How easy we forget when important sports events occur that a year has already past in some cases. Today we will look at what came to pass through the eyes of this blog in 2016. We will work our way forward starting in January.
January:
Nash Central basketball player Josh Mullin score 39 points in a basketball game which was good enough to earn him Male North Carolina High School Athletic Association Performer of the week.
Northern Nash girls 33 straight Big East Conference win streak comes to a close after Fike wins 49-45
The Carolina Panthers win the NFC Championship beating Arizona 49-15
February:
Tarboro's Todd Gurley wins the NFC offensive Rookie of the Year award after rushing for 1106 yards ten touchdowns and a 4.8 per attempt average.
Carolina Panthers lose Super Bowl 24-10 to Denver.
Nash Central's Lady Bulldogs 4x400 Relay team wins the State indoor Championship. Team members were T'Keyah Macklin, Caresha Leonard, Anaiya Harris and Teona Hill.
Southern Nash Boys win Big East basketball tournament after a three way tie for first during regular season with Rocky Mount and Northern Nash.
Rocky Mount's Wilson Smith wins his second straight state championship in wrestling at 126 pounds
March:
Nash Central wins all of the Conference basketball awards. Josh Mullins Player of the Year boys. Renny Taylor Boys coach of the year. Robbie Allen girls player of the year and Terri Cash girls coach of the year.
The ACC gets six teams into the NCAA Sweet 16
North Carolina wins the Final Four semi final game over Indiana 101-86
April:
Carolina Stunned with a final shot in NCAA Basketball Championship game
Three former Gryphon Baseball players head off to minor league baseball. Brian Goodwin AAA Syracuse NY, Hobbs Johnson AA Buloxi MS, Benton Moss Port Charlotte FL. Collins Cuthrell headed to Florence Kentucky hoping to find a major league team.
MAY:
Three teams tie for Big East baseball 1st place Rocky Mount,Hunt and Northern Nash
Forest Bell receives a visit from Tom Suiter and wins the WRAL Extra Effort award
Baseball returns for Post 58 American legion Baseball after one year absence.
UNC Men's and Women's Lacrosse team wins NCAA National Championships
Southern Nash's Jaquay Mitchell the NC High School Athletic Associations state Championship in the Triple Jump
Rocky Mount's Sherrod Green wins the state championship in the shot put
Nash Central's girls win the 4 x400 relay team won the state championship. T'Keyah Macklin, Carisha Leonard Kiera Ashby and Myka Hedgepeth were the runners
Lander University returns to the NCAA Div II College world series in Cary with two coaches and a player who use to be Gryphons. "Baseball" Britt Johnson 3rd base coach, Jim Leggett Pitching coach and senior Thomas Berry DH.
Northern Nash's Rebekah Beal finds Tom Suiter back in the area as she wins the Extra Effort Award
June:
Tom Suiter announces his full retirement from WRAL-TV. The former Rocky Mount resident had spent his entire working career at WRAL after graduation from college.
John Haggerty a college baseball umpire from Nash County earns his way to the college world series as an umpire. He worked in every other game each day and called behind the plate in the Florida/Texas game.
Tarboro's Todd Gurley was voted on by other NFL players as the 22nd best player for the season ended in 2016. It was announce during NFL Networks Top 100 players of 2015
Brian Goodwin makes the International League All Star team
Tomorrow we will look at July through the end of the year.
Saturday, December 31, 2016
Friday, December 30, 2016
Brian Goodwin Keeps Plugging
Last year at this time Brian Goodwin was clinging on life support to any possible further baseball career after more than a year of injuries had drug his career from AAA to AA and just maybe out of baseball.
Healthy Goodwin traveled to Venezuela to play fall ball. The key word healthy Goodwin played well enough in South America to be invited to spring training to play on the big club the Washington Nationals. Hit 250 in the spring and was one of the last sent to AAA Syracuse. Remember he had finished the 2015 season back in AA so Brian was back on course and had stopped the downward backtrack in the minors.
Off to his best start in his minor league career Brian made the International League all Star team and scored the winning run against the Pacific Coast League. Finally the call.
Brian spent 15 days with the Big club when an injury made room.
His first major league hit and limited play and after his cup of coffee back to Syracuse.
Continued good play earned his second call to DC. The call came before the August 31st deadline for trades which meant when the September roster expansion occurred he was already on the roster and just might make the playoffs.
Good play at all three outfield positions made him valuable for playing any where in the outfield. Hitting 286 his last five weeks plus his first 15 days gave him a 286 average for his stay in DC.
Decisions of who needs to be on the roster for the first playoff series found Brian the odd man out.
Trea Turner is moving to short stop. Nationals have been wheeling and dealing and Brian is sent to Mexico for Winter ball and one more time to double check his play.
Today ends winter ball and Brian has played better than all of last season hitting 320. His strikeout ratio is 1 in 5 which is his best ever in pro ball. Life is good for Brian Goodwin and when he heads to spring training this year he expects to come out of spring training no worse than a member of the Washington Nationals.
High school basketball Thursday
Northern Nash 67 Eastern Wayne 52 Knights 12-2
Rocky Mount 75 West Johnston 55 Gryphons outscore WJ 28-4 in 2nd quarter
Wake Forest 51 Southern Nash 42
Fuquay Varina 51 Nash Central 48
Girls action
Nash Central 51 Clayton 46
Healthy Goodwin traveled to Venezuela to play fall ball. The key word healthy Goodwin played well enough in South America to be invited to spring training to play on the big club the Washington Nationals. Hit 250 in the spring and was one of the last sent to AAA Syracuse. Remember he had finished the 2015 season back in AA so Brian was back on course and had stopped the downward backtrack in the minors.
Off to his best start in his minor league career Brian made the International League all Star team and scored the winning run against the Pacific Coast League. Finally the call.
Brian spent 15 days with the Big club when an injury made room.
His first major league hit and limited play and after his cup of coffee back to Syracuse.
Continued good play earned his second call to DC. The call came before the August 31st deadline for trades which meant when the September roster expansion occurred he was already on the roster and just might make the playoffs.
Good play at all three outfield positions made him valuable for playing any where in the outfield. Hitting 286 his last five weeks plus his first 15 days gave him a 286 average for his stay in DC.
Decisions of who needs to be on the roster for the first playoff series found Brian the odd man out.
Trea Turner is moving to short stop. Nationals have been wheeling and dealing and Brian is sent to Mexico for Winter ball and one more time to double check his play.
Today ends winter ball and Brian has played better than all of last season hitting 320. His strikeout ratio is 1 in 5 which is his best ever in pro ball. Life is good for Brian Goodwin and when he heads to spring training this year he expects to come out of spring training no worse than a member of the Washington Nationals.
High school basketball Thursday
Northern Nash 67 Eastern Wayne 52 Knights 12-2
Rocky Mount 75 West Johnston 55 Gryphons outscore WJ 28-4 in 2nd quarter
Wake Forest 51 Southern Nash 42
Fuquay Varina 51 Nash Central 48
Girls action
Nash Central 51 Clayton 46
Thursday, December 29, 2016
No Thursday Night NFL
Twelve teams will play more football in the NFL next week while 20 this is it for this season and this week always brings on a quandary. Those team that know they are in are they going to play their main players while those already out of the playoffs are they mentally already in the off season? Last week 8-8 which brings my total for the year to 163-80.
Ravens @ Bengals: Baltimore is better 26-17
Texans at Titans; Losing your quarterback to a broken anything is bad. Texans win in Nashville 26-13
Panthers and Tampa: Might as well finish up a disappointing season with another one in Tampa 30-16 Bucs
Browns at Steelers: You won one don't expect two and if most of the main Steelers sit. 27-10 Steelers.
Cowboys At Eagles: Just might be a good time to let Romo play a half and get hurt again. Eagles 27 Boys are resting 24
Bills at Jets: Both teams backed it in. Jets 22 Bills 17
Bears at Vikings: Might be last game for Fox in Chicago. Vikes 27 Bears 24
Jags at Colts: Colts finish with a win 33 23
Pats Dolphins: Just like the Pats to not play any players Fish 26 Pats 23
Chiefs at Chargers: Chargers lost a couple of more player to IR last week. I'm waiting for a call. Chiefs 26 Chargers 20
Cardinals at Rams: rams waiting for next year. Cards 26 Rams 17
Raiders at Bronco's: This will be interesting to see how Raiders offense works against top defense with new quarterback. Bronco's 20 Raiders 16
Giants at Redskins: Redskins spoil Eli's day 26-21
Seahawks at 49'ers: Look out 9'ers on a one game winning streak. Oh, it was just the Rams Hawks 26 SF 20
Saints @ Falcons: Do I play or sit my stars. Falcons 30 Saints 24
Packers @ Lions: I think heart is now out of Lions Packers 26-24
Wednesday high school basketball action Rocky Mount fell behind by eight in the first quarter in the Cleveland high tournament but won all three of the remaining quarters to win their second game of the year 70-63 over Fuquay Varina. The Gryphons jump to 2-3
Northern Nash had a much better second night in Bunn scalding Durham School of the Arts 84-49. The Knights are now 11-2.
The Lady Gryphons have not been effected by the football playoffs played most of their games unlike the boy. More defense last night led the Gryphons to victory number 7 in eight games as they take down Fuquay Varina 50-31.
Southern Nash takes on 4A Wakefield in Bunn and puts up a good fight before losing 66-58
Ravens @ Bengals: Baltimore is better 26-17
Texans at Titans; Losing your quarterback to a broken anything is bad. Texans win in Nashville 26-13
Panthers and Tampa: Might as well finish up a disappointing season with another one in Tampa 30-16 Bucs
Browns at Steelers: You won one don't expect two and if most of the main Steelers sit. 27-10 Steelers.
Cowboys At Eagles: Just might be a good time to let Romo play a half and get hurt again. Eagles 27 Boys are resting 24
Bills at Jets: Both teams backed it in. Jets 22 Bills 17
Bears at Vikings: Might be last game for Fox in Chicago. Vikes 27 Bears 24
Jags at Colts: Colts finish with a win 33 23
Pats Dolphins: Just like the Pats to not play any players Fish 26 Pats 23
Chiefs at Chargers: Chargers lost a couple of more player to IR last week. I'm waiting for a call. Chiefs 26 Chargers 20
Cardinals at Rams: rams waiting for next year. Cards 26 Rams 17
Raiders at Bronco's: This will be interesting to see how Raiders offense works against top defense with new quarterback. Bronco's 20 Raiders 16
Giants at Redskins: Redskins spoil Eli's day 26-21
Seahawks at 49'ers: Look out 9'ers on a one game winning streak. Oh, it was just the Rams Hawks 26 SF 20
Saints @ Falcons: Do I play or sit my stars. Falcons 30 Saints 24
Packers @ Lions: I think heart is now out of Lions Packers 26-24
Wednesday high school basketball action Rocky Mount fell behind by eight in the first quarter in the Cleveland high tournament but won all three of the remaining quarters to win their second game of the year 70-63 over Fuquay Varina. The Gryphons jump to 2-3
Northern Nash had a much better second night in Bunn scalding Durham School of the Arts 84-49. The Knights are now 11-2.
The Lady Gryphons have not been effected by the football playoffs played most of their games unlike the boy. More defense last night led the Gryphons to victory number 7 in eight games as they take down Fuquay Varina 50-31.
Southern Nash takes on 4A Wakefield in Bunn and puts up a good fight before losing 66-58
Wednesday, December 28, 2016
Can You Believe That
The D3 All American football teams are being announced and so far not one has the name of North Carolina Wesleyan wide receiver Malik Adams from Selma. He has been named to the All South Region team. If nothing else this seems to me to be a slap in the face of USA South Athletic Conference who does not get one player on 1st, 2nd or honorable mention All American.
All South is swell for Adams to receive but when he graduates he will be the all time touchdown catching receiving in the history of the USA South with 47 touchdowns. Just this year alone he caught 53 balls in nine games for 881 yards which works out to 16.6 yards on every catch. 11 went for touchdowns.
There have been some NFL scouts on campus sniffy around check Malik out for a possible future in the NFL. They must know something that the All American committee doesn't know.
Both Rocky Mount Prep basketball teams played in Ahoskie against Elizabeth City Northeastern Monday night in the Herald Christmas Tournament. The Jag boys lost for the first time this year losing to the Eagles 82-44 while the girls were beaten 58-11
Rocky Mount boys met 4A Sanderson High of Raleigh in the Cleveland High Christmas Tournament and trailed by 10 at the half and by 20 at the end of the third? A small rally cut the final score to 68-54.
Northern Nash found the step up in the tournament play against Wake Forest to be the same as the Gryphons found the result as they were outscored by 14 in the second quarter and the result a 75-60 loss?
The Bulldogs of Nash Central tried their own luck with a 4A Raleigh school as they played tough but came up short against Athens Drive losing 68-62.
The only winner in boys action Tuesday was Southern Nash as they knocked off Bunn Wildcats 68-51
Rocky Mount used the Pam Gainey defense to hold Kinston to single digits in all but the 4th quarter and then gave up only 11 while the Rocky Mount girls produce 42 themselves and win 42-28 over Kinston.
All South is swell for Adams to receive but when he graduates he will be the all time touchdown catching receiving in the history of the USA South with 47 touchdowns. Just this year alone he caught 53 balls in nine games for 881 yards which works out to 16.6 yards on every catch. 11 went for touchdowns.
There have been some NFL scouts on campus sniffy around check Malik out for a possible future in the NFL. They must know something that the All American committee doesn't know.
Both Rocky Mount Prep basketball teams played in Ahoskie against Elizabeth City Northeastern Monday night in the Herald Christmas Tournament. The Jag boys lost for the first time this year losing to the Eagles 82-44 while the girls were beaten 58-11
Rocky Mount boys met 4A Sanderson High of Raleigh in the Cleveland High Christmas Tournament and trailed by 10 at the half and by 20 at the end of the third? A small rally cut the final score to 68-54.
Northern Nash found the step up in the tournament play against Wake Forest to be the same as the Gryphons found the result as they were outscored by 14 in the second quarter and the result a 75-60 loss?
The Bulldogs of Nash Central tried their own luck with a 4A Raleigh school as they played tough but came up short against Athens Drive losing 68-62.
The only winner in boys action Tuesday was Southern Nash as they knocked off Bunn Wildcats 68-51
Rocky Mount used the Pam Gainey defense to hold Kinston to single digits in all but the 4th quarter and then gave up only 11 while the Rocky Mount girls produce 42 themselves and win 42-28 over Kinston.
- The ACC is 3-0 in Bowl games as the Demon Deacons of Wake Forest win the Military Bowl 34-26 over Temple.
Tuesday, December 27, 2016
Pack Avoids Losing Season
I hope you know that as bad as I hate the five game playoffs in the high school football playoffs there is no reason for any college football team to get to a bowl game when they have lost as many as they have won. So for any team that thinks winning five and losing seven deserves more than spring practice is right after Christmas is all you should get.
One of the biggest issues for any team playing in a no name bowl game getting their players motivated whenever the stadium is more than half empty. If you are playing for the national championship
You should have no trouble motivating people in practice.
If there was more than 2O,000 in the stadium they didn't pay to get in. The Wolfpack avoided a sluggish first quarter to send Vanderbilt to a losing season 41-17. The ACC won twice yesterday with BC dumping Maryland 36-30.
The Demon Deacons of Wake Forest are next up for the ACC playing at 3:30 this afternoon in another no name bowl.
