1 (tie). Poplar Bluff (4-2) ... The Mules looked like they are on the way to a season of .500 or better, but they survived winless Cape Central last week thanks only to a missed point-after conversion and a wide field goal attempt at the buzzer. The remaining schedule: Jackson, Farmington, at Sikeston, West Plains. Last week: 1.
1 (tie). Jackson (2-4) ... The defending champions of the SEMO North saw their crown taken away by Farmington in Week 6, but what a comeback effort against a potent team. The Indians were ripped up in the first half of the game, giving up 30 points, but charged back to take a 38-30 lead before yielding two late touchdowns. The second half could be a sign Indians are moving in the right direction at the right time. Last week:2.
1 (tie). Kennett (6-0) ... The perfect run continues, but the Indians didn't have it easy against a one-win Malden team. Having run the table of classes 1 and 2 teams, Class 3 Kennett steps up in class this week to host Class 4 Sikeston before beginning district play. Last week: 3.
4. Hayti (4-1) ... Had a bye last week. Plays at Scott City this Friday.
5. New Madrid County (4-2) ... Broke the tie at No. 5 in this list last week by rallying to beat Sikeston 40-29. Travels to Park Hills Central to try to give SEMO Conference's Class 3 teams a win in the Mineral Area (NMCC has won three in a row since losing to Potosi). Last week: 5 (tie).
Honorable mention
Sikeston (3-3) ... Won the first half 22-6, but couldn't hang on against New Madrid County. Last week: 5 (tie).
East Prairie (3-3) ... Drubbed Chaffee to reach the .500 mark and hosts winless Portageville last week. This is about the time of last year when M.C. Williams kicked it into another gear; if he has another gear this season, look out. Last week: Honorable mention.