After nine long months, it is finally time to warm up the Friday Night Lights again. With the VHSL debuting a blockbuster realignment next fall, this season will represent the end of many traditional rivalries across the Roanoke/Lynchburg area. As the curtain rises on the 2016 campaign, over 40 teams in our region will look to begin their seasons on a positive note. Former Glenvar quarterback Zack Clifford will be our guest picker for the opening Friday night.
With that mind, let’s take a closer look at this week’s slate in the 540 and the 434.
Co- Game of the Week: Amherst at Salem:
While the first week of the season rarely brings about many fireworks, Friday’s clash between Amherst and Salem will go a long way in deciding the pecking order in the 4A North Region. This contest will pit together arguably the top Lynchburg area team in Amherst, taking on Roanoke’s best in the Salem Spartans.
Following a breakout season last fall, the Lancers might be the oldest team in the state, with 28 seniors and 22 juniors on their roster. Now fully healthy, running back Jerry Page and quarterback Keshon Turner will be one of 4A’s top one-two punches coming out of the backfield. Page, Turner, and shifty tailback Jordan Woodfolk will have the benefit of operating behind a veteran offensive line.
Junior tackle David Braxton and company will have the difficult task of opening holes against Salem’s imposing defense. De’Angelo Ramsey as one of the most athletic defensive ends in the Roanoke area. With the 6-foot-, 211-pound Ramsey containing everything on the outside, reliable tackler Riley Fox rarely lets anything get past the middle of the defense.
The Spartans face a number of talented offenses each and every year, but head coach Steve Magenbauer’s troops excel in making teams one dimensional. Amherst has several talented receivers, but the running game is the heart and soul of the Lancers’ attack. If Salem can limit Page and Woodfolk on the ground, look for Ramsey and company to turn up the heat in the pass rush.
It’s become cliché, but the turnover battle will be huge in this game, and Salem’s defense has been known to take the ball away from people. I look for the Spartan defense and senior quarterback Noah Beckley to shine in a huge season-opening triumph.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Salem 34, Amherst 16
Zack’s Pick: Salem
Co- Game of the Week: Glenvar at Galax:
Our other game of the week features the 2015 1A State Champion Galax Maroon Tide welcoming in the 2014 2A State Champs from Glenvar. Both teams will be counting on a host of newcomers this season, along with a bevy of upperclassmen that have been waiting several years for this moment.
Jacob Mullins will take the reigns of the high-powered Glenvar offense, after watching Clifford dazzle stadiums around the region for the past several years. Mullins will have a veteran line and a deep group of receivers to work with, but the senior will face a difficult inaugural start against this stingy Galax front-seven. The Maroon Tide will trot out a host of key returners on defense, that held high-powered Riverheads to an astounding six points in last December’s title game.
Galax will need to find a new primary ball-carrier to replace all-everything tailback Charles Harris, but Mark Dixon’s rushing attack is always deadly, no matter who is carrying the ball. If Tide can frustrate Mullins and keep the Highlanders off of the scoreboard early, I look for quarterback Carson Orton and the offense to control the clock and dominate the entire possession throughout the contest.
This will be a good early test for both teams, but Galax appears to be more of a known commodity entering the season, and I look for the Tide to snap a three-game losing streak against Glenvar. Sorry Zack.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Galax 23, Glenvar 13
Zack’s Pick: Glenvar
Other Roanoke Action:
Northside at Pulaski County:
Former Northside assistant Tyler Brown will begin his first season as the head coach of the Vikings. His prize? Games against Pulaski, Heritage, Salem, and Lord Botetourt in the first five weeks of the season. Yikes! The good news is that quarterback/all-everything athlete Tra Jackson is back for his fourth year in the program. Jackson, along with running back Andrew Kouns and wide receiver Dawson Lee gives Northside plenty to work with the offensive side on the ball.
The defense is another story. The Vikings still have talent, but for the first time in many years, Northside will not be able to lean on a Division I lineman to contain everything up front. The re-tooled unit’s first test will be a Pulaski squad that is coming off of a 9-2 finish last fall. Quarterback Bryant Grubb has a cannon of an arm, and senior tailback Hunter Thomas is a threat every time that he touches the ball.
I look for Thomas to have a big outing on the ground and in the return game against Northside, which will open the door for Grubb to use his arm when-needed.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Pulaski 26, Northside 14
Zack’s Pick: Northside
William Byrd at Cave Spring:
The Blue Ridge District will get a win over the River Ridge in week one, courtesy of William Byrd. Reigning Conference 24 Player of the Year, running back Larry Basham is back and looking to add to his already lengthy list of accomplishments with the Terriers. Basham can flat out run… Everyone knows that. The question is, can long-time coach Jeff Highfill add another dimension to this Byrd offense?