Just before Christmas First Flight High School set a North Carolina high school record making 28 three-point baskets in a high school basketball game. Oddly enough the basketball team from Dare County lost to Bertie 120-107.
Now girls basketball:
Another state record fell last week when Clinton's Mikayla Boykin scored 62 points in a girls basketball game breaking the record by one.
The Rocky Mount Lady Gryphons will join their boy mates from school in The Cleveland High Tournament as they will take the court today as they will play Kinston.
Southern Nash 2-6 has a non conference game during the first week of January against Smithfield Selma before they begin their own conference schedule against Rocky Mount at Rocky Mount.
Both Northern Nash 5-5 and Nash Central 3-4 are off until conference play begins in January.
One of the biggest issues for any team playing in a no name bowl game getting their players motivated whenever the stadium is more than half empty. If you are playing for the national championship
You should have no trouble motivating people in practice.
If there was more than 2O,000 in the stadium they didn't pay to get in. The Wolfpack avoided a sluggish first quarter to send Vanderbilt to a losing season 41-17. The ACC won twice yesterday with BC dumping Maryland 36-30.
The Demon Deacons of Wake Forest are next up for the ACC playing at 3:30 this afternoon in another no name bowl.
Just before Christmas First Flight High School set a North Carolina high school record making 28 three-point baskets in a high school basketball game. Oddly enough the basketball team from Dare County lost to Bertie 120-107.
Now girls basketball:
Another state record fell last week when Clinton's Mikayla Boykin scored 62 points in a girls basketball game breaking the record by one.
The Rocky Mount Lady Gryphons will join their boy mates from school in The Cleveland High Tournament as they will take the court today as they will play Kinston.
Southern Nash 2-6 has a non conference game during the first week of January against Smithfield Selma before they begin their own conference schedule against Rocky Mount at Rocky Mount.
Both Northern Nash 5-5 and Nash Central 3-4 are off until conference play begins in January.
Monday, December 26, 2016
Post Christmas Basketball Tournaments
If you have plans on watching any of the public high school boys basketball action this week you will travel in order to see any as all your public high schools are in tournaments some where else instead of Nash County. Both tournaments begin on Tuesday
Northern Nash 10-1 will take part in the Bunn Tournament where their opening game will be a step up to 4A when they will take on the team who won the 4A football championship Wake Forest 5-6. Already having played 11 basketball games you can see the difference when you have 2000 students compared to 1200. Plenty of players to play both sports at the same time.
Southern Nash 4-5 will also be in Bunn where they will also be in the Bunn Tournament and they will get to play the home team opening night in the Wildcats? So far this season the Bunn Wildcats are not quite as good as their football team as they stand at 1-7.
Nash Central will head west as they will be heading to Clayton to take part in the Cleveland High Tournament. The Bulldogs 7-1 will step up in class facing Athens Drive of Raleigh? Athens is 6-3 so far this year?
The Rocky Mount Gryphons 1-2 will also be trying to uphold the Big East in the Cleveland tournament. They will meet Sanderson in their first game 4-6. Rocky Mount having played only three games so far because of the extended football playoffs can expect several weeks of three games a week to catch up on games.
Rocky Mount Prep off to a 7-0 start will be heading to Ahoskie and Hertford County High school to take part in the News Herald Holiday Tournament and they will step up taking on 2A Elizabeth City Northeastern 4-0 which if records are any indication this should be a real test for the Jags.
Both Faith Christian 8-5 and Rocky Mount Academy 2-4 are off until the first of the year when RMA resumes play on January 3rd at Grace Christian in Raleigh and Faith waits until the 5th when they travel to Bethel Christian.
Northern Nash 10-1 will take part in the Bunn Tournament where their opening game will be a step up to 4A when they will take on the team who won the 4A football championship Wake Forest 5-6. Already having played 11 basketball games you can see the difference when you have 2000 students compared to 1200. Plenty of players to play both sports at the same time.
Southern Nash 4-5 will also be in Bunn where they will also be in the Bunn Tournament and they will get to play the home team opening night in the Wildcats? So far this season the Bunn Wildcats are not quite as good as their football team as they stand at 1-7.
Nash Central will head west as they will be heading to Clayton to take part in the Cleveland High Tournament. The Bulldogs 7-1 will step up in class facing Athens Drive of Raleigh? Athens is 6-3 so far this year?
The Rocky Mount Gryphons 1-2 will also be trying to uphold the Big East in the Cleveland tournament. They will meet Sanderson in their first game 4-6. Rocky Mount having played only three games so far because of the extended football playoffs can expect several weeks of three games a week to catch up on games.
Rocky Mount Prep off to a 7-0 start will be heading to Ahoskie and Hertford County High school to take part in the News Herald Holiday Tournament and they will step up taking on 2A Elizabeth City Northeastern 4-0 which if records are any indication this should be a real test for the Jags.
Both Faith Christian 8-5 and Rocky Mount Academy 2-4 are off until the first of the year when RMA resumes play on January 3rd at Grace Christian in Raleigh and Faith waits until the 5th when they travel to Bethel Christian.
Sunday, December 25, 2016
Merry Christmas 2016
Today Christians celebrate the day recognized as the birthday of Jesus Christ. Regardless of your thinking of religion I will celebrate today in the belief that Jesus was born of a virgin mother Mary. He died on the cross to forgive all people of their sins and he came back from the grave before he ascended into heaven where one day he will return.
Jesus died for all our sins but in order for us to be accepted into heaven we need to be the very best people we can be in life. No one is perfect and we are all sinners. What makes a Christian different from those who don't believe is when they sin they don't ask for forgiveness because by being a non- believer they don't even know they sinned.
Please have a happy and joyous day to rest, open gifts, celebrate with family and give thanks to your lord. He died for me and you and he is waiting in heaven for those who believe. If you have no idea what I am talking about find a person who can tell you the story of the Bible. There is not one passage in the Bible that has ever been proven wrong.
Don't miss out on the chance to live eternal life in a place called Heaven. One day we will all be gone from this earth. Where will you be? Instead of broadcasting sports I be blogging what a great place heaven is. I hope you are there to read it.
Merry Christmas
Jesus died for all our sins but in order for us to be accepted into heaven we need to be the very best people we can be in life. No one is perfect and we are all sinners. What makes a Christian different from those who don't believe is when they sin they don't ask for forgiveness because by being a non- believer they don't even know they sinned.
Please have a happy and joyous day to rest, open gifts, celebrate with family and give thanks to your lord. He died for me and you and he is waiting in heaven for those who believe. If you have no idea what I am talking about find a person who can tell you the story of the Bible. There is not one passage in the Bible that has ever been proven wrong.
Don't miss out on the chance to live eternal life in a place called Heaven. One day we will all be gone from this earth. Where will you be? Instead of broadcasting sports I be blogging what a great place heaven is. I hope you are there to read it.
Merry Christmas
Saturday, December 24, 2016
Broadcasters If They Are Any Good Are Prepared
It is a sad state to think a person working on the broadcast of Wake Forest University football because he was not retained by a new coach would do all in his power to help that new coach fail. He was hired to be the color man on the football coverage. He either told other teams of the expected plays Wake was going to run against certain teams when they played them that week or he was paid for the knowledge.
There are plenty of teams willing to spy or to send fans to practices to watch what plays you are running for that week. There is no doubt if I know when you line up in a certain formation what you plan to run is a big help. There are not many colleges or pro teams these days that allow open practices where fans can come watch just because of the potential of spies learning all the knowledge they can find out on your team this week.
If it didn't help get your team prepared this week why have teams like the New England Patriots been caught taping other team's practices. It wasn't because they were testing new camera equipment. Now days even in high school players are given DVD's to take home and watch last week's game and look at the person you will be going up against. If you know what a tendency of a player is or a team what they will do in this formation it helps your preparation..
I had the great pleasure to do play by play for 16 years at Ahoskie High and Hertford County for Daryl Allen and then the first four years B W Holt was at Rocky Mount. Both those coaches gave me access to come watch film with their coaches most of the time on Sunday nights after you have met with next week's coach of the other team to exchange film.
There were not many Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday's that you would not find me at practice watching the team work on what each coach thought they would need to do that week to win. I knew who was hurt, where each wanted to attack that week and even what they planned to do to stop the other side. I wanted to know as much as possible to be able just like a player recognize what formation a team was in and what to expect as the play unfolded.
When you cover one team you can do all that but as my radio life turned more to games of the week it is harder to get to both schools or to even a coach allowing you the access you have when one team is all you are covering.
I knew some very important information which I had been given privilege to know by both coaches and I had been trusted to not tell everyone I knew about what was going to happen. The world of college coaching when a coach is relieved of his duties as a coach most of the time his assistants are also relieved. Why a person would feel he should be retained when all others were not is a mystery.
When you see those guys on TV on Sunday's and all they do is describe what they see remember this that they have spent all week learning to pronounce names, look at films of both teams they are covering that week. They too have been given access to teams practices, locker rooms and knowledge of what they plan to do to win the game this week. It is only a game but to those who play in the game they surely don't want some media person giving away secrets about what they plan to do to win this week.
There are plenty of teams willing to spy or to send fans to practices to watch what plays you are running for that week. There is no doubt if I know when you line up in a certain formation what you plan to run is a big help. There are not many colleges or pro teams these days that allow open practices where fans can come watch just because of the potential of spies learning all the knowledge they can find out on your team this week.
If it didn't help get your team prepared this week why have teams like the New England Patriots been caught taping other team's practices. It wasn't because they were testing new camera equipment. Now days even in high school players are given DVD's to take home and watch last week's game and look at the person you will be going up against. If you know what a tendency of a player is or a team what they will do in this formation it helps your preparation..
I had the great pleasure to do play by play for 16 years at Ahoskie High and Hertford County for Daryl Allen and then the first four years B W Holt was at Rocky Mount. Both those coaches gave me access to come watch film with their coaches most of the time on Sunday nights after you have met with next week's coach of the other team to exchange film.
There were not many Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday's that you would not find me at practice watching the team work on what each coach thought they would need to do that week to win. I knew who was hurt, where each wanted to attack that week and even what they planned to do to stop the other side. I wanted to know as much as possible to be able just like a player recognize what formation a team was in and what to expect as the play unfolded.
When you cover one team you can do all that but as my radio life turned more to games of the week it is harder to get to both schools or to even a coach allowing you the access you have when one team is all you are covering.
I knew some very important information which I had been given privilege to know by both coaches and I had been trusted to not tell everyone I knew about what was going to happen. The world of college coaching when a coach is relieved of his duties as a coach most of the time his assistants are also relieved. Why a person would feel he should be retained when all others were not is a mystery.
When you see those guys on TV on Sunday's and all they do is describe what they see remember this that they have spent all week learning to pronounce names, look at films of both teams they are covering that week. They too have been given access to teams practices, locker rooms and knowledge of what they plan to do to win the game this week. It is only a game but to those who play in the game they surely don't want some media person giving away secrets about what they plan to do to win this week.
Friday, December 23, 2016
Our First Look At Girls Basketball
If there has been one impact moment so far this season is the injury to Big East girls player of the year 2015 Robbi Allen of Nash Central who probably been lost for the year. The Lady Bulldogs were conference champs last season and will struggle without Allen.
Hunt 9-0: Scoring average is 48 per contest while yielding 39. They are led in scoring by Tatiana Smith scoring at 8 points per game. Destinee Kent 9.6 and Kayla Kent 9.3 score almost as much. Kent leads the Lady Warriors in rebounding 5.4. The assist leader is Brianna Tucker at 1.4 per game
Rocky Mount 5-1: Football hasn't effected the Lady Gryphons like the boys basketball team has. Keyanna Spivey leads in point production averaging 19.2. Ashley Hatfield follows at 9.7. Spivey is also the leading rebounding grabber pulling down 10 a game. Shelby Meeks has proven to be the best passer collecting 4.8 assist per contest. The Gryphons are scoring 59. 5 per game and the Pam Gainey defense is holding others to to 32 every time out.
Fike 7-2: Golden Demons averaging 52 while holding opponents to 42. The leading scorer is Jada Lee at 16.8 Aniya Thigpen 11.3 is second on the squad. Lee leads in rebounding 5.6 and assists 4.8.
Northern Nash 5-5: The Knights scoring at 32.5 points per game while holding others 36.4. The Lady Knights are led in scoring by Markela Avent at 11 per game. See is followed by Tyra Cuthins at 8.4. The top rebounder is Kristan Johnson snatching 5.7 per game. Avent is leading in assist at 2.9.
Nash Central 3-4: They are averaging 46 while allowing 50. The one game she played Robbi Allen scored 23 points so the Lady Bulldogs have lost their main scorer as well as their top assist person in Allen at 4 per game. Michaela Nelms has picked up the slack scoring 19.6. Anna Shaye Thompson is now second on the team at 8. Nelms is now the leader in assists at 3.7.
Southern Nash 2-6: Opening night the Lady Birds broke their two year losing streak and since has won another. Struggling on offense scoring only 23 points per game. They are giving up 42. Jessy Lucas leads in scoring at 10.1 which is almost half of the teams scoring. Jalisa Williams collects rebounds 5.1. Trinity Newkirk get one assist per contest.
Hunt 9-0: Scoring average is 48 per contest while yielding 39. They are led in scoring by Tatiana Smith scoring at 8 points per game. Destinee Kent 9.6 and Kayla Kent 9.3 score almost as much. Kent leads the Lady Warriors in rebounding 5.4. The assist leader is Brianna Tucker at 1.4 per game
Rocky Mount 5-1: Football hasn't effected the Lady Gryphons like the boys basketball team has. Keyanna Spivey leads in point production averaging 19.2. Ashley Hatfield follows at 9.7. Spivey is also the leading rebounding grabber pulling down 10 a game. Shelby Meeks has proven to be the best passer collecting 4.8 assist per contest. The Gryphons are scoring 59. 5 per game and the Pam Gainey defense is holding others to to 32 every time out.
Fike 7-2: Golden Demons averaging 52 while holding opponents to 42. The leading scorer is Jada Lee at 16.8 Aniya Thigpen 11.3 is second on the squad. Lee leads in rebounding 5.6 and assists 4.8.
Northern Nash 5-5: The Knights scoring at 32.5 points per game while holding others 36.4. The Lady Knights are led in scoring by Markela Avent at 11 per game. See is followed by Tyra Cuthins at 8.4. The top rebounder is Kristan Johnson snatching 5.7 per game. Avent is leading in assist at 2.9.
Nash Central 3-4: They are averaging 46 while allowing 50. The one game she played Robbi Allen scored 23 points so the Lady Bulldogs have lost their main scorer as well as their top assist person in Allen at 4 per game. Michaela Nelms has picked up the slack scoring 19.6. Anna Shaye Thompson is now second on the team at 8. Nelms is now the leader in assists at 3.7.
Southern Nash 2-6: Opening night the Lady Birds broke their two year losing streak and since has won another. Struggling on offense scoring only 23 points per game. They are giving up 42. Jessy Lucas leads in scoring at 10.1 which is almost half of the teams scoring. Jalisa Williams collects rebounds 5.1. Trinity Newkirk get one assist per contest.
- Most teams will be playing after Christmas both boys and girls getting ready for the start on conference play come the second week in January.
Thursday, December 22, 2016
Mostly Saturday NFL
Christmas is Sunday and only two games on the NFL slate as most are Saturday as well as the Regular Thursday and Monday night games. Last week went 12-4 to push my record for the year to 155-72 Let's get the Ho-Ho Ho games under way.
