The defending 2A state champion Bassfield Yellowjackets flexed their muscles and clobbered their hosts, the Loyd Star Hornets, 56-8 Friday night in Region 7-2A football action at William E. “Sambo” Smith Field.

The Hornets scored their only touchdown in the fourth quarter, when freshmen running back Zac Arnold sprinted 30 yards to paydirt. Loyd Star was successful on the two-point conversion with Conner Allen throwing a halfback toss to Arnold.

Junior running back Peyton Flowers was the offensive leader for the Hornets with 33 yards rushing on 12 carries. Arnold contributed four rushes for 22 yards. La’Treal Smith had three carries for 31 yards.

Defensively, Flowers directed Loyd Star’s charge with 10 tackles. Tevin Lackland provided seven stops. Dustin Hart helped with eight tackles.

Loyd Star visits the Lincoln County and new region rivals, the West Lincoln Bears, next Friday as both teams battle for the last playoff spot in the region 7-2A race. Bassfield entertains East Marion. Kickoff is at 7 p.m.