Speaking of new dimensions on offense, Cave Spring head coach Tim Fulton made some changes to his staff in the offseason in an attempt to reinvigorate the Knights’ offense. Cave Spring averaged just 15.4 points per game last fall, and Fulton is looking to help the Knights keep pace with the offensive powers in the River Ridge District. William Byrd will play both Salem and Jefferson in the coming weeks, and I look for Basham to have a big game running the ball to help ready the Terriers for the September grind.
Drew’s Score Prediction: William Byrd 37, Cave Spring 13
Zack’s Pick: William Byrd
James River at Lord Botetourt:
Typically, a team takes a step back when it loses its starting quarterback, top two running backs, and two emotional leaders on defense. That will not be the case in Daleville this season. Despite graduating the winningest senior class in school history, head coach Jamie Harless will field a team that is capable of making another run at a State Championship. The Cavaliers are strong in the trenches, and posses likely the top offensive and defensive linemen in the Blue Ridge District in Noah Overstreet (DL) and Jesse Hanson (OL).
Hanson and the rest of the mammoth offensive front will look to make room for new starting quarterback Grayson Bond. The 6-foot-4, 215-pound Bond is a load to bring down, and with nearly every wide receiver returning from the 2015 runner-up squad, the senior will have plenty of targets to throw to.
It is a shame that this regular season series is coming to an end, but the final rendition of the rivalry will provide a talented James River squad with a measuring stick that it can use for the rest of the season.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Lord Botetourt 38, James River 7
Zack’s Pick: Lord Botetourt
Jefferson Forest at William Fleming:
Jefferson Forest head coach Bob Christmas has not lost a regular season game since returning to the area in 2014. Christmas has been successful for a number of reasons, chief among them being his ability to take raw speed and athleticism, and move his personnel around to different positions. The two-time Seminole District champion coach will face one of the biggest challenges of his career this fall. JF returns just two starters from last seasons’ squad, and Christmas is still in the process of piecing together his new-look wishbone attack.
Senior rushers Matt Crist and Morgan Marshall have been waiting in the wings for several years, and the duo will look to take the pressure off of whomever wins the starting quarterback job. The schedule heats up in the coming weeks, but the Cavaliers should be able to have their way against an equally-inexperienced William Fleming unit.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Jefferson Forest 41, William Fleming 15
Zack’s Pick: Jefferson Forest
Turner Ashby at Staunton River:
People are still talking about Staunton River’s thrilling 85-79 victory over Western Albemarle in the second round of the 2015 3A West playoffs. The Golden Eagles might not eclipse 80 points again for awhile, but there is no reason to believe that Chuck Poston’s club won't be just as deadly this fall. Grayson Overstreet returns after rushing for over 2,500 yards and 38 touchdowns last fall. As if stopping Overstreet in the single-wing wasn’t difficult enough, opponents will also need to be mindful of running back/wide receiver TJ Tester. Staunton River will look to be a major player in the Blue Ridge District and the 3A West Region this fall, and it will all begin with a route of on overmatched Turner Ashby.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Staunton River 44, Turner Ashby 20
Zack’s Pick: Staunton River
Parry McCluer at Rockbridge County
The outcome of this game is not in doubt. The only question is, which one of Parry McCluer’s three-star running backs will finish with more yards? Former Auburn standout Jeremy Nelson, who is closing in becoming the VHSL’s all-time leading rusher, joins top running backs K.J. Cook and Marcellius Dawson in an absolutely loaded backfield. There might not be a defense in all of 1A that can silence all three of these running backs all at once.
On the opposite sideline, former Eastern Montgomery head whistle Mark Poston takes over a Rockbridge County program that has won just three games in the last three seasons. Poston has built a winner in this area before, but he has a steep hill to climb with the Wildcats in the rugged Blue Ridge District. Look for a big night from McCluer’s three-headed monster.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Parry McCluer 40, Rockbridge County 20
Zack’s Pick: Parry McCluer
Covington at Alleghany:
First-year Covington head coach will look to help his program reclaim the Brackman Cup. Jones will inherit a veteran Cougar squad that graduated just five seniors from the 2015 team. Quarterback Tyler Dressler has experienced plenty of ups and downs throughout his Covington career, and I like the battle-tested senior to lead his team to a hard-fought win on the road.
