Knights Look to Regain Momentum Against Winless Greyhounds

Scouting the Greyhounds

The Pope Greyhounds are still searching for their first win of the season after being held to just one touchdown against a high-powered Sprayberry team last week. Growing pains have been evident for the young and inexperienced offense, which is averaging just 11.5 points per game, while the defense has struggled to keep pace, allowing 39.5 points per contest.

The return of senior Ethan Alterman has been a bright spot for Pope’s ground game.

Alterman, who missed the second game of the season, gives the Greyhounds experience in the backfield alongside freshman Ivan Darden Jr. (231 yards, 2-TDs). Together, they form a one-two punch Pope hopes to lean on to establish some offensive rhythm. Junior quarterback Hudson Marinko continues to grow into his role, having thrown for 373 yards and 2 touchdowns so far this season. His top target has been sophomore Luc McLendon, who leads the team with 6 catches for 193 yards. Defensively, the Greyhounds are led by Michael Howell (13 total tackles) and Connor Oryan (11 total tackles), who have both been key in trying to stabilize a unit that has been tested early and often.

Scouting the Knights

The River Ridge Knights are also hungry for their first region victory after letting a late lead slip away in a tough loss to Woodstock. Last week’s struggles in the ground game were uncharacteristic, as they were limited to just 43 team rushing yards. On the season, however, River Ridge has been much more balanced, averaging 174.5 rushing yards and 148.3 passing yards per game. Senior quarterback Hunter Lockerman has been steady, throwing for 593 yards, 3 touchdowns, and just 1 interception. The receiving corps is paced by Sam Vincent (15 receptions, 190 yards, 1 TD), while Eli Boldenand Arden Redmond have combined for 244 yards and 2 scores, giving Lockerman multiple options through the air.

Defensively, the Knights boast a strong front seven. Matthew Burdette (43 tackles) and Wyatt McCarty (41 tackles)have been tackling machines, while Harris Deriso (5 sacks) anchors the pass rush. In the secondary, Andrew Rowe has been a playmaker with 3 interceptions, giving River Ridge a reliable presence on the back end.

Pundit's Pick

For Pope, the key will be finding ways to slow down River Ridge’s fast, attacking linebackers. The Greyhounds must establish the run with Alterman and Darden to set up opportunities for Marinko to throw downfield. On the other side, River Ridge is expected to get back to their bread and butter with a heavy dose of the running game to control the clock and wear down Pope’s defense. Special teams could also play a role, as the Knights have already shown the ability to swing momentum in that phase of the game.

Prediction: Knights by 28.