Georgiana approached 50 points for the second consecutive week as the Panthers roasted the Houston Academy Raiders 48-23.

But for head Georgiana football coach Ezell Powell, it was a hollow victory due to the numerous penalties the Panthers incurred.

“In some regards, we played better, Powell said.

“But I think we had more penalties tonight than we’ve had in a while. We made too many mistakes early in the ball game, and there were some drive-stalling and drive-ending penalties.”

A number of smaller penalties — receivers not declaring whether they’re on or off the ball and offsides — triggered a snowball effect that turned a number of third-and-short situations into punts.

But the Panthers (2-0) kept their composure in the second half of the contest, thanks largely to an unstoppable running game dominated by quarterback Jacquez Payton, and running backs Cameron Longmire and Sir Jalen Scott.

Payton finished with 11 carries for 121 yards and three touchdowns, Longmire racked up 151 yards across 15 carries, and Scott contributed 8 runs for a total of 81 yards.

However, even with two non-area wins under the Panthers’ belts, Powell isn’t convinced that the 2-0 start is evidence enough that Georgiana is ready for area play Friday.

“I think next week’s practice will be really important,” Powell said.

“It will give us a chance to iron out some things we still have work to do in, but we’ll just continue working on them to get better because our season doesn’t get any easier.”

The Panthers will host Florala for homecoming and the first area game of the season Friday at 7 p.m.