Giants @ Eagles: Giants defense is playing well, Philly not doing so much but it is time to beat somebody. Eagles 26 Giants 23
Dolphins @ Bills: No telling what kind of conditions the field will be in Buffalo. Don't see the fish playing well in the cold. Bills 27 Dolphins 16
Jets @ Patriots: I Don't give the Jets much of a chance. 36-23 Pat's
Titans @ Jags: Tennessee is not out of playoffs. Jags been out of playoffs for a while. Titans 23 Jags 20
Vikings @ Packers: Vikes heading down while the Packers still in playoff hunt. Packers 36 Vikings 24
Chargers @ Browns: If the Browns are going to win one this is it. Chargers somehow or other stay close against most and they just might win this one. Chargers 30 Brown's 20
Redskins @ Bears: Why would I think the Bears can win this one but I do. Bears 26 Skins 24
Colts @ Raiders: Colts have their act together while Raiders are very close to being best in AFC. Oakland 36 Colts 32
Falcons @ Panthers: I think Panthers defense just might hold down the Flying birds. Carolina 27 Atlanta 26
Bucs @ Saints. This is a real football game. Saints can score but they give up plenty. Bucs probably can hold hold the Saint offense. Tampa 31 New Orleans 28
Cards @ Seahawks: Cardinals just not the team they were last year while Seattle is a different team at home so I suspect a 26-14 Seahawks victory.
49'ers @ Rams: Dud game of the week. Is it possible for a 0-0 tie. Rams 17-10
Bengals @ Texans: The Texans need this more than Bengals. Texans 27-23
Two extra special Christmas Day games.
Ravens @ Steelers: Ravens are sneaky good. Steelers are tough at home. Playoffs on the line. This is when the NFL gets good. Steelers 26 Ravens 23
Bronco's @ Chiefs. Denver can't score enough to beat good teams with a defense. Chiefs 17 Denver 10
Lions @ Cowboys: I could see the Lions giving Dallas a game but I can't see a Detroit win Boys 27 Lions 21
Bengals @ Texans: The Texans need this more than Bengals. Texans 27-23
Two extra special Christmas Day games.
Ravens @ Steelers: Ravens are sneaky good. Steelers are tough at home. Playoffs on the line. This is when the NFL gets good. Steelers 26 Ravens 23
Bronco's @ Chiefs. Denver can't score enough to beat good teams with a defense. Chiefs 17 Denver 10
Lions @ Cowboys: I could see the Lions giving Dallas a game but I can't see a Detroit win Boys 27 Lions 21
Wednesday, December 21, 2016
Let's Talk Basketball
The Rocky Mount run in the football playoffs there has been a complete ignoring of basketball on my part but it's time to turn to the indoor sport. Last week with the football playoffs shoved back a week the conflict with the Nash County Christmas tournament in which Northern Nash Wins while the Nash Central girls top out as winners. Today a look at where the boys are at this point and then Friday a look at the girls.
Northern Nash: 10-1 Henry Drake in his second year I think has the Knights rolling. Having seen many games over the years I thought just listening to Rick Ruffin coach when he was at Northern I thought he was a very good coach but hardly anybody listened and did what he said. A coach who connects with his players is vital in order to have success.
So Far the Knights are averaging over 71 per game while giving up just 57. Darius Spragley leads the scoring at 16.6 and Undray Cherry follows 15.. Raymond Bullock hauls down seven rebound per game and Spragley gives his teammates open shots at a rate of 3.7. I think you can lookout all year as this team is for real.
Nash Central 7-1: Open with seven straight wins until beaten by Northern in the Christmas tournament. Averaging 68.3 yards while holding others to 56.6. The Bulldogs are led by Montre' Cash scoring at a clip of 22.8. Seems like just yesterday as a six year old Montre' sat at the scoring table being the score keeper for his mom's Lady Bulldogs team. I don't recall ever hearing of any controversy over his making a mistake. He was almost a tourist attraction watching him for his age and size work the score book.
Elijah Cole is second on the Bulldogs scoring 13.5. Dominic Dixon is pulling down 9.3 rebounds to lead the dogs. Cash is handing out 5.3 assist so between his points and what assists he is responsible for 33 points per game.
Fike 8-2: Scoring 64.5 giving up 55.9. Led in scoring by Samson Strickland 18.3 and Ricky Fuller 12.7. Strickland is the top rebounder in the conference at 12 per game. Kavaris Evans is the leading assist maker doling out 5.9 per game.
Southern Nash 3-4: Scoring at a 60 point per game while giving up 61. I am sure football has effected the roster as the Firebirds lasted to Thanksgiving so we will see after Christmas how the Birds flow. They are led by Darius Edmonson who scores 10.1 and Matt Hampton 8.4. Top rebound grabber is Hampton who grabs 6.4 per outing. Corey Foster shares passes with teammates at 4.1
Hunt 2-6: So far in the major sports the Warriors are struggling having not won a conference football game and basketball off to a slow start. They score at a rate of 55 per game and are giving up 57. The Warriors are led by KJ Jones at 12.8. Jeremiah Ganaway is a double digit scorer ripping the cords for 10.2.
Ricky Mount 1-1: There is no doubt Mike Gainey decided after his basketball team lost eight straight games while the football team was winning a state championship last season and then lost five more waiting for those football players to get in basketball shape said not this year. Every game except the Christmas tournament has been moved or dropped altogether.
The Gryphons split their two games and at least three football players will join them after Christmas. The two games to dates they are scoring 62.5 while allowing 64. The hope is the football players make the impact that they did last year tying for the conference regular season and a win in the opening round playoff game.
Northern Nash: 10-1 Henry Drake in his second year I think has the Knights rolling. Having seen many games over the years I thought just listening to Rick Ruffin coach when he was at Northern I thought he was a very good coach but hardly anybody listened and did what he said. A coach who connects with his players is vital in order to have success.
So Far the Knights are averaging over 71 per game while giving up just 57. Darius Spragley leads the scoring at 16.6 and Undray Cherry follows 15.. Raymond Bullock hauls down seven rebound per game and Spragley gives his teammates open shots at a rate of 3.7. I think you can lookout all year as this team is for real.
Nash Central 7-1: Open with seven straight wins until beaten by Northern in the Christmas tournament. Averaging 68.3 yards while holding others to 56.6. The Bulldogs are led by Montre' Cash scoring at a clip of 22.8. Seems like just yesterday as a six year old Montre' sat at the scoring table being the score keeper for his mom's Lady Bulldogs team. I don't recall ever hearing of any controversy over his making a mistake. He was almost a tourist attraction watching him for his age and size work the score book.
Elijah Cole is second on the Bulldogs scoring 13.5. Dominic Dixon is pulling down 9.3 rebounds to lead the dogs. Cash is handing out 5.3 assist so between his points and what assists he is responsible for 33 points per game.
Fike 8-2: Scoring 64.5 giving up 55.9. Led in scoring by Samson Strickland 18.3 and Ricky Fuller 12.7. Strickland is the top rebounder in the conference at 12 per game. Kavaris Evans is the leading assist maker doling out 5.9 per game.
Southern Nash 3-4: Scoring at a 60 point per game while giving up 61. I am sure football has effected the roster as the Firebirds lasted to Thanksgiving so we will see after Christmas how the Birds flow. They are led by Darius Edmonson who scores 10.1 and Matt Hampton 8.4. Top rebound grabber is Hampton who grabs 6.4 per outing. Corey Foster shares passes with teammates at 4.1
Hunt 2-6: So far in the major sports the Warriors are struggling having not won a conference football game and basketball off to a slow start. They score at a rate of 55 per game and are giving up 57. The Warriors are led by KJ Jones at 12.8. Jeremiah Ganaway is a double digit scorer ripping the cords for 10.2.
Ricky Mount 1-1: There is no doubt Mike Gainey decided after his basketball team lost eight straight games while the football team was winning a state championship last season and then lost five more waiting for those football players to get in basketball shape said not this year. Every game except the Christmas tournament has been moved or dropped altogether.
The Gryphons split their two games and at least three football players will join them after Christmas. The two games to dates they are scoring 62.5 while allowing 64. The hope is the football players make the impact that they did last year tying for the conference regular season and a win in the opening round playoff game.
Tuesday, December 20, 2016
The Last Word On Football
Two years in a row the Rocky Mount Gryphons played in the last game of the season. Just think back to other teams this century that we thought had great shots at state titles who never made it to the big dance. We as fans who are the experts standing on the sidelines willing to tell others what they did wrong. Seldom did we have anything to do other than stand on the sidelines and watch our team get as far as it did.
What was the difference between winning this year and second this time around? South Point stopped our running game both years. This year and last they made the Gryphons win with the pass and any coach watching film would all tell you. Let's commit to stop the run and take our chances that their five times a game passes cannot beat us.
South Point found out the hard way last year that the Gryphon quarterback could throw but with the running attack the Gryphons had not much need to throw. Even with the success of the passing attack in Chapel Hill it took over time to beat the Red Raiders.
Looking at film of Rocky Mount again this year South Point saw a team that for the most part had used two quarterbacks all season. It would seem that position was more unstable over last and since we thought last year the way to beat the Gryphons was to make the quarterback beat us that is the way to try to win again this year.
Coaches make decisions all the time based on what they surmise as their strengths going up against the other teams weakness. Sometimes they get it right because they made the right decision. Then there are the times they still make the right decision but you still get beat.
South Point's coach Linberger took it from his fans last year for letting Rocky Mount get so many yards passing. Jason Battle was a genius last year. The roles are reversed and did either coach fail at what they thought was best for the team. Probably not because last year our quarterback surprised us all and led us to the promise land. This year the Red Raider defense did not budge. So each team has a title.
The writing was on the wall if we are willing to see. Last year only once did the 2015 Gryphons score less than 20. They scored 13 against Northern Nash the day of the death of a JV football player.
Hunt who didn't win a conference game held us to 17. Southern Nash 10. Havelock had begrudged less than 100 yards except for one play.
This team lived off defense all year and when faced with other teams with as good of defense struggled to win. Those games when we could not hold on to the ball we kept teams in the game. Let's face it. This team reached further than anyone expected. This team full of shortcomings finished second in the state. One of the best defense's in the history of North Carolina playoff football South Point Red Raiders scored one touchdown on a day they hardly saw the other end of the field living on our side all game. The 2016 Rocky Mount Gryphons are special team going further than their ability and we are all proud of you.
What was the difference between winning this year and second this time around? South Point stopped our running game both years. This year and last they made the Gryphons win with the pass and any coach watching film would all tell you. Let's commit to stop the run and take our chances that their five times a game passes cannot beat us.
South Point found out the hard way last year that the Gryphon quarterback could throw but with the running attack the Gryphons had not much need to throw. Even with the success of the passing attack in Chapel Hill it took over time to beat the Red Raiders.
Looking at film of Rocky Mount again this year South Point saw a team that for the most part had used two quarterbacks all season. It would seem that position was more unstable over last and since we thought last year the way to beat the Gryphons was to make the quarterback beat us that is the way to try to win again this year.
Coaches make decisions all the time based on what they surmise as their strengths going up against the other teams weakness. Sometimes they get it right because they made the right decision. Then there are the times they still make the right decision but you still get beat.
South Point's coach Linberger took it from his fans last year for letting Rocky Mount get so many yards passing. Jason Battle was a genius last year. The roles are reversed and did either coach fail at what they thought was best for the team. Probably not because last year our quarterback surprised us all and led us to the promise land. This year the Red Raider defense did not budge. So each team has a title.
The writing was on the wall if we are willing to see. Last year only once did the 2015 Gryphons score less than 20. They scored 13 against Northern Nash the day of the death of a JV football player.
Hunt who didn't win a conference game held us to 17. Southern Nash 10. Havelock had begrudged less than 100 yards except for one play.
This team lived off defense all year and when faced with other teams with as good of defense struggled to win. Those games when we could not hold on to the ball we kept teams in the game. Let's face it. This team reached further than anyone expected. This team full of shortcomings finished second in the state. One of the best defense's in the history of North Carolina playoff football South Point Red Raiders scored one touchdown on a day they hardly saw the other end of the field living on our side all game. The 2016 Rocky Mount Gryphons are special team going further than their ability and we are all proud of you.
Monday, December 19, 2016
16 games Is Too Many
You all know I hate the five playoff games in order to win a state title. It is simply too many games. Think about this, it is a NFL regular season. If a high school school year is 36 weeks then in order to win a state championship or even make the state championship game football takes up 44% of a school year. Simply too much.
The weather has played a major factor in the way this season played out. A week before the start of conference play every team in eastern North Carolina has to shut down because of Hurricane Matthew. Rocky Mount played for a month after the week down unlike the team they were before. They were able to find it again in the late part of the first round game.
There should have been no way what so ever any team was allowed to play three games in eight days. The world we live in now the word is safety for the players and yet how can anyone say it is safe to play three games in eight days.
I want to go back to a ten game schedule and only four playoff games. I want the football championships to end in November the way it use to be. I know there were years where two playoff games won a state title then it went to three and that wasn't enough to four and now five with nearly 30% of the teams with losing records.
Saturday seven state championships games were played at three different locations. Games were played at 11,3 and 7:30. If I remember Tarboro had one of the 11 o'clock games one year but this is my first experience of really paying attention to these 11 am games. Let's don't even consider how bad the weather was because it could have pour down rain as no one has control of the weather.
The attendance was announced at less than three. Weather was the biggest factor of course. Rocky Mount fans had to leave around seven to get to the game on time. What time did every team who played the early one leave to get to their game?
My question today is why three sites with three games at some sites. Why not four sites and play two at each site. I see playing the first game at 2pm and the second at 6pm on Saturday giving every person who would love to follow their team time to get there. Saturday many fans got up wanting to go but the road conditions scared them to stay home because it's either go now and or not get there by kickoff.
I know I have no idea how the major venues used in the state championship games are procured. If you can get three you ought to be able to get four. ECU, State, Carolina, Duke, Wake all hold over 30,000. I know each would love to host because it is a recruiting tool to get a player into your facility without using a recruiting visit.
Through the years the NCHSAA has thought about money over the safety of the players and even the convenience of the fans whole attend the games and help put more money in ticket sales. It's time to think about the education of the players over how much money can be made.
The weather has played a major factor in the way this season played out. A week before the start of conference play every team in eastern North Carolina has to shut down because of Hurricane Matthew. Rocky Mount played for a month after the week down unlike the team they were before. They were able to find it again in the late part of the first round game.
There should have been no way what so ever any team was allowed to play three games in eight days. The world we live in now the word is safety for the players and yet how can anyone say it is safe to play three games in eight days.
I want to go back to a ten game schedule and only four playoff games. I want the football championships to end in November the way it use to be. I know there were years where two playoff games won a state title then it went to three and that wasn't enough to four and now five with nearly 30% of the teams with losing records.
Saturday seven state championships games were played at three different locations. Games were played at 11,3 and 7:30. If I remember Tarboro had one of the 11 o'clock games one year but this is my first experience of really paying attention to these 11 am games. Let's don't even consider how bad the weather was because it could have pour down rain as no one has control of the weather.
The attendance was announced at less than three. Weather was the biggest factor of course. Rocky Mount fans had to leave around seven to get to the game on time. What time did every team who played the early one leave to get to their game?
My question today is why three sites with three games at some sites. Why not four sites and play two at each site. I see playing the first game at 2pm and the second at 6pm on Saturday giving every person who would love to follow their team time to get there. Saturday many fans got up wanting to go but the road conditions scared them to stay home because it's either go now and or not get there by kickoff.
