Hibriten @ East Wilkes
Hibriten in the second yr of Ferris State-style offense with tons of weapons (Lipford has been putting in the work and its been contagious for the skill guys, RB transfer from Freedom helps, and depth from the WC decision + already big guys returning up front); Defensive Speed and Coverage is the only ? early they have. Still think this is a good tune-up work and won't be as nearly as close as it was last season. This bunch BELIEVES after their run last season, and have truly locked in focusing on fundamentals this offseason. Coach Mackey has a stable full of options, now its time to unleash them for week 1. My 4A pick that is going to make a deep run this season.
Hibriten 42, East Wilkes 14
RS Central vs McDowell
RS Central will be married into a form of triple option w/ RPO capabilities. Like always, will the coaches get out of the way of the talent in the locker room. This may be one of their most explosive rosters in a while, especially with some transfers and JV talent. Again injury bug slowed this train down some last year and was a set back for them, but this year its all about the skill guys and Holley back signal calling from the pocket. Expect big explosive plays from J Smith and power running from the big JV RB from last year. Ground and pound, then over the top. Hilltoppers will cruise in their first test of the year.
RS Central 35, McDowell 13
East Rutherford vs Asheville
East Rutherford will be tested early on with a powerhouse team that didn't lose much at all, but gained a ton. Asheville is scary on paper and has been generating tons of eyes this preseason already. This non-conference gauntlet will test ER tremendously, with multiple D1/D2 prospects and overall team depth. Wingo takes over the reigns of an already potent fast paced offensive unit while also playing some in the defensive secondary. Can the young skill and depth at RB help pace the Cavs in this uphill battle week one. If the defensive side of the ball still has two-way kids then this will end up a running clock. Tough start to the '26 campaign for the Cavs.
Asheville 56, East Rutherford 7
Chase vs Polk County
- Chase will be another year vested in the Sosebee era offense and will have the tempo/passing/screen cycle in a full court press on the Wolverines. Polk will yet again have a tough nose group but the depth will show up as more than likely they will have a ton of two way guys with special team responsibilities. The defense at Chase loaded up the barrel with the add of DC Thompson, he more than anyone knows what to expect from the Polk bunch. I expect lots of offensive yards, more in the air than on the ground. Cupcakes are fun to eat, just not to pay $8 and watch.
Chase 35, Polk County 14
Draughn vs Bunker Hill
Draughn will still be young but experience on the field from last season will prevail to help them throughout the season. Again depth will be key as they have to keep guess fresh that are going both ways. Bunker Hill has a solid group and this preseason they put themselves in position to be challenged early by some quality scrimmages. This game will be about finding positives to build on as the Wildcats progress into week 2.
Bunker Hill 28, Draughn 7
East Burke @ West Iredell
East Burke will bring a new approach defensively with the HC/DC changeover as they will have offensive talent to score points. Physicality won't be an issue for a battle hardened Cavalier group as they return alot of offensive production with a year of experience under their belts, but West Iredell has the machine operating already as they have several D1 & D2 recruits that have been generating a ton of buzz. Athletically East Burke will be fighting a battle to match the speed and athleticism those in the green/gold will have. Expect it to be a slow starter but think West Iredell races out unless a turnover bug shows up or those heat cramps.
West Iredell 42, East Burke 21
Patton vs Freedom
Patton will be up and excited for this game and it will be a buzz until the ball is kicked off. Another highly experienced and talented Patriots team will be geared up for another strong run this year. Patton will have some very seasoned guys especially considering their youth grade-wise. Patton will show up and compete, for the entire game. The explosive nature of Freedom will turn this into a boat race.
Freedom 49, Patton 0
