Knights look to continue momentum on the road as the Danes hunt for their first victory

Scouting the Knights

The River Ridge Knights got a standout performance from running back Micah Pugh last Friday, as he powered the offense with 165 rushing yards and a touchdown. True to Coach Collins’ preseason promise, the Knights leaned on a ground attack, showing they are committed to getting back to a run-first philosophy. Quarterback Hunter Lockerman kept the passing game steady, throwing for 136 yards and a touchdown, while River Ridge’s special teams added two touchdowns of their own. Making big plays has always been a hallmark of Collins’ teams, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see that trend continue this Friday night.

The Knights’ secondary will be tested against Denmark’s explosive receiving duo of Kam Jennings and Michael Palmieri. Containing these weapons will be key if River Ridge wants to control the game tempo. At the same time, River Ridge will look to special teams for game-changing plays, as they’ve demonstrated they can flip momentum quickly.

Scouting the Danes

Denmark is still smarting from last week’s narrow loss to Sequoyah, a game in which they controlled most of the action before a late Chiefs touchdown sealed the defeat. First-year quarterback Evan Jones showed poise, connecting on several big plays with Jennings and Palmieri. Jones finished the game with 239 passing yards and 1-TD. This week, Denmark will again look to strike through the air, while also mixing in the run to keep the Knights defense honest. Last week, senior running back Noah laban was limited to 14 yards on 10 carries. Denmark’s defense has been a strength, holding Sequoyah to 24 points — two touchdowns better than last year’s performance against the Chiefs — and they will be asked to slow down River Ridge’s dominant ground game.

Pundit's Pick

Halftime adjustments could decide the outcome. Pugh has proven he can carry the Knights if needed, but Denmark will test River Ridge’s ability to adapt. Pressure on Jones will be critical; if the Knights’ front can disrupt the Danes’ rhythm, it could swing the game.

Expect Denmark to make a few more explosive plays through the air this week, particularly if they can exploit River Ridge’s secondary. If they do, it may be the difference in a tightly contested matchup.

Prediction: Denmark by 4 at home.