I know I have no idea how the major venues used in the state championship games are procured. If you can get three you ought to be able to get four. ECU, State, Carolina, Duke, Wake all hold over 30,000. I know each would love to host because it is a recruiting tool to get a player into your facility without using a recruiting visit.
Through the years the NCHSAA has thought about money over the safety of the players and even the convenience of the fans whole attend the games and help put more money in ticket sales. It's time to think about the education of the players over how much money can be made.
Sunday, December 18, 2016
13-3 Season Still A Season To Be Proud
How many teams win 10 games in a season? Now five years into his tenure as Rocky Mount High's football coach Jason Battle after a 13-3 season and a second place finish in 3A football standings with a coaching record of 51-17. Any coach who can maintain a 75 % winning total throughout his coaching career is on the verge of on legendary talk by the time they hit twenty years coaching. Now I want to be as honest as possible with you. How many people just two years ago foresaw Jason Battle leading any team to two state finals.
The night Rocky Mount hosted the jamboree with Goldsboro, Southern Nash and Western Harnett I talked with Battle on the field and he was showing the signs of stress as the defending state champions and the fan expections of winning another this season.
Already the season was full of injuries as Sherrod Green had broken his hand in a weight lifting injury. He would miss the first three and a half games. Who was going to be the quarterback to replace Forest Bell the offensive player of the game in the state championship game? Just maybe he saw this team as a far cry from the level of the 2015 squad.
A opening night shutout and a a third quarter lead against Middle Creek one of the best teams in the state gave hope to the 2016 Gryphons were rounding into form. A persistent mishandling of the ball created some uncomfortable moments as the season progressed. A trip to Greenville leaves all Gryphons fans thinking that this team just might.
Then there is a month of average football playing where it looks as if the Gryphons are going to have trouble winning the Big East. Southern uses senior night and and inspired play from the Firebirds to win the conference crown.
Then there is a first round third quarter melt down that faced with 20 minutes to rally or start basketball season the Gryphons find the focus missing for a month. A victory over Southern Nash and Southern Guilford send the Gryphons to a miracle finish and an another shot at state championship glory.
The Havelock game battered and bruised the Gryphons so they head to Winston Salem not as healthy as last year. They once again drop the ball on the ground three times losing one and an interception takes away two drives that gave South Point more field position.
Many fans left Winston wondering why the Gryphons went for it on fourth down four times in their own territory only making it once. You know for a coach that has won 75% of his games there is a good chance he knows the health of his team as well as how they stack up against the team across the line and he knows if you can't control the ball you may not get it back. Keeping the ball was a major need in this game and the South Point defense would not allow the Gryphons any yardage to take away the Gryphon championship. The only fourth down call I can question was the 4th and 17 with six minutes left. I'm punting and looking for my defense to get me the ball back.
I heard one of their players during the handshakes told our guys "we know how you feel". Referring to last year. Revenge was a major factor in this one. Any time any teams has great runs of winning you never know when the well runs dry. This team just maybe over achieved. Appreciate what this team has done. No telling when the next championship game will be.
The night Rocky Mount hosted the jamboree with Goldsboro, Southern Nash and Western Harnett I talked with Battle on the field and he was showing the signs of stress as the defending state champions and the fan expections of winning another this season.
Already the season was full of injuries as Sherrod Green had broken his hand in a weight lifting injury. He would miss the first three and a half games. Who was going to be the quarterback to replace Forest Bell the offensive player of the game in the state championship game? Just maybe he saw this team as a far cry from the level of the 2015 squad.
A opening night shutout and a a third quarter lead against Middle Creek one of the best teams in the state gave hope to the 2016 Gryphons were rounding into form. A persistent mishandling of the ball created some uncomfortable moments as the season progressed. A trip to Greenville leaves all Gryphons fans thinking that this team just might.
Then there is a month of average football playing where it looks as if the Gryphons are going to have trouble winning the Big East. Southern uses senior night and and inspired play from the Firebirds to win the conference crown.
Then there is a first round third quarter melt down that faced with 20 minutes to rally or start basketball season the Gryphons find the focus missing for a month. A victory over Southern Nash and Southern Guilford send the Gryphons to a miracle finish and an another shot at state championship glory.
The Havelock game battered and bruised the Gryphons so they head to Winston Salem not as healthy as last year. They once again drop the ball on the ground three times losing one and an interception takes away two drives that gave South Point more field position.
Many fans left Winston wondering why the Gryphons went for it on fourth down four times in their own territory only making it once. You know for a coach that has won 75% of his games there is a good chance he knows the health of his team as well as how they stack up against the team across the line and he knows if you can't control the ball you may not get it back. Keeping the ball was a major need in this game and the South Point defense would not allow the Gryphons any yardage to take away the Gryphon championship. The only fourth down call I can question was the 4th and 17 with six minutes left. I'm punting and looking for my defense to get me the ball back.
I heard one of their players during the handshakes told our guys "we know how you feel". Referring to last year. Revenge was a major factor in this one. Any time any teams has great runs of winning you never know when the well runs dry. This team just maybe over achieved. Appreciate what this team has done. No telling when the next championship game will be.
Saturday, December 17, 2016
Not This Year
Team to arrive at Gym about 4:45
It will be a game where the South Point Red Raiders will say their defense came to play state championship football. Today Rocky Mount crosses the fifty yard line only twice while the Red Raider offense felt the soil under their feet to start a drive twice. Field position, a Gryphon fumble, interception and three field goals made by the kid that wore the goat tag for a year ago Thomas Lempereur leads South Point to a 16-7 victory over Rocky Mount denying the Gryphons back to back titles.
The game for the Gryphons was like they were treading in mud all games as the best field position they had all day was their own forty after a Detrell Revis interception return. South Point started on the Rocky Mount side all but twice which tells you how great the Gryphon D played giving up only one touchdown and that occurred after a Gryphon Fumble at their own 24 eventually turn into a 7 yard touchdown pass from quarterback Scottie Lee to Ray Grier which bumped the score to 13-7.
Rocky Mount's offense only moved the ball once all game and it came on their only drive of the game that started at their own 31 and with eight seconds to play in the half. Shabios Lynch hit Shyheim Battle with a 25 yard score and Rocky Mount had a 7-3 halftime lead and had been completely dominated by field position and the Red Raider defense.
A very disappointing crowd of around 4,000 weathered the cold and even icy road conditions as both side had about 2,000 people no where near the internet talk that South Point would fill one side of the stadium.
South Point had 199 yards rushing in the game all but about ten came on the Rocky Mount side of the field. The only pass they completed was the seven yard td for a total of 206 yards. Rocky Mount rushed for 27 yards once quarterback sacks were subtracted and passed for 91 for 118 total offense. If there was ever a game in which a team defense bottled the other them up today was it as the Red Raiders who only allowed the Gryphons across the 50 twice.
Sherrod Green was named the Gryphons defensive player of the game while Shabios Lynch was the offensive performer. Even in defeat the fans need to be at the gym to support this team on their arrival. I will post as soon as there is a time set for their return. I am sure they will stop on the way back to eat so as soon as they know arrival time I'll feed it to you.
Rocky Mount finishes 13-3 while South Point wins their 5th football title their first since 2009
It will be a game where the South Point Red Raiders will say their defense came to play state championship football. Today Rocky Mount crosses the fifty yard line only twice while the Red Raider offense felt the soil under their feet to start a drive twice. Field position, a Gryphon fumble, interception and three field goals made by the kid that wore the goat tag for a year ago Thomas Lempereur leads South Point to a 16-7 victory over Rocky Mount denying the Gryphons back to back titles.
The game for the Gryphons was like they were treading in mud all games as the best field position they had all day was their own forty after a Detrell Revis interception return. South Point started on the Rocky Mount side all but twice which tells you how great the Gryphon D played giving up only one touchdown and that occurred after a Gryphon Fumble at their own 24 eventually turn into a 7 yard touchdown pass from quarterback Scottie Lee to Ray Grier which bumped the score to 13-7.
Rocky Mount's offense only moved the ball once all game and it came on their only drive of the game that started at their own 31 and with eight seconds to play in the half. Shabios Lynch hit Shyheim Battle with a 25 yard score and Rocky Mount had a 7-3 halftime lead and had been completely dominated by field position and the Red Raider defense.
A very disappointing crowd of around 4,000 weathered the cold and even icy road conditions as both side had about 2,000 people no where near the internet talk that South Point would fill one side of the stadium.
South Point had 199 yards rushing in the game all but about ten came on the Rocky Mount side of the field. The only pass they completed was the seven yard td for a total of 206 yards. Rocky Mount rushed for 27 yards once quarterback sacks were subtracted and passed for 91 for 118 total offense. If there was ever a game in which a team defense bottled the other them up today was it as the Red Raiders who only allowed the Gryphons across the 50 twice.
Sherrod Green was named the Gryphons defensive player of the game while Shabios Lynch was the offensive performer. Even in defeat the fans need to be at the gym to support this team on their arrival. I will post as soon as there is a time set for their return. I am sure they will stop on the way back to eat so as soon as they know arrival time I'll feed it to you.
Rocky Mount finishes 13-3 while South Point wins their 5th football title their first since 2009
The Go For Two In A Row
The Rocky Mount Gryphons if they can be victorious today will repeat back to back state championships in football for the first time since 1962/63. When you arrive at the stadium the Gryphons are the home team and will sit on the East stands. BBT Stadium holds 31,500 or about 15,000 on each sideline.
Some where around 7,500 fans made the trip last year in Chapel Hill on a Friday night. Many simply could not get off soon enough to get to the game so with this being a Saturday game even though it's 165 miles away there should be more in Winston this year.
I assume everyone knows how to get out on I-40 near the airport in Greensboro. Stay on I-40 west where you can either take 1-40 or I 40 Business toward Winston Salem. About 14 miles on either road you need to take US 52 toward Mount Airy. If you take I 40 you will cross over I 40 business where you will join those that go Business I-40. About four miles take Cherry Street turn right at bottom of the ramp off the exit. The stadium is not that far the address is 411 Deacon Blvd. Remember the Gryphons are in the East stands.
Many people from all over the world during those special weeks hit this blog in order to find out what's happening leading up to the big game. That has happened again this year but it started back during the regular season game with Southern Nash and has continued right up to today. My blog hits have tripled every day for six weeks now over a normal every day Thank You all.
Both teams spent the night near Winston Salem. The Gryphons left around 1pm and stopped in Greensboro and practiced at North Carolina A&T late Friday afternoon. Not sure where they stayed but that sure beats getting up early and maybe worry with the weather to get to the stadium.
Those who are stuck home not making the trip to Winston and you are on Time Warner Cable you can go to channel 324 and the game will be live. You can access a live internet feed by going to NCHSAA.ORG and on the front page it says Don't miss a minute of action. All the state championship games will be listed. Click on the Rocky Mount game and it will appear at 11am. You may need to put the Time Warner App on your computer to view the game but it is free.
I will blog the results by 2pm if the game is over by then GO GRYPHONS!!!!!!
Some where around 7,500 fans made the trip last year in Chapel Hill on a Friday night. Many simply could not get off soon enough to get to the game so with this being a Saturday game even though it's 165 miles away there should be more in Winston this year.
I assume everyone knows how to get out on I-40 near the airport in Greensboro. Stay on I-40 west where you can either take 1-40 or I 40 Business toward Winston Salem. About 14 miles on either road you need to take US 52 toward Mount Airy. If you take I 40 you will cross over I 40 business where you will join those that go Business I-40. About four miles take Cherry Street turn right at bottom of the ramp off the exit. The stadium is not that far the address is 411 Deacon Blvd. Remember the Gryphons are in the East stands.
Many people from all over the world during those special weeks hit this blog in order to find out what's happening leading up to the big game. That has happened again this year but it started back during the regular season game with Southern Nash and has continued right up to today. My blog hits have tripled every day for six weeks now over a normal every day Thank You all.
Both teams spent the night near Winston Salem. The Gryphons left around 1pm and stopped in Greensboro and practiced at North Carolina A&T late Friday afternoon. Not sure where they stayed but that sure beats getting up early and maybe worry with the weather to get to the stadium.
Those who are stuck home not making the trip to Winston and you are on Time Warner Cable you can go to channel 324 and the game will be live. You can access a live internet feed by going to NCHSAA.ORG and on the front page it says Don't miss a minute of action. All the state championship games will be listed. Click on the Rocky Mount game and it will appear at 11am. You may need to put the Time Warner App on your computer to view the game but it is free.
I will blog the results by 2pm if the game is over by then GO GRYPHONS!!!!!!
Friday, December 16, 2016
Time For The Pick
So far during the high school playoffs yours truly picked every game in which a Big East team played in the playoffs and all teams in Nash and Edgecombe County. The final pick is the most important one of the year and through last weekend's games I'm 14-1. The lone miss was the SouthWest Edgecombe first playoff weekend loss. Now for the big one..
This season South Point has scored 576 points or 38.6 per game. They have allowed 133 points or 8.8 points per game. The last nine games all wins they have given up 27 points or 3 points per game. They have thrown three shutouts in four playoff games and five on the season. Remember an opening play kick off return last year the Gryphons scored only two touchdowns against the Red Raiders last year. Sure does seem to me their defense is better than last season.
The Gryphons have scored 485 points or 32.3 while giving up 274 or 18.25. Take away the 41 against Rose and 37 to Middle Creek the Gryphons have allowed 196 or 14.8. This games has every indication of two touchdowns could win this game.
Their Quarterback Scottie Lee and back Jake Alexander will touch the ball 80 percent of the time. Neither of the two backs that carried the load for them last year are back. We had trouble with the quarterback taking off and running from the pocket and remember 32 was a straight ahead runner who stayed low to the ground. The quarterback runs like the Havelock QB so the defensive challenge is much like last week.
Assuming we have trouble running the ball like last year then our ace in the hole has to be Detrell Revis. The defensive MVP of this game last year has been an offensive juggernaut for the Gryphons every time he touches the ball. One catch for 99 yards and a touchdown. Eight interceptions including one he took to the house. Three rushes for 108 yards which is 36 yards per carry.. Seven kickoff returns for 223 or 31.9 per return and nine punt returns for 167 or 18.6 per return. Leave off his interceptions because there is no reliable stat there he has touched the ball Rushing, receiving, Kick off and punt returns 20 times for 597 yards. That is an unreal stat of 29.85 yards every time he touches it. Throw him screen passes, run reverses but get him the ball if we are stagnant.
How can this game be any closer than the game last year that went overtime. You know this century the Gryphons are 1-0 in baseball championship games. Basketball 2-0 and football so far 1-0. There will be a loss somewhere this century if we keep getting into state championship games the way the Gryphons have the last eight years five times and it very well could be Saturday.
I do have to ask this question. How can you pick against a team that is 30 seconds from being eliminated and don't even have the ball 99 yards from a score and don't get a turnover but win with tenacious defense and a extra quick offense. This Gryphon team plays their best when the chips are down and somehow win.
Win or lose Saturday you need to meet the team at the Gym whenever they return. This senior class has given the Gryphon Nation a state championship and on the cusp of a second and a record of 27-4. Show them Saturday night how much you love them. Gryphons 17 South Point 14
Go Gryphons
This season South Point has scored 576 points or 38.6 per game. They have allowed 133 points or 8.8 points per game. The last nine games all wins they have given up 27 points or 3 points per game. They have thrown three shutouts in four playoff games and five on the season. Remember an opening play kick off return last year the Gryphons scored only two touchdowns against the Red Raiders last year. Sure does seem to me their defense is better than last season.