Drew’s Score: Covington 23, Alleghany 20
Zack’s Pick: Alleghany
Giles at Blacksburg:
This has been one of the most fun early season tilts in our area in the past several years. Never fazed by any team regardless of class, Giles County has won five straight against the 3A Bruins. Blacksburg quarterback Isaac Johnston is gone, but his younger brother Grant appears to be the heir apparent under center. Like his older brother, Grant Johnston is a gunslinger, and a perfect fit for the Bruins’ new-look spread offense. On the other side of the ball, the Bruin defense showed well against Northside in a scrimmage earlier this month. If the Blacksburg defense can equal the play of its counterpart, the Bruins could be a player in 3A West this fall.
It is difficult to pick against a program that has lost just three games in three years, but Blacksburg has the type of athletes that the Spartans do not see every day. The Bruins are well-versed in Chad Wells’ offensive scheme by now, and I look for Blacksburg to eek out a huge confidence-building win to start the season.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Blacksburg 30, Giles 27
Zack’s Pick: Giles
Floyd County at Carroll County:
This game became a lot more interesting earlier this week, when Floyd County head coach Winfred Beale received a one-game suspension. Both Floyd and Carroll County will trot out young teams this fall, and will likely struggle in their respective districts. I look for the Buffalos to win this one in the fourth quarter and steal a road win against an undermanned Cavalier bunch.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Floyd 19, Carroll County 13
Zack’s Pick: Floyd County
Hidden Valley at Patrick Henry:
There are two major questions surrounding the Hidden Valley football program. Can the offense pick up where it left off last fall? And can the defense rebound from a dreadful 2015 season? If the answer is “yes” to both questions, head coach Scott Weaver might have something special. Quarterback Jonah Fitzgerald is back following a 2,500-yard campaign through the air. Senior wideout Ryan Mitchell will be Fitzgerald’s favorite target, and the Navy commit is capable of making plays on both sides of the ball. Mitchell and the Titan defense will look to stop a Patrick Henry offense that is searching for an identity. The Patriots have plenty of speed, but they must replace dynamic senior quarterback Quishon Calfee. Calfee led PHS to four consecutive wins over Hidden Valley during his career. Patrick Henry certainly has history on its side, bit until I see somebody not-named Calfee make plays for the Patriots, I’m going with Mitchell and the Titans.
Lynchburg Action:
Drew’s Score Prediction: Hidden Valley 35, Patrick Henry 27
Zack’s Pick: Patrick Henry
Brookville at Albemarle:
Last August, an inexperienced Albemarle team travelled to Lynchburg and tested itself against a veteran Brookville squad. This time around, the shoe is on the other foot, and head coach Jon Meeks will take his young Bees on the road to battle an older and wiser group from AHS. First-year starting quarterback Tanner Bernard is receiving rave reviews from those inside the Brookville program, but the junior will face a tough task in his inaugural start. If new starting nose guard Jalin Callahan and company get put pressure on Albemarle quarterback J’Quan Anderson and force him into deep drop backs, the Bees can win the field position battle again.
Ultimately I expect Albemarle head coach Brandon Isiah to look to use wide receiver Tyquan Rose in a number of different ways this season, beginning tonight. Rose, who will be the best athlete on the field, is a threat to score every time he touches the ball, and I look for the senior to help win this game on special teams. Albemarle won’t shutout the Bees, but I look for the Patriots to return the favor from last year.
