The Opp Bobcats must “control the clock” to defeat Elba in its regular season home opener tonight, coach Jack Whigham said.

“When you keep the ball from them, it frustrates the other team,” Whigham said. “We need to control the clock, and we need drives to last three to four to five minutes.”

Whigham said Elba will be the most talented Class 2A team the Bobcats will face this season.

Last year, Elba finished the season 11-1 in the second round of the playoffs.

“They’re as talented as any 2A school I’ve seen,” Whigham said. “I really believe they’ve got a chance to win the (state championship).

“They have outstanding speed, and enough bigger linemen to attack you through their defense.”

Whigham said the keys to tonight’s game lie in the running game.

“We’re a running football team,” he said. “No. 1, the physical part, and No. 2 it keeps the ball away from the other team. We’re going to try and play keep away, control the clock and get in the ball game late. If we do that, then we’ll feel good about our chances.”

Kickoff at Channel-Lee Stadium is at 7 p.m.