The Gryphons have scored 485 points or 32.3 while giving up 274 or 18.25. Take away the 41 against Rose and 37 to Middle Creek the Gryphons have allowed 196 or 14.8. This games has every indication of two touchdowns could win this game.
Their Quarterback Scottie Lee and back Jake Alexander will touch the ball 80 percent of the time. Neither of the two backs that carried the load for them last year are back. We had trouble with the quarterback taking off and running from the pocket and remember 32 was a straight ahead runner who stayed low to the ground. The quarterback runs like the Havelock QB so the defensive challenge is much like last week.
Assuming we have trouble running the ball like last year then our ace in the hole has to be Detrell Revis. The defensive MVP of this game last year has been an offensive juggernaut for the Gryphons every time he touches the ball. One catch for 99 yards and a touchdown. Eight interceptions including one he took to the house. Three rushes for 108 yards which is 36 yards per carry.. Seven kickoff returns for 223 or 31.9 per return and nine punt returns for 167 or 18.6 per return. Leave off his interceptions because there is no reliable stat there he has touched the ball Rushing, receiving, Kick off and punt returns 20 times for 597 yards. That is an unreal stat of 29.85 yards every time he touches it. Throw him screen passes, run reverses but get him the ball if we are stagnant.
How can this game be any closer than the game last year that went overtime. You know this century the Gryphons are 1-0 in baseball championship games. Basketball 2-0 and football so far 1-0. There will be a loss somewhere this century if we keep getting into state championship games the way the Gryphons have the last eight years five times and it very well could be Saturday.
I do have to ask this question. How can you pick against a team that is 30 seconds from being eliminated and don't even have the ball 99 yards from a score and don't get a turnover but win with tenacious defense and a extra quick offense. This Gryphon team plays their best when the chips are down and somehow win.
Win or lose Saturday you need to meet the team at the Gym whenever they return. This senior class has given the Gryphon Nation a state championship and on the cusp of a second and a record of 27-4. Show them Saturday night how much you love them. Gryphons 17 South Point 14
Go Gryphons
Thursday, December 15, 2016
Who's Better This Year
The same two teams that played for the title last year are back again this year. Seems as considering they are 15 miles southwest of Charlotte we have become very familiar with the Red Raiders having played them in the 2010 State Championship basketball game.
Neither squad has played a like opponent so who can say who has played the toughest schedule. I am going to tell you one thing the Red Raiders have every right to howl is their defense. They return eight starters off a team that lost in overtime to us last year. They have now won nine games in a row and so far in the state playoffs have given up only six points. Six points total should they shutout the Gryphons would be the state high school record since the playoff system went to five games.
The Match up:
South Point 11-4- Rocky Mount 13-2. South Points four losses were to teams that had a combined 44-11 record this season while the Gryphons two losses were a combined 26-2. South Point started out the season after replacing 22 seniors mostly on offense by losing four of their first six but have now won nine in a row. The sixth game of the season seems light years ago now.
The Red Raiders average 247 yards per game rushing led by Jake Alexander who has footed out 1669 yards on the season at 5.7 yards per tote. The Gryphons counter with 266 yard rushing led by BJ Sanders 1296 yards or 6.8 per carry. South Point for the season has covered 3715 over the turf at 5.7 yards per clip. The Gryphons 3996 and every carry went for 6.3 yards.
Neither team relies on passing as the only player to make a throw for the Red Raiders this season is Scottie Lee. a junior 65-137 1118 yard, 12 touchdowns 11 picks. The Gryphons passing this season 74-133 1082 yards with 7 touchdown and 4 interceptions. Shabious Lynch who has won the quarterback job was on the year 24-44 4 touchdown and zero ints.
Nick Muse is the Red Raiders top pass catcher making 31 catches for 553 yards or 17.8 per catch. That about half of all catches and yards. When the Gryphons throw the ball their main threat is K K Edwards with 45 snags for 685 yards. He has about 65 percent of the catches and yards.
During the nine game win streak in which the Red Raiders have they have given up only 27 points. Last week against Hilbriten who came into the game averaging 366 yards rushing per game they held the undefeated team to 86 yards rushing. Remember they held us last year to 120. If they hold us to around 100 yards rushing this year can we expect to return a kickoff for a touchdown or like at Havelock who held us to under 100 get a pass pick six? Can we get 219 passing like last year. Those kind of questions will be answered Saturday morning in Winston Salem.
Tickets are still on sale at Rocky Mount High School until noon Friday for $9 and call and check on buses with Beluah Battle 467-3759.
Neither squad has played a like opponent so who can say who has played the toughest schedule. I am going to tell you one thing the Red Raiders have every right to howl is their defense. They return eight starters off a team that lost in overtime to us last year. They have now won nine games in a row and so far in the state playoffs have given up only six points. Six points total should they shutout the Gryphons would be the state high school record since the playoff system went to five games.
The Match up:
South Point 11-4- Rocky Mount 13-2. South Points four losses were to teams that had a combined 44-11 record this season while the Gryphons two losses were a combined 26-2. South Point started out the season after replacing 22 seniors mostly on offense by losing four of their first six but have now won nine in a row. The sixth game of the season seems light years ago now.
The Red Raiders average 247 yards per game rushing led by Jake Alexander who has footed out 1669 yards on the season at 5.7 yards per tote. The Gryphons counter with 266 yard rushing led by BJ Sanders 1296 yards or 6.8 per carry. South Point for the season has covered 3715 over the turf at 5.7 yards per clip. The Gryphons 3996 and every carry went for 6.3 yards.
Neither team relies on passing as the only player to make a throw for the Red Raiders this season is Scottie Lee. a junior 65-137 1118 yard, 12 touchdowns 11 picks. The Gryphons passing this season 74-133 1082 yards with 7 touchdown and 4 interceptions. Shabious Lynch who has won the quarterback job was on the year 24-44 4 touchdown and zero ints.
Nick Muse is the Red Raiders top pass catcher making 31 catches for 553 yards or 17.8 per catch. That about half of all catches and yards. When the Gryphons throw the ball their main threat is K K Edwards with 45 snags for 685 yards. He has about 65 percent of the catches and yards.
During the nine game win streak in which the Red Raiders have they have given up only 27 points. Last week against Hilbriten who came into the game averaging 366 yards rushing per game they held the undefeated team to 86 yards rushing. Remember they held us last year to 120. If they hold us to around 100 yards rushing this year can we expect to return a kickoff for a touchdown or like at Havelock who held us to under 100 get a pass pick six? Can we get 219 passing like last year. Those kind of questions will be answered Saturday morning in Winston Salem.
Tickets are still on sale at Rocky Mount High School until noon Friday for $9 and call and check on buses with Beluah Battle 467-3759.
Wednesday, December 14, 2016
It's South Point Again
The 2016 3A football championships will again feature the two teams that played in the 2015 game. Please don't forget the Gryphons trailed in the fourth quarter and don't get the idea that we dominated the game last year. The Red Raider defense held the Gryphon running attack to only 120 yards in last year's game so what makes you think they can't do it again?
It took the best passing night of the season by Forest Bell 219 yards and the blocking and catching to help the Gryphons win their first state football title in 52 years. Let's talk for a minute about the Gryphons. Which team is better this year's squad or last. To the naked eye there is not much difference is there. Then a question is if we are about the same then is there any way we can judge about South Point. They played practically the same schedule as last year and they are back again just like we are.
They did play Shelby who is playing in the 3AA title game while Edenton Holmes is playing in the 2A after we played them this year. Lincolnton who the Red Raiders played got knocked out last week while Middle Creek who we played got knocked out last week too. We should not knock their schedule because they played some really tough teams just as we did. How can we judge how good their schedule is, anyone around here seen anybody on their schedule play?
Pre sale of game tickets remain on sale at Rocky Mount High School for $9. Stop by the school from 8-am-4pm for your purchase. It is 165 miles to Groves Stadium or about two hours and forty minutes driving time with good traffic. There and back is 330 miles or about a tank of gas. A bus ride to the game is only $20 and somebody else is doing the driving so to me the bus rides sounds mighty good. Call Beluah Battle to hitch a ride on the bus. her number is 467-3759
Now let's look at this week's NFL: Last week had a 12-4 week to run my record for the season to 143-68.
Rams @ Seahawks: New coach in LA and Seattle at home 26-10 Seattle
Dolphins @ Jets: I think Dolphins win 26-23
Packers @ Bears: This could be a game in Chicago but I'll stick with Packers 23-17
Browns @ Bills: Haven't given up on a Browns victory but they have a shot against Chargers next week. Bills 26 Browns 19
Eagles @ Ravens: Eagle season is shot and Ravens need this one Ravens 33-17
Titans @Chiefs: Nashville is a threat. Chiefs 19 Titans 17
Steelers @ Bengals: Steelers seem to be for real but game in Cincy will be a game 26-23 Steel Curtin
Lions @ Giants: Giants hold serve 23-19
Colts @ Vikings: Both teams are in need of victory but Vikings win at home. Vikes 33 Colts 28
Jaguars @ Texans: Talk about a team needing a win but Texans still alive for playoffs Houston 27 Jacksonville 17
Saints @ Cardinals: Cards win in the desert. Zona 36 Saints 28
49'ers @ Falcons: 9'ers can't score enough Atlanta 38 San Fran 26
Raiders @ Chargers: Chargers simply don't have anybody healthy. Raiders 30 Philip Rivers 23
Patriots @ Broncos: Pat's 27 Denver 16
Buccaneers @ Cowboys: Don't be surprised if Bucs win but Cowboys hang on 23-21
Panthers @ Redskins: Cam had his one great year and now he has gone back to being the throw off back foot QB. Redskins 26 Panthers 23.
It took the best passing night of the season by Forest Bell 219 yards and the blocking and catching to help the Gryphons win their first state football title in 52 years. Let's talk for a minute about the Gryphons. Which team is better this year's squad or last. To the naked eye there is not much difference is there. Then a question is if we are about the same then is there any way we can judge about South Point. They played practically the same schedule as last year and they are back again just like we are.
They did play Shelby who is playing in the 3AA title game while Edenton Holmes is playing in the 2A after we played them this year. Lincolnton who the Red Raiders played got knocked out last week while Middle Creek who we played got knocked out last week too. We should not knock their schedule because they played some really tough teams just as we did. How can we judge how good their schedule is, anyone around here seen anybody on their schedule play?
Pre sale of game tickets remain on sale at Rocky Mount High School for $9. Stop by the school from 8-am-4pm for your purchase. It is 165 miles to Groves Stadium or about two hours and forty minutes driving time with good traffic. There and back is 330 miles or about a tank of gas. A bus ride to the game is only $20 and somebody else is doing the driving so to me the bus rides sounds mighty good. Call Beluah Battle to hitch a ride on the bus. her number is 467-3759
Now let's look at this week's NFL: Last week had a 12-4 week to run my record for the season to 143-68.
Rams @ Seahawks: New coach in LA and Seattle at home 26-10 Seattle
Dolphins @ Jets: I think Dolphins win 26-23
Packers @ Bears: This could be a game in Chicago but I'll stick with Packers 23-17
Browns @ Bills: Haven't given up on a Browns victory but they have a shot against Chargers next week. Bills 26 Browns 19
Eagles @ Ravens: Eagle season is shot and Ravens need this one Ravens 33-17
Titans @Chiefs: Nashville is a threat. Chiefs 19 Titans 17
Steelers @ Bengals: Steelers seem to be for real but game in Cincy will be a game 26-23 Steel Curtin
Lions @ Giants: Giants hold serve 23-19
Colts @ Vikings: Both teams are in need of victory but Vikings win at home. Vikes 33 Colts 28
Jaguars @ Texans: Talk about a team needing a win but Texans still alive for playoffs Houston 27 Jacksonville 17
Saints @ Cardinals: Cards win in the desert. Zona 36 Saints 28
49'ers @ Falcons: 9'ers can't score enough Atlanta 38 San Fran 26
Raiders @ Chargers: Chargers simply don't have anybody healthy. Raiders 30 Philip Rivers 23
Patriots @ Broncos: Pat's 27 Denver 16
Buccaneers @ Cowboys: Don't be surprised if Bucs win but Cowboys hang on 23-21
Panthers @ Redskins: Cam had his one great year and now he has gone back to being the throw off back foot QB. Redskins 26 Panthers 23.
Tuesday, December 13, 2016
Laugh At Myself
Pre Sell on the State Championship tickets are on sell at Rocky Mount High school through noon Friday for $9 per ticket. If you wait to buy at the gate in Winston Salem tickets will be $10. Tickets are on sale from 8am-4pm. If you would like to ride a bus you can call Beluah Battle at 467-3759. The price for one seat is $20.
Correction: I stated yesterday that the game has been scheduled for 4pm but it is actually still 11:05am. Maxpreps and NCHSAA Brackets were showing 4pm but have been changed. KICKOFF is 11:05
If you were at the game in Havelock I didn't see too many other brave souls wearing shorts. Wes Bradshaw is about the only nut that I saw that was not wrapped up from head to toe. Most people had on so many clothes it was hard to tell who they were coming into the stands.
I had on two pair of socks, two pants, a pull over shirt, a sweat shirt with hood and a heavy coat. You can guess that it was an event to try to go to the bathroom with all the layers that people were wearing. I went to the bathroom at halftime and my feet got cold for the first time on the walk around to the bathroom on the damp ground other than that I was fine the whole game.
The game is over and heading to the car I reached for my keys and did not feel them. As I was walking I said to myself you know I didn't leave them in the car. When we got to the car my door was locked and now panic sets in as I have no keys and I am 115 miles from home.
My son Brooks, two church friends Bobby English and Andy Holt and I am now in an all out search for my keys. We retraced what I could remember every step I took from the time we got out of the car until we got back. I actually had to undress on the two stops I made to the bathroom so I knew for sure they would be there some where. We looked under the bleachers on the bleachers.
Desperate I am now seeking help from anyone from Havelock who might be able to find out if any keys had been turned in to the press box. I started with a gentleman who was standing near the exits observing everyone as they were leaving who had a radio. He sent me to see the man who was riding around on the golf cart who also had a radio. He went to now the almost empty press box to see if keys had been turned in there. Still no keys. Finally a police officer from Havelock's Finest with flashlight in hand searched under the bleachers again and walked to my car with us. He looked to see if my keys were in the ignition and even as we were dressing at the stadium putting on all the layers of clothes he used his light to check to see if I laid them in the hatch back and shut the lid that it locked with my keys. Still no keys.
What do we do now? Chase Miller's family parked just a couple of spaces from us volunteered to carry some of my crowd home with them but we held out hope. Greg Pierce Class of 1986 who had driven by himself from his home in the Holly Springs area volunteered to load us up and carry us to Rocky Mount and then head to his Home.
With no keys to be found, can't believe someone would pick up a set of keys not turn them in to someone. What are you going to do with a set of keys if you don't know who they belong to. We now have no choice. If you will Greg please carry us home and I will come back tomorrow and get my car.
Greg has a Mazda 3 Hatchback. We are now going to load five people into the car and three of us Bobby, Andy and Myself do a good job of filling any car up. We will now be sitting on top of each other and make the trip to Rocky Mount.
Greg puts his hatchback up and we are peeling off all the layers of clothes we have on and as I start to pull my first pair of pants off If feel something move under my belt. I felt and my keys were in my pants pocket but some how or other the pocket was inside out and my keys were wrapped around my pocket which somehow or other is tucked under my belt.
