Football preview

Published 4:03 am Friday, September 28, 2018

BUCKINGHAM (2-3) AT GOOCHLAND (4-0)

Kickoff: Friday, 7 p.m.

Last season: Bulldogs 24, Knights 7

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Sports editor’s note: The Bulldogs are expected to be the same as always — exhibitors of superb execution. They are technically sound, mistake-free and great in number.

Goochland has close to 800 students, which will likely push them up to Virginia High School League’s Class 3 next season.

The Bulldogs feature a Wing-T offense in two or three different formations. They utilize some misdirection, and they run the ball significantly but also work in the pass.

Players to watch on offense include all-region senior running back Perry Snead-Johnson, junior running back Dakhari Burgess and junior quarterback Devin McCray.

Goochland also has key contributors to note on the line, like all-region senior nose guard Jamal Carter, all-region junior guard Connor Duncan and senior left tackle Tyler May.

The Knights aren’t planning any huge changes to their usual style and game plan; they will be aiming to out-execute the Bulldogs.

It remains known whether or not Buckingham starting sophomore quarterback Gerry Toney will be able to return. He has been sidelined by injury for much of the season so far.

CUMBERLAND (0-3) AT NOTTOWAY (1-3)

Kickoff: Friday, 7 p.m.

Last season: Cougars 49, Dukes 14

Coach’s game notes: The Dukes have a difficult task ahead of them by any measure. Because of the schedule being rearranged due to Hurricane Florence, they must now take on two of the tougher teams in the district only three days apart. Preparation is also difficult as the Dukes are essentially scouting and practicing for Nottoway and Amelia at the same time.

The Cougars are a solid team with strong offensive and defensive lines. Their running backs are effective, led by senior Devonte Booth, one of the hardest runners in the district. Nottoway senior quarterback Cameron Reekes has been out due to injury, but Cumberland is preparing like he will play, just in case.

Meanwhile, Dukes star 6-foot-7-inch 290-pound senior lineman Christian Jackson could be out for the season after tearing his meniscus. Senior cornerback/wide receiver Noah Bland’s healing broken wrist will be re-evaluated soon.

CUMBERLAND AT AMELIA

Kickoff: Monday, 7 p.m.

Last season: Raiders 38, Dukes 14

Coach’s game notes: The Raiders enter their Friday night road game against Randolph-Henry High School (0-4) with a 4-0 record and feature one of the top programs in the James River District.

Their distinctive trait is that they throw the ball quite well. Senior quarterback Jalen Brown distributes to some speedy returning receivers, including 6-foot-2-inch senior Howard Divens and 6-3 senior Ziayahn Jackson. Senior Justin Wilson helps give Amelia’s offense good balance with his exceptionally hard running.

On defense, Raiders senior defensive end Justin Pollock is a standout.