River Ridge, Pope Set for Battle of Region Teams Seeking Momentum
Scouting the Greyhounds
The Pope Greyhounds got back to full strength last week as a couple of their standout players returned to the lineup after brief absences. The Greyhounds are now in search of their second region win as they look to qualify for the postseason for the first time since 2021. It has been a bit of a youth movement for Pope, as several underclassmen lead the offense in statistical categories.
However, senior quarterback Hudson Marinko has helped guide the young Hounds to their two wins, already besting their win total from a year ago. Marinko has thrown for 124 yards in his first two outings, while freshman Wyatt Schuck has thrown for 147 yards in relief. The ground game is where Pope has found most of its success this season, as Ivan Darden Jr. has rushed for 178 yards, Marinko has rushed for 284 yards, and junior Curt Mardis has rushed for 186 yards and a touchdown through the first three games.
Meanwhile, Luc McClendon has been the go-to receiver with nine receptions for 137 yards and a touchdown through the first three games. Defensively, Pope turned in its best effort of the season last week, allowing just 14 points. On the season, Pope is averaging 17.5 points per game while allowing 24.7.
Scouting the Knights
The River Ridge Knights will look to rebound this week after getting downed by Sequoyah on the road last week. The Knights were overwhelmed by the Chiefs and really could not get anything going in any phase of the ballgame. Through their first three games, River Ridge is averaging 195.7 yards per game through the air and 95.3 yards per game on the ground.
Much of the offense has depended on senior quarterback Hunter Lockerman, who has thrown for 578 yards and five touchdowns while rushing for 137 yards and a touchdown. The offense has been limited by the absence of talented playmaker Micah Pugh. Meanwhile, through the first three games, Hunter McCoy (8 receptions, 186 yards, 1 TD) and Andrew Rowe (4 receptions, 154 yards, 2 TDs) continue to lead the Knights' receiving corps. River Ridge is averaging 15.3 points per game while allowing 47 points per game.
Keys to the Game
Pope
Keep running the football: Pope's ground game has been its biggest source of production and should remain a focal point.
Take care of the football: Avoid giving River Ridge short fields and extra opportunities.
Continue the youth movement: Pope's young playmakers have stepped up, and another strong performance from its underclassmen could be key.
Pressure Lockerman: Make the Knights uncomfortable and force them to find answers beyond their senior quarterback.
River Ridge
Stop the run: The Knights have to slow down Marinko, Darden and Mardi to prevent Pope from controlling the game.
Establish the ground game: River Ridge needs more production on the ground to take some pressure off Hunter Lockerman.
Protect the football: The Knights cannot afford to give Pope additional possessions, especially if the Greyhounds establish the run.
Start fast: After struggling against Sequoyah, River Ridge needs to find some early offensive rhythm and build confidence.
Pundit's Pick
The Knights' run defense will have to be at its best if they are going to slow down this emerging Pope team. Not only will River Ridge's run defense have to be solid, but the Knights will also have to find a way to generate more production from the ground game. Pope is a team that is starting to play with some confidence, and we believe that helps get the Greyhounds over the edge this week.
Prediction: Pope by 6
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