Drew’s Prediction: Albemarle 24, Brookville 17
Zack’s Pick: Albemarle
Liberty at Franklin County:
Can Liberty be a player in the always-tough Seminole District? Only time will tell. With early games against Franklin County and Rockbridge, we likely will not learn very much about this Minutemen squad for a few weeks. Running back Tyrone Staples has big shoes to fill on offense, but the senior tailback will at least be able to begin the season with a clean bill of health unlike last year. While Liberty is sound on offense, the Minutemen will need to fix their defense to make any noise in the Seminole this year. On the other side, Franklin County averaged just 9.8 games last year. The pedestrian Eagle offense will allow Liberty head coach Chris Watts to work out the kinks before the schedule heats up.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Liberty 42, Franklin County 12
Zack’s Pick: Liberty
E.C. Glass at Harrisonburg:
This will be a battle of two programs that enter from opposite directions. Last fall, Harrisonburg improved its win total by five games, en route to earning a share of the Valley District title. Quarterback A.C. White helped lead the turnaround effort, and the junior will look to take the Blue Streaks even higher this fall. Meanwhile, E.C. Glass is still licking its wounds following a dismal 1-9 campaign last fall, and head coach Jeff Woody’s team still has several holes to fill. Glass should be better this fall, particularly on offense. Junior quarterback Sackett Wood has a year of Woody’s system under his belt, and the talented signal-caller will have some help at the skill positions. The Hilltoppers will be able to put up points this fall. The question is, will they be able to stop anybody consistently? This game presents Harrisonburg with a big opportunity to find a new primary ball carrier to replace Devin Meadley.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Harrisonburg 37, E.C. Glass 18
Zack’s Pick: E.C. Glass
Tuntstal at Rustburg:
Other than Western Albemarle, there might not be a team in 3A with a bigger chip on its shoulder heading into the season than the Rustburg Red Devils. Head coach Jack Baker’s group fell to Abingdon in absolutely heartbreaking fashion in the opening round of the 2015 playoffs. Rustburg has been a solid team for the last couple of years, but it has struggled to keep pace with the elite programs in the Seminole District. Is this the year that the Red Devils take it to the next level? We’ll see. In the meantime, Rustburg will test itself against a tough Tunstal squad to open the season. Last year’s 35-0 Red Devil victory was the coming out party for quarterback Dante Jones, and I like the senior quarterback to spread out the Trojans once more.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Rustburg 30, Tuntstal 10
Zack’s Pick: Tuntstal
The Valley
Fort Defiance at Buffalo Gap:
Buffalo Gap quarterback Lucas Wheeler led his team to within a game of the state championship last fall. Wheeler will return this season, but 17 seniors that helped the accurate signal -caller get there will not. The Bison punished teams on the ground last fall, but head coach Andy Cline will be looking for a new primary ball carrier this season. Cline will have a bevy of ‘backs to choose from, including Dylan Thompson, Carter Rivenberg, and Jacob Thompson. A Fort Defiance squad that surrendered over 50 points per game last fall will provide the head Bison with a chance to begin to work out a rotation in the backfield.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Buffalo Gap 49, Fort Defiance 6
Zack’s Pick: Fort Defiance
East Rockingham at Spotswood:
Spotswood has plenty of historic foes in the Valley District, but this nearby rivalry is always fun, regardless of what sport is being played. The Trailblazers are undefeated against East Rock in football, but the 2016 season could represent a changing of the guard. Jaylen McNair has had a big offseason, and the talented senior has an array of talented wideouts, including Javon Butler. If East Rock can slow down Brady Dodson and limit the big ‘back from keeping drives alive, then the Wildcats will be able to dictate the pace of this one. I’m going with McNair and East Rock in a close one.
Drew’s Score Prediction: East Rockingham 24, Spotswood 21
Zack’s Pick: Spotswood
Wilson Memorial at Waynesboro:
Waynesboro finally ended a decade of futility against rival Wilson Memorial last season. Typically, one of the top programs in its classification, the Green Hornets could never overcome the massive personnel losses of its 2014 state runner-up squad last year. Wilson will be much better this fall, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. The Green Hornets will have their hands full with athletic quarterback DaJuan Moore, but I like Jermimah Major’s more experienced group to rattle the first-time starter, and gain a measure of revenge.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Wilson Memorial 20, Waynesboro 14
Zack’s Pick: Wilson Memorial
Broadway at Western Albemarle:
The good news for Broadway is that Western Albemarle running back Oliver Herndon is now at Washington & Lee, and will not be there to bully the Gobblers once again. Kirk Rygol will be in his third season running the Broadway offense, but the experienced senior will face his toughest test of the year against Western’s elite defensive ends Noah Crutchfield and Luke Tenuta. It won’t be as lopsided as last season, as the Warriors are dealing with massive personnel losses, but I like WAHS to win this one with its defense.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Western Albemarle 23, Broadway 13
Zack’s Pick: Western Albemarle
Other Predictions:
Robert E Lee at Riverheads:
Drew’s Score Prediction: Riverheads 39, Robert E Lee 23
Zack’s Pick: Riverheads
Nelson Coutny at Luray:
Drew’s Score Prediction: Luray 35, Nelson 0
Zack’s Pick: Luray
East Hardy (WV) AT Page County:
Drew’s Score Prediction: East Hardy 28, Page 6
Zack’s Pick: Page
Stonewall Jackson at Strasburg:
Drew’s Score Prediction: Strasburg 36, Stonewall Jackson 7
Zack’s Pick: Strasburg
Eastern Montgomery at Bath County:
Drew’s Score Prediction: Eastern Montgomery 21, Bath County 10
Zack’s Pick: Bath County
Narrows at Auburn
Drew’s Score Prediction: Auburn 30, Narrows 20
Zack’s Pick: Auburn
George Wythe at Radford:
Drew’s Score Prediction: Radford 30, George Wythe 29
Zack’s Pick: Radford
Bland at Craig County:
Drew’s Score Prediction: Bland 22, Craig 0
Zack’s Pick: Bland
With that mind, let’s take a closer look at this week’s slate in the 540 and the 434.
