Any matchup with Oscar Smith is a tough one for Southeastern District teams.

Lakeland High School was the most recent example of how hard it is to beat the Tigers. With a 63-6 loss, the Cavaliers fell to 0-4. It was a tough week last week for the Cavs, having to go from a rival game against the Warriors to Oscar Smith.

Lakeland fell behind 28-0 in the first quarter. In the second quarter, the Cavs were able to get on the board with a 70-yard touchdown, when Tyquan Holloman connected with Tahje Trotter. At halftime, Lakeland was down 56-6. It was one of those games Lakeland will look to move on from quickly.

“That was just a tough one,” Coach Kevin Knight said. “Things didn’t go our way. It was probably one of the worst losses we’ve had since I’ve been here. But we are going to have to move past it.”

Through their first four games, Lakeland has played teams capable of making state championship runs. Indian River High School, Nansemond River High School and Oscar Smith are all contenders for a state title in their respective regions. With Lakeland being a Class 3 Region A school, it’s a tough matchup every week in the Southeastern District.

“The toughest part of our schedule is hopefully behind us,” Knight said. “We have played teams the last few weeks who are considered to be the best in the state. Those type of games are going to make us better in the long run.”

Lakeland will face Western Branch High School at home at 7 p.m. Friday. The game represents a chance for Lakeland to get back on track in a normal week.