Oh my gosh I found them. There is a major celebration as we will not have to ride in Greg's Mazda doubled up and I will not have to return Saturday to pick up my car. In all this took about 40 minutes of searching. By this time there is not many left in the parking lot and right out to the street we go.
Many thanks to the Miller's and Greg for trying to give aid to an idiot. Other than that it was a great ball game.
Correction: I stated yesterday that the game has been scheduled for 4pm but it is actually still 11:05am. Maxpreps and NCHSAA Brackets were showing 4pm but have been changed. KICKOFF is 11:05
If you were at the game in Havelock I didn't see too many other brave souls wearing shorts. Wes Bradshaw is about the only nut that I saw that was not wrapped up from head to toe. Most people had on so many clothes it was hard to tell who they were coming into the stands.
I had on two pair of socks, two pants, a pull over shirt, a sweat shirt with hood and a heavy coat. You can guess that it was an event to try to go to the bathroom with all the layers that people were wearing. I went to the bathroom at halftime and my feet got cold for the first time on the walk around to the bathroom on the damp ground other than that I was fine the whole game.
The game is over and heading to the car I reached for my keys and did not feel them. As I was walking I said to myself you know I didn't leave them in the car. When we got to the car my door was locked and now panic sets in as I have no keys and I am 115 miles from home.
My son Brooks, two church friends Bobby English and Andy Holt and I am now in an all out search for my keys. We retraced what I could remember every step I took from the time we got out of the car until we got back. I actually had to undress on the two stops I made to the bathroom so I knew for sure they would be there some where. We looked under the bleachers on the bleachers.
Desperate I am now seeking help from anyone from Havelock who might be able to find out if any keys had been turned in to the press box. I started with a gentleman who was standing near the exits observing everyone as they were leaving who had a radio. He sent me to see the man who was riding around on the golf cart who also had a radio. He went to now the almost empty press box to see if keys had been turned in there. Still no keys. Finally a police officer from Havelock's Finest with flashlight in hand searched under the bleachers again and walked to my car with us. He looked to see if my keys were in the ignition and even as we were dressing at the stadium putting on all the layers of clothes he used his light to check to see if I laid them in the hatch back and shut the lid that it locked with my keys. Still no keys.
What do we do now? Chase Miller's family parked just a couple of spaces from us volunteered to carry some of my crowd home with them but we held out hope. Greg Pierce Class of 1986 who had driven by himself from his home in the Holly Springs area volunteered to load us up and carry us to Rocky Mount and then head to his Home.
With no keys to be found, can't believe someone would pick up a set of keys not turn them in to someone. What are you going to do with a set of keys if you don't know who they belong to. We now have no choice. If you will Greg please carry us home and I will come back tomorrow and get my car.
Greg has a Mazda 3 Hatchback. We are now going to load five people into the car and three of us Bobby, Andy and Myself do a good job of filling any car up. We will now be sitting on top of each other and make the trip to Rocky Mount.
Greg puts his hatchback up and we are peeling off all the layers of clothes we have on and as I start to pull my first pair of pants off If feel something move under my belt. I felt and my keys were in my pants pocket but some how or other the pocket was inside out and my keys were wrapped around my pocket which somehow or other is tucked under my belt.
Oh my gosh I found them. There is a major celebration as we will not have to ride in Greg's Mazda doubled up and I will not have to return Saturday to pick up my car. In all this took about 40 minutes of searching. By this time there is not many left in the parking lot and right out to the street we go.
Many thanks to the Miller's and Greg for trying to give aid to an idiot. Other than that it was a great ball game.
Monday, December 12, 2016
You Should Have Been There
Every Time you win it just makes the next game bigger. Every ball game has great plays throughout a game but those plays in the important games standout forever. I don't know if there has ever been a circumstance where you can get any closer to losing than the Gryphons were in Friday night. Down by 7 and the other team on you one yard line with 30 seconds to go.
99.9 yards from the goal line and Havelock coaches told their defender to cover the slant. Havelock's thinking is we have rushed the quarterback all night they will not have time to unload a bomb. Revis was so wide open that the defender was a good five yards behind the streaking Detrelle Revis who had to wait on the ball and all he had to do then was not fall down and run like the wind.
Sherrod Green injured for most of the fourth quarter after a helmet hit him in the knee made his longest run of the night in over time 10 yards to tie the game. He will now have to send in a letter to the Shrine Bowl declining his opportunity to play in the North Carolina /South Carolina Bowl game next Saturday as he will have something more important to do. That is a leftover factor from Hurricane Matthew and the state championships being pushed back a week.
The hero of the State championship game last year Chase Miller did it again In Havelock. How in the world is not every major school in the country at least looking at him. Early in the season the long snapper was an issue which made Miller look a little wobbly kicking. Some minor injuries hampered his kicking for much of the season. Now when we need him most Chase is at the top of his game.
There is no doubt two great defenses took the field against each other. I was not that impressed with the Havelock offense but I am sure the Havelock fans didn't see much with the Gryphon offense either. Their quarterback lacked speed and looked to be getting big yardage several times but we chased him down for six yard gains. The Rams defense bottled the Gryphon offense all night and including sacks held the Gryphons to less than 100 yards rushing. Last year in the championship game the Gryphons only got 120 in the game and yet we won both because of our defense kept us in the game and the passing game came through when we needed it most.
One of the really good things about high school sports is the players put out every ounce that they have in athletic competition and the cost is reasonable compared to what you pay to see a college game or professional game. The crowd was about one person deep around the stadium as all the seats were filled. I know the Gryphon fans could have been more but Havelock is a haul for the working man on a Friday Night after work.
You may have Seen a couple of weeks ago when the announcement was made where the state championship games were going to be played the 3A game was set for 11:05 Saturday morning. The game's time has been moved to 4pm.
This two year run that Rocky Mount High school has going in football has been some memorable moments we will be meeting a team that will have every reason to seek revenge after we came back in the fourth quarter last season to win the title.
This game is the prime example of never leave a game before it is over. Many Havelock fans in their cars came back in once they got in their cars turned on the radio and found out the Gryphons had tied it. There were several fans on the Rocky Mount side that left. I wonder did they know to listen to the Havelock radio broadcast once in their cars or did they drive home thinking the Gryphons lost.
99.9 yards from the goal line and Havelock coaches told their defender to cover the slant. Havelock's thinking is we have rushed the quarterback all night they will not have time to unload a bomb. Revis was so wide open that the defender was a good five yards behind the streaking Detrelle Revis who had to wait on the ball and all he had to do then was not fall down and run like the wind.
Sherrod Green injured for most of the fourth quarter after a helmet hit him in the knee made his longest run of the night in over time 10 yards to tie the game. He will now have to send in a letter to the Shrine Bowl declining his opportunity to play in the North Carolina /South Carolina Bowl game next Saturday as he will have something more important to do. That is a leftover factor from Hurricane Matthew and the state championships being pushed back a week.
The hero of the State championship game last year Chase Miller did it again In Havelock. How in the world is not every major school in the country at least looking at him. Early in the season the long snapper was an issue which made Miller look a little wobbly kicking. Some minor injuries hampered his kicking for much of the season. Now when we need him most Chase is at the top of his game.
There is no doubt two great defenses took the field against each other. I was not that impressed with the Havelock offense but I am sure the Havelock fans didn't see much with the Gryphon offense either. Their quarterback lacked speed and looked to be getting big yardage several times but we chased him down for six yard gains. The Rams defense bottled the Gryphon offense all night and including sacks held the Gryphons to less than 100 yards rushing. Last year in the championship game the Gryphons only got 120 in the game and yet we won both because of our defense kept us in the game and the passing game came through when we needed it most.
One of the really good things about high school sports is the players put out every ounce that they have in athletic competition and the cost is reasonable compared to what you pay to see a college game or professional game. The crowd was about one person deep around the stadium as all the seats were filled. I know the Gryphon fans could have been more but Havelock is a haul for the working man on a Friday Night after work.
You may have Seen a couple of weeks ago when the announcement was made where the state championship games were going to be played the 3A game was set for 11:05 Saturday morning. The game's time has been moved to 4pm.
This two year run that Rocky Mount High school has going in football has been some memorable moments we will be meeting a team that will have every reason to seek revenge after we came back in the fourth quarter last season to win the title.
This game is the prime example of never leave a game before it is over. Many Havelock fans in their cars came back in once they got in their cars turned on the radio and found out the Gryphons had tied it. There were several fans on the Rocky Mount side that left. I wonder did they know to listen to the Havelock radio broadcast once in their cars or did they drive home thinking the Gryphons lost.
Sunday, December 11, 2016
Another Friend Gone
I have been kicking around this world in sports radio and TV since 1971. Along the way I have crossed paths with many a person in the radio and TV business. I spent 18 months in Roanoke Rapids when a group of Ahoskie Business men opened a radio station there in 1974, Working in radio or any media organization it is much like a fireman, policeman that your job gets in your blood and it will be there for ever. I like so many others have had a hard time escaping the haunting of radio, TV even after I quit full time and I have continued part time in sports announcing or anything related to it.
It was 1974 and as we were about to put WPTM on the air a gentleman who was a supervisor at J P Stevenson 3rd shift was hanging around wanting to be a salesman part time. His name was Earl Telliga. Long after the Stevens plants shut down Earl has been in radio. 1989 I had a sales job where I set my own appointments and from 6am to 10 everyday I was the Morning man on the Murfreesboro FM station and after I got off went and sold my goods unrelated to radio. When I left the radio job Earl Telliga took my place in Murfreesboro and he has been there ever since. Near 1999 he became station manager and morning man until the day he died.
I have done over the years several games on the radio from the football field in Roanoke Rapids. The first time I ever did a game on radio I sat beside their PA announcer. That guys name was Earl Telliga. 43 years he did Roanoke Rapids PA and never missed one game. I have been doing games both on radio, TV and PA and I have missed several games for some reason over the years.
Last weekend Earl passed from this world after he learned in the summer of 2015 he had Colon Cancer. He worked the morning show right to the end. The older I get my friends keep leaving this earth and another one has gone to the press box in the sky. Earl was 78. He had started in radio at the age of 16 working at WCBT radio in Roanoke Rapids and gets 62 years credit in the business. If I ever do another game from the press box in Roanoke Rapids it will not be the same hearing that nasally voice no longer. So Long good friend.
Today my children are giving me a Christmas present as we are going to Charlotte to see the Carolina Panthers play the San Diego Chargers. I follow the Chargers because of Philip Rivers. If I can make any kind of personal link with any professional I follow them closely. Once Rivers retires I will not care one thing about the Chargers but this is only the second time San Diego has played in Charlotte since Rivers began playing professional football.
That was 2004 his rookie year and he never got off the bench as the third string quarterback. I was there when they opened the gates and during warm ups he and second string quarterback Doug Flutie played a game. Each stood on the 40 yard line and threw 10 balls aiming to hit the cross bar on the goal post. Flutie not all that big of a player had to take a running start to fling the ball 50 yards never hit the cross bar once while Philip smacked it four times standing rather flat footed. Of course that made my day just seeing him do that and the Panthers won the game 17-7. I will be in Wolfpack Red hoping that Philip goes 30-35 510 yards and 5 touchdowns and no interceptions . I don't care if they lose I want Philip to have a great day since this will be the first time I have seen him play in person since N C State.
Is it time to go yet?
It was 1974 and as we were about to put WPTM on the air a gentleman who was a supervisor at J P Stevenson 3rd shift was hanging around wanting to be a salesman part time. His name was Earl Telliga. Long after the Stevens plants shut down Earl has been in radio. 1989 I had a sales job where I set my own appointments and from 6am to 10 everyday I was the Morning man on the Murfreesboro FM station and after I got off went and sold my goods unrelated to radio. When I left the radio job Earl Telliga took my place in Murfreesboro and he has been there ever since. Near 1999 he became station manager and morning man until the day he died.
I have done over the years several games on the radio from the football field in Roanoke Rapids. The first time I ever did a game on radio I sat beside their PA announcer. That guys name was Earl Telliga. 43 years he did Roanoke Rapids PA and never missed one game. I have been doing games both on radio, TV and PA and I have missed several games for some reason over the years.
Last weekend Earl passed from this world after he learned in the summer of 2015 he had Colon Cancer. He worked the morning show right to the end. The older I get my friends keep leaving this earth and another one has gone to the press box in the sky. Earl was 78. He had started in radio at the age of 16 working at WCBT radio in Roanoke Rapids and gets 62 years credit in the business. If I ever do another game from the press box in Roanoke Rapids it will not be the same hearing that nasally voice no longer. So Long good friend.
Today my children are giving me a Christmas present as we are going to Charlotte to see the Carolina Panthers play the San Diego Chargers. I follow the Chargers because of Philip Rivers. If I can make any kind of personal link with any professional I follow them closely. Once Rivers retires I will not care one thing about the Chargers but this is only the second time San Diego has played in Charlotte since Rivers began playing professional football.
That was 2004 his rookie year and he never got off the bench as the third string quarterback. I was there when they opened the gates and during warm ups he and second string quarterback Doug Flutie played a game. Each stood on the 40 yard line and threw 10 balls aiming to hit the cross bar on the goal post. Flutie not all that big of a player had to take a running start to fling the ball 50 yards never hit the cross bar once while Philip smacked it four times standing rather flat footed. Of course that made my day just seeing him do that and the Panthers won the game 17-7. I will be in Wolfpack Red hoping that Philip goes 30-35 510 yards and 5 touchdowns and no interceptions . I don't care if they lose I want Philip to have a great day since this will be the first time I have seen him play in person since N C State.
Is it time to go yet?
Saturday, December 10, 2016
Never Give Up
Under three minutes to go in the game down 17-10 and after a failed fourth down and eight produced only four yards those unfaithful fans that don't believe in the Gryphons started heading to the exit for the long drive home. The far side line Ram fans started heading out joyous of their fifth trip to the state finals in six years. It could get no worse the Rams have a fourth Down at the Gryphon one yard line with 30 seconds to go another score puts the game out of reach.
The Gryphons in fact held on four straight downs inside the five yard line to give a staggering offense 25 seconds and one more chance. Enter number 31 Detrelle Revis who's only offensive play of the night will stand as maybe the greatest play in Gryphons history. Split out as the flanker on the left side Revis streaked straight up the field and caught the defender standing at the 10 yard line flat footed and Shabios Lynch toss was on target to a wide open Revis who out ran the entire Havelock secondary 99 yards to cut the lead to one with 18.5 seconds.
Enter number 41 Chase Miller listening to the Havelock fans cheer block that kicked egged the Ram Fans to get louder and smacked the tying points on the board. Three passing plays put Havelock into position to try to win on a 41 yard field goal. The kick started out straight and true but was ten yards short but many Havelock fans and players went wild thinking they had made it but overtime.
Havelock took three plays to score while the Gryphons use a sweep left by DeAngelo Collins to tie. The second overtime series both teams kicked field goals to tie at 27 after double overtime. The Rams scored in three plays but the snap on the 34th point was low and the kick sailed wide left. Sherrod Green who took a helmet to the knee missed about most of the fourth quarter but his only carry of over time was his longest run of the night as he scores on the first play and ties the game.
Enter Chase Miller who already on this night is the MVP at that point two field goals, three extra points and several punts which keep the Rams bottled up plus his kickoffs which none were returned out past the 25. The kick is right down the middle and the Gryphons are headed to Winston Salem next Saturday to have a rematch with South Point.