Co- Game of the Week: Amherst at Salem:
While the first week of the season rarely brings about many fireworks, Friday’s clash between Amherst and Salem will go a long way in deciding the pecking order in the 4A North Region. This contest will pit together arguably the top Lynchburg area team in Amherst, taking on Roanoke’s best in the Salem Spartans.
Following a breakout season last fall, the Lancers might be the oldest team in the state, with 28 seniors and 22 juniors on their roster. Now fully healthy, running back Jerry Page and quarterback Keshon Turner will be one of 4A’s top one-two punches coming out of the backfield. Page, Turner, and shifty tailback Jordan Woodfolk will have the benefit of operating behind a veteran offensive line.
Junior tackle David Braxton and company will have the difficult task of opening holes against Salem’s imposing defense. De’Angelo Ramsey as one of the most athletic defensive ends in the Roanoke area. With the 6-foot-, 211-pound Ramsey containing everything on the outside, reliable tackler Riley Fox rarely lets anything get past the middle of the defense.
The Spartans face a number of talented offenses each and every year, but head coach Steve Magenbauer’s troops excel in making teams one dimensional. Amherst has several talented receivers, but the running game is the heart and soul of the Lancers’ attack. If Salem can limit Page and Woodfolk on the ground, look for Ramsey and company to turn up the heat in the pass rush.
It’s become cliché, but the turnover battle will be huge in this game, and Salem’s defense has been known to take the ball away from people. I look for the Spartan defense and senior quarterback Noah Beckley to shine in a huge season-opening triumph.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Salem 34, Amherst 16
Zack’s Pick: Salem
Co- Game of the Week: Glenvar at Galax:
Our other game of the week features the 2015 1A State Champion Galax Maroon Tide welcoming in the 2014 2A State Champs from Glenvar. Both teams will be counting on a host of newcomers this season, along with a bevy of upperclassmen that have been waiting several years for this moment.
Jacob Mullins will take the reigns of the high-powered Glenvar offense, after watching Clifford dazzle stadiums around the region for the past several years. Mullins will have a veteran line and a deep group of receivers to work with, but the senior will face a difficult inaugural start against this stingy Galax front-seven. The Maroon Tide will trot out a host of key returners on defense, that held high-powered Riverheads to an astounding six points in last December’s title game.
Galax will need to find a new primary ball-carrier to replace all-everything tailback Charles Harris, but Mark Dixon’s rushing attack is always deadly, no matter who is carrying the ball. If Tide can frustrate Mullins and keep the Highlanders off of the scoreboard early, I look for quarterback Carson Orton and the offense to control the clock and dominate the entire possession throughout the contest.
This will be a good early test for both teams, but Galax appears to be more of a known commodity entering the season, and I look for the Tide to snap a three-game losing streak against Glenvar. Sorry Zack.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Galax 23, Glenvar 13
Zack’s Pick: Glenvar
Other Roanoke Action:
Northside at Pulaski County:
Former Northside assistant Tyler Brown will begin his first season as the head coach of the Vikings. His prize? Games against Pulaski, Heritage, Salem, and Lord Botetourt in the first five weeks of the season. Yikes! The good news is that quarterback/all-everything athlete Tra Jackson is back for his fourth year in the program. Jackson, along with running back Andrew Kouns and wide receiver Dawson Lee gives Northside plenty to work with the offensive side on the ball.
The defense is another story. The Vikings still have talent, but for the first time in many years, Northside will not be able to lean on a Division I lineman to contain everything up front. The re-tooled unit’s first test will be a Pulaski squad that is coming off of a 9-2 finish last fall. Quarterback Bryant Grubb has a cannon of an arm, and senior tailback Hunter Thomas is a threat every time that he touches the ball.
I look for Thomas to have a big outing on the ground and in the return game against Northside, which will open the door for Grubb to use his arm when-needed.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Pulaski 26, Northside 14
Zack’s Pick: Northside
William Byrd at Cave Spring:
The Blue Ridge District will get a win over the River Ridge in week one, courtesy of William Byrd. Reigning Conference 24 Player of the Year, running back Larry Basham is back and looking to add to his already lengthy list of accomplishments with the Terriers. Basham can flat out run… Everyone knows that. The question is, can long-time coach Jeff Highfill add another dimension to this Byrd offense?
