Brad Potts opened the scoring with a powerful strike before Ben Whiteman made it two with a bending free kick before half time. Tom Cannon made it three for PNE as they coasted to their win, with Jerry Yates turning home a late consolation.
The win saw Preston go within five points of the play-off places, with Millwall and Blackburn Rovers – both five points ahead of them in fifth and sixth – still to come this season.
Here’s how we rated the PNE players on the day...
9. Daniel Johnson - 8
He was back to playing the game in slow motion on Saturday, seemingly having longer on it than anyone else out there. Glided past Blackpool's players and kept a cool head. Photo: CameraSport - Rich Linley
10. Alvaro Fernandez - 7
His link up and appreciation of Johnson down the left only lifts his performance. We did not see lots of his normally marauding runs forward but he showed great discipline in defence and helped others shine. Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd
11. Troy Parrott - 7
It didn't seem like it would fall for Troy Parrott at times but the Irishman got into some good areas to link things up. Photo: CameraSport - Alex Dodd
12. Tom Cannon - 7
Saturday's derby is the first major one the 20-year-old has played in and he did not look over-awed by the occasion. There were a few issues with his decisions at times but not the one to put the ball in the back of the net. Another huge step forward and three in four now. Photo: CameraSport - Rich Linley