The Havelock defense bottled up the Gryphon Rushing attack holding the Gryphons to 66 yards rushing. Lynch was 3-5 for 113 yards . Havelock put the whole load on quarterback Corey Cooper rushing 24 times 71 yards while rest of team had 47 yards. Cooper was 8-15 for 102 yards.
The Gryphons got a 27 yard field goal at the 5:27 mark of the first quarter to start the scoring. Havelock scored their first points came at 11:53 of the second quarter Corey Cooper scored from two yards out to give the Rams a 7-3 lead. The Gryphons took the lead back at 2:32 of the half when Shyheim Battle picked off a Cooper pass and returned it to the house to give the Gryphons a10-7 halftime lead.
A Rocky Mount 3 and out started a Ram drive that produced the tying field at 4: 51 in the third. A Havelock punt rolled dead at the Gryphon one foot line and on the second play running an option Lynch was hit behind the line and Destin Flyod scooped up the ball to give Havelock the lead with five minutes to play.
There are fans who left early have no idea who won the game but the Gryphons pull a Houdini and live to play another State Championship 34-33 over Havelock.
The Gryphons in fact held on four straight downs inside the five yard line to give a staggering offense 25 seconds and one more chance. Enter number 31 Detrelle Revis who's only offensive play of the night will stand as maybe the greatest play in Gryphons history. Split out as the flanker on the left side Revis streaked straight up the field and caught the defender standing at the 10 yard line flat footed and Shabios Lynch toss was on target to a wide open Revis who out ran the entire Havelock secondary 99 yards to cut the lead to one with 18.5 seconds.
Enter number 41 Chase Miller listening to the Havelock fans cheer block that kicked egged the Ram Fans to get louder and smacked the tying points on the board. Three passing plays put Havelock into position to try to win on a 41 yard field goal. The kick started out straight and true but was ten yards short but many Havelock fans and players went wild thinking they had made it but overtime.
Havelock took three plays to score while the Gryphons use a sweep left by DeAngelo Collins to tie. The second overtime series both teams kicked field goals to tie at 27 after double overtime. The Rams scored in three plays but the snap on the 34th point was low and the kick sailed wide left. Sherrod Green who took a helmet to the knee missed about most of the fourth quarter but his only carry of over time was his longest run of the night as he scores on the first play and ties the game.
Enter Chase Miller who already on this night is the MVP at that point two field goals, three extra points and several punts which keep the Rams bottled up plus his kickoffs which none were returned out past the 25. The kick is right down the middle and the Gryphons are headed to Winston Salem next Saturday to have a rematch with South Point.
The Havelock defense bottled up the Gryphon Rushing attack holding the Gryphons to 66 yards rushing. Lynch was 3-5 for 113 yards . Havelock put the whole load on quarterback Corey Cooper rushing 24 times 71 yards while rest of team had 47 yards. Cooper was 8-15 for 102 yards.
The Gryphons got a 27 yard field goal at the 5:27 mark of the first quarter to start the scoring. Havelock scored their first points came at 11:53 of the second quarter Corey Cooper scored from two yards out to give the Rams a 7-3 lead. The Gryphons took the lead back at 2:32 of the half when Shyheim Battle picked off a Cooper pass and returned it to the house to give the Gryphons a10-7 halftime lead.
A Rocky Mount 3 and out started a Ram drive that produced the tying field at 4: 51 in the third. A Havelock punt rolled dead at the Gryphon one foot line and on the second play running an option Lynch was hit behind the line and Destin Flyod scooped up the ball to give Havelock the lead with five minutes to play.
There are fans who left early have no idea who won the game but the Gryphons pull a Houdini and live to play another State Championship 34-33 over Havelock.
Friday, December 9, 2016
Long John Weather Tonight
People talk about global warming an I believe in it but not because of a hole in the atmosphere but because today 6 billion people at 98.6 degrees each is the big problem. Growing up in Ahoskie we always played Williamston the ninth game of the season so it was either the last Friday night in October or the first Friday night in November. Whenever we played at Williamston it was always freezing. Most said it was the wind blowing off the Roanoke River. What ever the reason that game you had better have your long johns on.
The weather forecast for today and tonight is 43 for a high today and by dawn Saturday 23 degrees. I would suspect by the time the sun goes down in will be in the 30's and maybe freezing by the end of the game. In the old days I wore two pair of socks, two pair of pants and as many coats and sweat shirts that I could get on. Sounds like old times tonight.
Both Tarboro and Rocky Mount have rather lengthy trips to Teachey and Havelock. Both need to bring their A games in order to advance to next week's State Championship weekends. This is the time of year it only seems fair that to advance you need to play your best. All four teams Wallace Rose Hill and Havelock along Tarboro and Rocky Mount are playing at championship caliber level.
I think in order for the Vikings to win they will need to pass some in order to open up the run. High school football in the recent future has become a passing world. Teams that pass 15-20 times a game generally are not physical teams because the pass makes you a more passive team because blockers are backing up in protection over power driving foward.
When Rocky Mount played West Craven in 2008 West Craven passed a lot. There is a big difference between the Gryphon football teams of 2007/08 that made the Regionsl finals. Those two years speed was the the primary Gryphon strength. The 15/16 Gryphons have as much speed as 07/08 but I believe the recent Gryphons have a lot more power. Power and speed will out do the other team with speed only as the night wears on.
Looking at last year during the playoffs Rocky Mount trailed in four of the five playoff games but beat down every team as the game wore on. Look at this year they wore down Southern Lee trailing by two touchdowns in the third quarter. Against Southern Nash they had no answer for Sherrod Green who they did not see as a running back in the first meeting in fact he spent time in the sidelines in the first meeting with an ailing shoulder. Last week from the opening play Southern Guilford was no match for Rocky Mount speed or power. All of this power stuff will go right out the window with a couple of lost fumbles.
Tonight the Gryphons will be taking on a team that can run or pass. If there is one area the Gryphons have yielded the most yardage it has been through the air. Havelock could hurt the Gryphons big time if they don't get a pass rush. We will need to shut down the run so the pass is the big worry. If we don't stop the run it will open up the pass.
The Coastal Conference I would call a passing league which brings on the question has Havelock seen a team with the speed and power like the Gryphons. If they haven't the Gryphons can win. Need to get there early because Havelock officials are expecting a huge crowd. The stadium is similar to Gryphon Stadium so 4-5 thousand people can be seated.
Those who can't get off in time to get to the game or don't want to sit in the cold the game will be on the radio tonight on 103.7. Hope you can be there. Be loud, be proud and dress warmly. It will seem like old times.
The weather forecast for today and tonight is 43 for a high today and by dawn Saturday 23 degrees. I would suspect by the time the sun goes down in will be in the 30's and maybe freezing by the end of the game. In the old days I wore two pair of socks, two pair of pants and as many coats and sweat shirts that I could get on. Sounds like old times tonight.
Both Tarboro and Rocky Mount have rather lengthy trips to Teachey and Havelock. Both need to bring their A games in order to advance to next week's State Championship weekends. This is the time of year it only seems fair that to advance you need to play your best. All four teams Wallace Rose Hill and Havelock along Tarboro and Rocky Mount are playing at championship caliber level.
I think in order for the Vikings to win they will need to pass some in order to open up the run. High school football in the recent future has become a passing world. Teams that pass 15-20 times a game generally are not physical teams because the pass makes you a more passive team because blockers are backing up in protection over power driving foward.
When Rocky Mount played West Craven in 2008 West Craven passed a lot. There is a big difference between the Gryphon football teams of 2007/08 that made the Regionsl finals. Those two years speed was the the primary Gryphon strength. The 15/16 Gryphons have as much speed as 07/08 but I believe the recent Gryphons have a lot more power. Power and speed will out do the other team with speed only as the night wears on.
Looking at last year during the playoffs Rocky Mount trailed in four of the five playoff games but beat down every team as the game wore on. Look at this year they wore down Southern Lee trailing by two touchdowns in the third quarter. Against Southern Nash they had no answer for Sherrod Green who they did not see as a running back in the first meeting in fact he spent time in the sidelines in the first meeting with an ailing shoulder. Last week from the opening play Southern Guilford was no match for Rocky Mount speed or power. All of this power stuff will go right out the window with a couple of lost fumbles.
Tonight the Gryphons will be taking on a team that can run or pass. If there is one area the Gryphons have yielded the most yardage it has been through the air. Havelock could hurt the Gryphons big time if they don't get a pass rush. We will need to shut down the run so the pass is the big worry. If we don't stop the run it will open up the pass.
The Coastal Conference I would call a passing league which brings on the question has Havelock seen a team with the speed and power like the Gryphons. If they haven't the Gryphons can win. Need to get there early because Havelock officials are expecting a huge crowd. The stadium is similar to Gryphon Stadium so 4-5 thousand people can be seated.
Those who can't get off in time to get to the game or don't want to sit in the cold the game will be on the radio tonight on 103.7. Hope you can be there. Be loud, be proud and dress warmly. It will seem like old times.
Thursday, December 8, 2016
These Are The Type Games You Practice To Play In
Good news for Gryphon fans stuck in Rocky Mount Friday night. 103.7 WTIB-FM will be broadcasting the game from Havelock. We need for you to thank the good folks at Speight Trophies as they are sponsoring the game on the radio.
Last week went 3-0 on my high school playoff picks and so far this playoffs 12-1. Only two teams left from this area and these are the only two games we will pick this week.
Tarboro is back in a Regional Final. They play a team it seems they have met a lot over this decade of Jeff Craddock. I think an over riding factor in this game is Wallace Rose Hill moves up to 2A in next year's realignment. WRH much like Tarboro can hang with many 3A schools.
Last week the Viking D saved the day in a 13-7 victory. I don't think 13 points can win this one. The Road ends for the Tarboro Vikings WRH 21 Tarboro 13
Rocky Mount 12-2 @ Havelock 13-1: Looking at who these two teams have lost to you can throw the losses out the door. The three losses these two teams have are a combined 39-3 looking at the records of West Craven, Southern Nash and Middle Creek.
There is a beauty to watch a team stumbles along like the Gryphons did during conference play and I think most who saw them think team attitude was a major factor. Yes a change was made at quarterback that since the change the offense has found that mojo that had been missing. Also the change occurred at the moment that the Gryphons were slapped in the face by Southern Lee and the Gryphons found themselves down by 14 midway of the third quarter of the first playoff game. The entire team faced the reality that if we don't get it done now it is over. They have been getting it done ever since.
The only loss for Havelock this season happened over two night period as they started their game with West Craven but the rains from Hurricane Matthew ended the game in the middle and when finished days later West Craven upset Havelock 21-14, Neither of these two teams have been blown off the field by anybody.
I think this is the biggest football game Rocky Mount has been in since Western Alamance in 2008. I not talking about the state championship game not being big but the quality of the program we are facing. I do admit South Point and all those teams from their conference are just as great of programs as anybody wants to meet but in this Rocky Mount/ Havelock game two teams are meeting playing at the apex of their potential during great periods in their football History.
The winner receives a trip next Saturday to BB&T Stadium for an 11:05 start in Winston Salem. I have looked on every map site there is and I don't think there is a better way to get to Havelock than this. Take Hwy 64 east to Highway 11 at Bethel. Stay on 11 joined by 13 just outside Greenville and turn on 264 E bypass and go around Greenville 264 will turn left in a couple of miles but stay straight until you get to the Mall on your left and ECU on your right take a left on hwy 43 to Vanceboro which will run you into Hwy 17 bear right and stay on 17 until the you cross the Neuse River and get in the lane getting on Hwy 70 east to Havelock. Once in Havelock take Webb Blvd which will also show signs to enter Cherry Point. Go about a mile and the school is on the right. It's stadium is about the size of Our stadium. Good traffic it will take 2 hours and 21 minutes. Good luck with the Greenville 5 o'clock traffic around Christmas.
I could easily see this as an overtime game. I know Havelock is playing superior football but I'm sticking with the Gryphons 24-21.
Wednesday, December 7, 2016
Tarboro 4th Round and The NFL
Before we get started on the NFL picks for this week let's look at what the Tarboro Vikings matchup Friday with Wallace Rose Hill.
Tarboro Vikings 12-2 @ Wallace Rose Hill 13-1: This is a matchup of two giant 1-A schools that their toughest competition during the entire season was their non conference schedule as there is no other team in each one's league that could push either one this season.
WRH's lone loss was to Clinton who lost for the first time last week in the 2-A playoffs. They lost 35-21. Tarboro's two losses were to Northern Nash and Southern Nash in a 96 hour span. I am looking at this deal if Clinton played Southern Nash could they beat them? I doubt it. Could Clinton beat Northern Nash? Maybe. So my question is who played the tougher schedule. They falls Tarboro's way.
Wallace Rose Hill rushes for 263 yards per game while the Vikings 294. WRH passes for 82 while Tarboro 23 yards. WRH total yards per game of 345 while Tarboro 317. WRH scores 39.7 per game while Tarboro scores at a pace of 37.7. Wallace Rose Hill gives up 7.9 points points per night while the Vikings yield 6.1. This games sure looks like a 7-6 type eastern final.
I see no reason at all not to pick the Vikings. One thing worries me about this outing. East Carteret went for a 4th and 8 and 4th and 2 on their own 20 twice and the Vikings stop them. All the Vikings got were two field goals. The Vikings had trouble in round three moving the ball. Why will it be easier in round four against a better team. My Pick is WRH 13-7
Now the NFL
Last week 10-5 running my record for the year 129-62. Now the picks
Raiders @ Chiefs best game of the week against two teams from AFC west and both will make playoffs. Chiefs 23 Raiders 21
Steelers @ Bills Steelers 27 Bills 23
Bronco's @ Titans. Can't see Denver scoring enough to win Titans 20 Bronco's 17
Redskins @ Eagles I think Redskins are better. 30 Redskins 23 Eagles
Cardinals @ Dolphins Dolphins recover from last week's disaster. Miami 27 Cardinals 24
Vikings @ Jaguars Minnesota D will hold Jags down. Vikes 26 Jags 17
Texans @ Colts. Looks like Colts getting hot at right time. Colts 24 Texans 23
Chargers @ Panthers. It will be first time that I have seen Philip Rivers under quarterback since NC State. The last time Chargers were in Charlotte was 2004 Rivers was a rookie and never got off the bench. How lucky can a guy be for my favorite two teams playing each other Will be pulling for Philip Rivers to have a great day win or lose. Chargers 35 Panthers 33
Bengals @ Browns. Browns had a week to rest to try to win their first. Interstate rival might do the trick. Cleveland 26 Cincy 23
Bears @ Lions Lions surging Detroit 36 Bears 24
Jets @ 49'ers San Fran may win one. SF 22 Jets 29
Saints @ Bucs Buc's showed me some defense at San Diego. Tampa 33 Saints 23
Falcons @ Rams just can't score enough to win this one Atl 23 Rams 17
Seahawks @ Packers No reason Packers win this game except Seattle sometimes flops on the road. Looks like Russell Wilson getting healthy Hawks 26 Packers 23
Cowboys @ Giants Giants have defense to win this game but do they have the offense to beat Boys. Giants 23 Dallas 21
Ravens @ Patriots Ravens could win this game but Pats take them down New England 26 Ravens 20
Tarboro Vikings 12-2 @ Wallace Rose Hill 13-1: This is a matchup of two giant 1-A schools that their toughest competition during the entire season was their non conference schedule as there is no other team in each one's league that could push either one this season.