Speaking of new dimensions on offense, Cave Spring head coach Tim Fulton made some changes to his staff in the offseason in an attempt to reinvigorate the Knights’ offense. Cave Spring averaged just 15.4 points per game last fall, and Fulton is looking to help the Knights keep pace with the offensive powers in the River Ridge District. William Byrd will play both Salem and Jefferson in the coming weeks, and I look for Basham to have a big game running the ball to help ready the Terriers for the September grind.
Drew’s Score Prediction: William Byrd 37, Cave Spring 13
Zack’s Pick: William Byrd
James River at Lord Botetourt:
Typically, a team takes a step back when it loses its starting quarterback, top two running backs, and two emotional leaders on defense. That will not be the case in Daleville this season. Despite graduating the winningest senior class in school history, head coach Jamie Harless will field a team that is capable of making another run at a State Championship. The Cavaliers are strong in the trenches, and posses likely the top offensive and defensive linemen in the Blue Ridge District in Noah Overstreet (DL) and Jesse Hanson (OL).
Hanson and the rest of the mammoth offensive front will look to make room for new starting quarterback Grayson Bond. The 6-foot-4, 215-pound Bond is a load to bring down, and with nearly every wide receiver returning from the 2015 runner-up squad, the senior will have plenty of targets to throw to.
It is a shame that this regular season series is coming to an end, but the final rendition of the rivalry will provide a talented James River squad with a measuring stick that it can use for the rest of the season.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Lord Botetourt 38, James River 7
Zack’s Pick: Lord Botetourt
Jefferson Forest at William Fleming:
Jefferson Forest head coach Bob Christmas has not lost a regular season game since returning to the area in 2014. Christmas has been successful for a number of reasons, chief among them being his ability to take raw speed and athleticism, and move his personnel around to different positions. The two-time Seminole District champion coach will face one of the biggest challenges of his career this fall. JF returns just two starters from last seasons’ squad, and Christmas is still in the process of piecing together his new-look wishbone attack.
Senior rushers Matt Crist and Morgan Marshall have been waiting in the wings for several years, and the duo will look to take the pressure off of whomever wins the starting quarterback job. The schedule heats up in the coming weeks, but the Cavaliers should be able to have their way against an equally-inexperienced William Fleming unit.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Jefferson Forest 41, William Fleming 15
Zack’s Pick: Jefferson Forest
Turner Ashby at Staunton River:
People are still talking about Staunton River’s thrilling 85-79 victory over Western Albemarle in the second round of the 2015 3A West playoffs. The Golden Eagles might not eclipse 80 points again for awhile, but there is no reason to believe that Chuck Poston’s club won't be just as deadly this fall. Grayson Overstreet returns after rushing for over 2,500 yards and 38 touchdowns last fall. As if stopping Overstreet in the single-wing wasn’t difficult enough, opponents will also need to be mindful of running back/wide receiver TJ Tester. Staunton River will look to be a major player in the Blue Ridge District and the 3A West Region this fall, and it will all begin with a route of on overmatched Turner Ashby.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Staunton River 44, Turner Ashby 20
Zack’s Pick: Staunton River
Parry McCluer at Rockbridge County
The outcome of this game is not in doubt. The only question is, which one of Parry McCluer’s three-star running backs will finish with more yards? Former Auburn standout Jeremy Nelson, who is closing in becoming the VHSL’s all-time leading rusher, joins top running backs K.J. Cook and Marcellius Dawson in an absolutely loaded backfield. There might not be a defense in all of 1A that can silence all three of these running backs all at once.
On the opposite sideline, former Eastern Montgomery head whistle Mark Poston takes over a Rockbridge County program that has won just three games in the last three seasons. Poston has built a winner in this area before, but he has a steep hill to climb with the Wildcats in the rugged Blue Ridge District. Look for a big night from McCluer’s three-headed monster.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Parry McCluer 40, Rockbridge County 20
Zack’s Pick: Parry McCluer
Covington at Alleghany:
First-year Covington head coach will look to help his program reclaim the Brackman Cup. Jones will inherit a veteran Cougar squad that graduated just five seniors from the 2015 team. Quarterback Tyler Dressler has experienced plenty of ups and downs throughout his Covington career, and I like the battle-tested senior to lead his team to a hard-fought win on the road.
Drew’s Score: Covington 23, Alleghany 20
Zack’s Pick: Alleghany
Giles at Blacksburg:
This has been one of the most fun early season tilts in our area in the past several years. Never fazed by any team regardless of class, Giles County has won five straight against the 3A Bruins. Blacksburg quarterback Isaac Johnston is gone, but his younger brother Grant appears to be the heir apparent under center. Like his older brother, Grant Johnston is a gunslinger, and a perfect fit for the Bruins’ new-look spread offense. On the other side of the ball, the Bruin defense showed well against Northside in a scrimmage earlier this month. If the Blacksburg defense can equal the play of its counterpart, the Bruins could be a player in 3A West this fall.
