returning to the Panther Pit.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m., but the festive atmosphere will get started a little earlier. Tiftarea is encouraging fans to participate in a tailgate party beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Requested admission to the Blue-Gold scrimmage are cases of water or sports drinks.

On Aug. 9, the Panthers are to host Randolph-Clay in a scrimmage contest. Tiftarea will open the regular season Aug. 16 at Central Fellowship. They’ll make their home debut Aug. 30 against Class 3A runners-up for 2023 John Milledge Academy.