It is difficult to pick against a program that has lost just three games in three years, but Blacksburg has the type of athletes that the Spartans do not see every day. The Bruins are well-versed in Chad Wells’ offensive scheme by now, and I look for Blacksburg to eek out a huge confidence-building win to start the season.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Blacksburg 30, Giles 27
Zack’s Pick: Giles
Floyd County at Carroll County:
This game became a lot more interesting earlier this week, when Floyd County head coach Winfred Beale received a one-game suspension. Both Floyd and Carroll County will trot out young teams this fall, and will likely struggle in their respective districts. I look for the Buffalos to win this one in the fourth quarter and steal a road win against an undermanned Cavalier bunch.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Floyd 19, Carroll County 13
Zack’s Pick: Floyd County
Hidden Valley at Patrick Henry:
There are two major questions surrounding the Hidden Valley football program. Can the offense pick up where it left off last fall? And can the defense rebound from a dreadful 2015 season? If the answer is “yes” to both questions, head coach Scott Weaver might have something special. Quarterback Jonah Fitzgerald is back following a 2,500-yard campaign through the air. Senior wideout Ryan Mitchell will be Fitzgerald’s favorite target, and the Navy commit is capable of making plays on both sides of the ball. Mitchell and the Titan defense will look to stop a Patrick Henry offense that is searching for an identity. The Patriots have plenty of speed, but they must replace dynamic senior quarterback Quishon Calfee. Calfee led PHS to four consecutive wins over Hidden Valley during his career. Patrick Henry certainly has history on its side, bit until I see somebody not-named Calfee make plays for the Patriots, I’m going with Mitchell and the Titans.
Lynchburg Action:
Drew’s Score Prediction: Hidden Valley 35, Patrick Henry 27
Zack’s Pick: Patrick Henry
Brookville at Albemarle:
Last August, an inexperienced Albemarle team travelled to Lynchburg and tested itself against a veteran Brookville squad. This time around, the shoe is on the other foot, and head coach Jon Meeks will take his young Bees on the road to battle an older and wiser group from AHS. First-year starting quarterback Tanner Bernard is receiving rave reviews from those inside the Brookville program, but the junior will face a tough task in his inaugural start. If new starting nose guard Jalin Callahan and company get put pressure on Albemarle quarterback J’Quan Anderson and force him into deep drop backs, the Bees can win the field position battle again.
Ultimately I expect Albemarle head coach Brandon Isiah to look to use wide receiver Tyquan Rose in a number of different ways this season, beginning tonight. Rose, who will be the best athlete on the field, is a threat to score every time he touches the ball, and I look for the senior to help win this game on special teams. Albemarle won’t shutout the Bees, but I look for the Patriots to return the favor from last year.
Drew’s Prediction: Albemarle 24, Brookville 17
Zack’s Pick: Albemarle
Liberty at Franklin County:
Can Liberty be a player in the always-tough Seminole District? Only time will tell. With early games against Franklin County and Rockbridge, we likely will not learn very much about this Minutemen squad for a few weeks. Running back Tyrone Staples has big shoes to fill on offense, but the senior tailback will at least be able to begin the season with a clean bill of health unlike last year. While Liberty is sound on offense, the Minutemen will need to fix their defense to make any noise in the Seminole this year. On the other side, Franklin County averaged just 9.8 games last year. The pedestrian Eagle offense will allow Liberty head coach Chris Watts to work out the kinks before the schedule heats up.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Liberty 42, Franklin County 12
Zack’s Pick: Liberty
E.C. Glass at Harrisonburg:
This will be a battle of two programs that enter from opposite directions. Last fall, Harrisonburg improved its win total by five games, en route to earning a share of the Valley District title. Quarterback A.C. White helped lead the turnaround effort, and the junior will look to take the Blue Streaks even higher this fall. Meanwhile, E.C. Glass is still licking its wounds following a dismal 1-9 campaign last fall, and head coach Jeff Woody’s team still has several holes to fill. Glass should be better this fall, particularly on offense. Junior quarterback Sackett Wood has a year of Woody’s system under his belt, and the talented signal-caller will have some help at the skill positions. The Hilltoppers will be able to put up points this fall. The question is, will they be able to stop anybody consistently? This game presents Harrisonburg with a big opportunity to find a new primary ball carrier to replace Devin Meadley.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Harrisonburg 37, E.C. Glass 18
Zack’s Pick: E.C. Glass
Tuntstal at Rustburg:
Other than Western Albemarle, there might not be a team in 3A with a bigger chip on its shoulder heading into the season than the Rustburg Red Devils. Head coach Jack Baker’s group fell to Abingdon in absolutely heartbreaking fashion in the opening round of the 2015 playoffs. Rustburg has been a solid team for the last couple of years, but it has struggled to keep pace with the elite programs in the Seminole District. Is this the year that the Red Devils take it to the next level? We’ll see. In the meantime, Rustburg will test itself against a tough Tunstal squad to open the season. Last year’s 35-0 Red Devil victory was the coming out party for quarterback Dante Jones, and I like the senior quarterback to spread out the Trojans once more.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Rustburg 30, Tuntstal 10
Zack’s Pick: Tuntstal
The Valley
Fort Defiance at Buffalo Gap:
Buffalo Gap quarterback Lucas Wheeler led his team to within a game of the state championship last fall. Wheeler will return this season, but 17 seniors that helped the accurate signal -caller get there will not. The Bison punished teams on the ground last fall, but head coach Andy Cline will be looking for a new primary ball carrier this season. Cline will have a bevy of ‘backs to choose from, including Dylan Thompson, Carter Rivenberg, and Jacob Thompson. A Fort Defiance squad that surrendered over 50 points per game last fall will provide the head Bison with a chance to begin to work out a rotation in the backfield.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Buffalo Gap 49, Fort Defiance 6
Zack’s Pick: Fort Defiance
East Rockingham at Spotswood:
Spotswood has plenty of historic foes in the Valley District, but this nearby rivalry is always fun, regardless of what sport is being played. The Trailblazers are undefeated against East Rock in football, but the 2016 season could represent a changing of the guard. Jaylen McNair has had a big offseason, and the talented senior has an array of talented wideouts, including Javon Butler. If East Rock can slow down Brady Dodson and limit the big ‘back from keeping drives alive, then the Wildcats will be able to dictate the pace of this one. I’m going with McNair and East Rock in a close one.
Drew’s Score Prediction: East Rockingham 24, Spotswood 21
Zack’s Pick: Spotswood
Wilson Memorial at Waynesboro:
Waynesboro finally ended a decade of futility against rival Wilson Memorial last season. Typically, one of the top programs in its classification, the Green Hornets could never overcome the massive personnel losses of its 2014 state runner-up squad last year. Wilson will be much better this fall, particularly on the defensive side of the ball. The Green Hornets will have their hands full with athletic quarterback DaJuan Moore, but I like Jermimah Major’s more experienced group to rattle the first-time starter, and gain a measure of revenge.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Wilson Memorial 20, Waynesboro 14
Zack’s Pick: Wilson Memorial
Broadway at Western Albemarle:
The good news for Broadway is that Western Albemarle running back Oliver Herndon is now at Washington & Lee, and will not be there to bully the Gobblers once again. Kirk Rygol will be in his third season running the Broadway offense, but the experienced senior will face his toughest test of the year against Western’s elite defensive ends Noah Crutchfield and Luke Tenuta. It won’t be as lopsided as last season, as the Warriors are dealing with massive personnel losses, but I like WAHS to win this one with its defense.
Drew’s Score Prediction: Western Albemarle 23, Broadway 13
Zack’s Pick: Western Albemarle
Other Predictions:
Robert E Lee at Riverheads:
Drew’s Score Prediction: Riverheads 39, Robert E Lee 23
Zack’s Pick: Riverheads
Nelson Coutny at Luray:
Drew’s Score Prediction: Luray 35, Nelson 0
Zack’s Pick: Luray
East Hardy (WV) AT Page County:
Drew’s Score Prediction: East Hardy 28, Page 6
Zack’s Pick: Page
Stonewall Jackson at Strasburg:
Drew’s Score Prediction: Strasburg 36, Stonewall Jackson 7
Zack’s Pick: Strasburg
Eastern Montgomery at Bath County:
Drew’s Score Prediction: Eastern Montgomery 21, Bath County 10
Zack’s Pick: Bath County
Narrows at Auburn
Drew’s Score Prediction: Auburn 30, Narrows 20
Zack’s Pick: Auburn
George Wythe at Radford:
Drew’s Score Prediction: Radford 30, George Wythe 29
Zack’s Pick: Radford
Bland at Craig County:
Drew’s Score Prediction: Bland 22, Craig 0
Zack’s Pick: Bland
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