WRH's lone loss was to Clinton who lost for the first time last week in the 2-A playoffs. They lost 35-21. Tarboro's two losses were to Northern Nash and Southern Nash in a 96 hour span. I am looking at this deal if Clinton played Southern Nash could they beat them? I doubt it. Could Clinton beat Northern Nash? Maybe. So my question is who played the tougher schedule. They falls Tarboro's way.
Wallace Rose Hill rushes for 263 yards per game while the Vikings 294. WRH passes for 82 while Tarboro 23 yards. WRH total yards per game of 345 while Tarboro 317. WRH scores 39.7 per game while Tarboro scores at a pace of 37.7. Wallace Rose Hill gives up 7.9 points points per night while the Vikings yield 6.1. This games sure looks like a 7-6 type eastern final.
I see no reason at all not to pick the Vikings. One thing worries me about this outing. East Carteret went for a 4th and 8 and 4th and 2 on their own 20 twice and the Vikings stop them. All the Vikings got were two field goals. The Vikings had trouble in round three moving the ball. Why will it be easier in round four against a better team. My Pick is WRH 13-7
Now the NFL
Last week 10-5 running my record for the year 129-62. Now the picks
Raiders @ Chiefs best game of the week against two teams from AFC west and both will make playoffs. Chiefs 23 Raiders 21
Steelers @ Bills Steelers 27 Bills 23
Bronco's @ Titans. Can't see Denver scoring enough to win Titans 20 Bronco's 17
Redskins @ Eagles I think Redskins are better. 30 Redskins 23 Eagles
Cardinals @ Dolphins Dolphins recover from last week's disaster. Miami 27 Cardinals 24
Vikings @ Jaguars Minnesota D will hold Jags down. Vikes 26 Jags 17
Texans @ Colts. Looks like Colts getting hot at right time. Colts 24 Texans 23
Chargers @ Panthers. It will be first time that I have seen Philip Rivers under quarterback since NC State. The last time Chargers were in Charlotte was 2004 Rivers was a rookie and never got off the bench. How lucky can a guy be for my favorite two teams playing each other Will be pulling for Philip Rivers to have a great day win or lose. Chargers 35 Panthers 33
Bengals @ Browns. Browns had a week to rest to try to win their first. Interstate rival might do the trick. Cleveland 26 Cincy 23
Bears @ Lions Lions surging Detroit 36 Bears 24
Jets @ 49'ers San Fran may win one. SF 22 Jets 29
Saints @ Bucs Buc's showed me some defense at San Diego. Tampa 33 Saints 23
Falcons @ Rams just can't score enough to win this one Atl 23 Rams 17
Seahawks @ Packers No reason Packers win this game except Seattle sometimes flops on the road. Looks like Russell Wilson getting healthy Hawks 26 Packers 23
Cowboys @ Giants Giants have defense to win this game but do they have the offense to beat Boys. Giants 23 Dallas 21
Ravens @ Patriots Ravens could win this game but Pats take them down New England 26 Ravens 20
Tuesday, December 6, 2016
How Great Can A Matchup Be
Havelock High School is playing in the seventh Eastern Final in the last eight years. Rocky Mount is playing in their fourth in the last ten years. One state title resides in Rocky Mount while Havelock has won three titles since 2011. These kind of matchups don't happen that often. There is one good thing that this game is in Havelock. They have won 44 straight road games with not counting state championship games because of the neutral site.
This is truly what matchups in the playoffs are suppose to be and I will continue to plea for the state to drop one playoff game. Both of these teams finished second in their conference and both won the playoff rematch with the conference champions. If you go to the NCHSAA website ten football conferences are classified as 3-A. There are those that are in split 4A/3A or 3A/2A but only 17 conferences listing 3A. There are a total of 100 schools listed as 3A. 64 make the playoffs. There is no pride in making the playoffs. Let's cut the playoff field back to 32 when you know the top two from each full 3A conference makes it and in some cases only one from a split league get in. Let's drop one game and only invite the best overall record of all others to make a 32 team field.
Neither of these two teams had to worry if they were going to make the playoffs as Havelock comes in 13-1 while Rocky Mount 12-2. The only Ram loss was to West Craven 12-1. Rocky Mount two losses were to Middle Creek 14-0 and Southern Nash 12-1. It is of note the Edenton Aces who the Gryphons beat in Edenton are still alive in the 2A playoffs.
Havelock has scored 573 points in 14 games for a 40.92 points per game average. The Gryphons counter scoring 451 or 32.21. The Rams have rushed for 3087 yards on the season but Friday night only got 96 in the game and still scored 24 points. That 3087 works out to a 220 yards per game rushing. Rocky Mount have hit for 4026 or a 287 yards per game average rushing. The Rams add 192 (2896 yards passing to their repertoire while the Gryphons another 75 1132. Per game Havelock moves the ball on average 412 yards while the Gryphons 368.
The other side of the ball the Rams have been stingy giving up only 151 or 10.78 per game. The Gryphons counter attack on defense with a defense that has given up 251 or 17.92. A guessing man that I am the winner will struggle to get to 20 in this game.
These two have played one like opponent and that is Rose High. The Rams won 30-25 on September 9th at Rose while Rocky Mount won 66-41 on September 16th at Rose. What does it tell you about either of these teams? If I'm Rocky Mount I'm worried the Rams defense must be good holding Rose to 25. We thought we did a great job holding them to 41. If I'm Havelock I see a Gryphon team that can score.
This is a must see game because I can tell you Havelock respects the Gryphons if for no other reason we carry the state championship banner that Havelock wants back. The Gryphons are not heading like last year to a team already trying on ring sizes because they thought they were a shoo in for the state championship. This last decade Havelock has gotten back to being a football program like they were from the 60's on until they were put in 4A.. They have that walk that all of us see in Carolina and Duke basketball. They are a football program. They walk the walk and talk like champions. Why miss a game like this?
Injury Update: It was not a pleasant site to see a Gryphon lying motionless on the field of play looking as if it was a severe injury and even hauled to a local hospital during anytime in any ones life but especially on a sports field. Good news to report Rajah McGowen passed all the test at the hospital and has been cleared to play again Friday night. Thanks very much for the care he received on the field which helped make sure that Raj didn't have any further injuries.
This is truly what matchups in the playoffs are suppose to be and I will continue to plea for the state to drop one playoff game. Both of these teams finished second in their conference and both won the playoff rematch with the conference champions. If you go to the NCHSAA website ten football conferences are classified as 3-A. There are those that are in split 4A/3A or 3A/2A but only 17 conferences listing 3A. There are a total of 100 schools listed as 3A. 64 make the playoffs. There is no pride in making the playoffs. Let's cut the playoff field back to 32 when you know the top two from each full 3A conference makes it and in some cases only one from a split league get in. Let's drop one game and only invite the best overall record of all others to make a 32 team field.
Neither of these two teams had to worry if they were going to make the playoffs as Havelock comes in 13-1 while Rocky Mount 12-2. The only Ram loss was to West Craven 12-1. Rocky Mount two losses were to Middle Creek 14-0 and Southern Nash 12-1. It is of note the Edenton Aces who the Gryphons beat in Edenton are still alive in the 2A playoffs.
Havelock has scored 573 points in 14 games for a 40.92 points per game average. The Gryphons counter scoring 451 or 32.21. The Rams have rushed for 3087 yards on the season but Friday night only got 96 in the game and still scored 24 points. That 3087 works out to a 220 yards per game rushing. Rocky Mount have hit for 4026 or a 287 yards per game average rushing. The Rams add 192 (2896 yards passing to their repertoire while the Gryphons another 75 1132. Per game Havelock moves the ball on average 412 yards while the Gryphons 368.
The other side of the ball the Rams have been stingy giving up only 151 or 10.78 per game. The Gryphons counter attack on defense with a defense that has given up 251 or 17.92. A guessing man that I am the winner will struggle to get to 20 in this game.
These two have played one like opponent and that is Rose High. The Rams won 30-25 on September 9th at Rose while Rocky Mount won 66-41 on September 16th at Rose. What does it tell you about either of these teams? If I'm Rocky Mount I'm worried the Rams defense must be good holding Rose to 25. We thought we did a great job holding them to 41. If I'm Havelock I see a Gryphon team that can score.
This is a must see game because I can tell you Havelock respects the Gryphons if for no other reason we carry the state championship banner that Havelock wants back. The Gryphons are not heading like last year to a team already trying on ring sizes because they thought they were a shoo in for the state championship. This last decade Havelock has gotten back to being a football program like they were from the 60's on until they were put in 4A.. They have that walk that all of us see in Carolina and Duke basketball. They are a football program. They walk the walk and talk like champions. Why miss a game like this?
Injury Update: It was not a pleasant site to see a Gryphon lying motionless on the field of play looking as if it was a severe injury and even hauled to a local hospital during anytime in any ones life but especially on a sports field. Good news to report Rajah McGowen passed all the test at the hospital and has been cleared to play again Friday night. Thanks very much for the care he received on the field which helped make sure that Raj didn't have any further injuries.
Sunday, December 4, 2016
Collision Course
Last year at this time the Rocky Mount Gryphons were celebrating a second round win over North Johnston. Only a few minutes remained and word came that Morehead had upset previously unbeaten Havelock and the trip to Havelock avoided. At the time what the Gryphons didn't know was they were going to be jumping on a Wildcat in Eden Morehead but were able to get out with their football life still alive to play another day.
This season Havelock lost their regular season matchup with conference foe West Craven so as far as the football world saw was that Havelock was on the back burner much like the Gryphons faced in their regular season loss to Southern Nash. Both West Craven and Southern Nash received all the state wide attention with both schools going undefeated during the regular season.
Both were able to seek revenge from their regular season losses to the conference champions. I guess the Rocky Mount blowout of Southern Guilford at Guilford shines a light a lot brighter on all of us who have complained about this year's seeding process that matches up the top two teams in a conference 12-0 Southern Nash against their arch rival Rocky Mount 10-2 in the second round. After the aftermath of the rout of the Storm there is no doubt that the Southern Nash Rocky Mount game should have been a third round match up. Anyone who attended the Gryphon game Friday night saw that the Firebirds would have advanced as easily as the Gryphons.
There is no upset that can avoid it but Rocky Mount will travel to Havelock Friday night to play the game that should have been played last year. It will be for the Eastern Regional 3-A title. It will be the first time Rocky Mount has played in the Eastern Regional two years in a row since 07/08. Neither of those games were good news for the Gryphons losing at Western Alamance 36-50. If you remember down 44-38 the Gryphons were driving very late when a pick six ended the Gryphon run. A year later ahead 19-14 and running out the clock a fumble near the Eagle 20 yard line gave West Craven time to march down the field and score with only seconds to play to win 22-19
I have complained over the conference play that the Gryphons were playing in cruise control waiting for the other team to wilt under the pressure of playing the defending state champs. I have heard from many in attendance that have told me that they felt Southern Guilford actually looked intimidated in pregame and certainly after a few hits by the Gryphons buckled to the pressure being applied by the now Gryphon team that is not waiting for you to wilt but are playing at a level to make you wilt.
There will be no intimidation in the trip to the town that is all Marine Corp. Funny isn't it but as late as eleven years ago these two were in the same conference with each other and both struggled being the smallest schools in 4A. Now that both are on equal footing with schools their own size they have both had amazing decade of football.
We all around here are prideful of the success of our conference having had someone in our conference to play in the Eastern finals now 2016, 2015 Rocky Mount, 2013 Hunt 3AA, 2012, Hunt 3AA 2010 hunt 3AA, Southern Nash 3AA 2009, Rocky Mount 2008 and Rocky Mount 2007. Very impressive right? Havelock themselves have played in the State championship game 2014, 2011-2013 three time state champions.
There will be no intimidation in this game. This will be a matchup of two of the best programs going in the state of North Carolina. You are crazy if you are not there to see it. Oh, by the way do you see who is out west South Point is still alive.
This season Havelock lost their regular season matchup with conference foe West Craven so as far as the football world saw was that Havelock was on the back burner much like the Gryphons faced in their regular season loss to Southern Nash. Both West Craven and Southern Nash received all the state wide attention with both schools going undefeated during the regular season.
Both were able to seek revenge from their regular season losses to the conference champions. I guess the Rocky Mount blowout of Southern Guilford at Guilford shines a light a lot brighter on all of us who have complained about this year's seeding process that matches up the top two teams in a conference 12-0 Southern Nash against their arch rival Rocky Mount 10-2 in the second round. After the aftermath of the rout of the Storm there is no doubt that the Southern Nash Rocky Mount game should have been a third round match up. Anyone who attended the Gryphon game Friday night saw that the Firebirds would have advanced as easily as the Gryphons.
There is no upset that can avoid it but Rocky Mount will travel to Havelock Friday night to play the game that should have been played last year. It will be for the Eastern Regional 3-A title. It will be the first time Rocky Mount has played in the Eastern Regional two years in a row since 07/08. Neither of those games were good news for the Gryphons losing at Western Alamance 36-50. If you remember down 44-38 the Gryphons were driving very late when a pick six ended the Gryphon run. A year later ahead 19-14 and running out the clock a fumble near the Eagle 20 yard line gave West Craven time to march down the field and score with only seconds to play to win 22-19
I have complained over the conference play that the Gryphons were playing in cruise control waiting for the other team to wilt under the pressure of playing the defending state champs. I have heard from many in attendance that have told me that they felt Southern Guilford actually looked intimidated in pregame and certainly after a few hits by the Gryphons buckled to the pressure being applied by the now Gryphon team that is not waiting for you to wilt but are playing at a level to make you wilt.
There will be no intimidation in the trip to the town that is all Marine Corp. Funny isn't it but as late as eleven years ago these two were in the same conference with each other and both struggled being the smallest schools in 4A. Now that both are on equal footing with schools their own size they have both had amazing decade of football.
We all around here are prideful of the success of our conference having had someone in our conference to play in the Eastern finals now 2016, 2015 Rocky Mount, 2013 Hunt 3AA, 2012, Hunt 3AA 2010 hunt 3AA, Southern Nash 3AA 2009, Rocky Mount 2008 and Rocky Mount 2007. Very impressive right? Havelock themselves have played in the State championship game 2014, 2011-2013 three time state champions.
There will be no intimidation in this game. This will be a matchup of two of the best programs going in the state of North Carolina. You are crazy if you are not there to see it. Oh, by the way do you see who is out west South Point is still alive.
Tyquan Lewis Named Big Ten Lineman Of The Year
What is it about certain areas produce items better than others. North Carolina is the Sweet potato capital of the world. Northern Nash Produces runners who run long distances fast. Rocky Mount has fast runners in short distances. Tarboro High produces very good football players. Already with three players on NFL rosters looks like a fourth is on the way.
Tyquan Lewis a junior defensive end from the Tarboro Vikings was named the Big Ten defensive lineman of the year. What did he do to earn such an award. Had 27 total tackles, 7.5 sacks of the quarterback, 10 of his tackles were for a loss on the play by the runner and he caused three fumbles. Other than that Tyquan had an ordinary year for the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Will he turn pro now a junior next spring when the NFL holds it's next draft? If he decides to turn pro he will join three other Tarboro Vikings living the NFL life in one way or the other. Todd Gurley Running back of the LA Rams the 2015 NFC offensive rookie of the year. Shaun Draughn 5th year backup running back on the San Francisco 49'ers and Takoby Cofield and offensive lineman who right now is on The practice Squad of the Oakland Raiders but is on injured reserve. Have you noticed that all these guys play for California teams. I guess if Lewis goes pro next spring he will get drafted by San Diego.
The sports world has changed over the years how players prepare for competition about as much as cell phones have changed the world of communications. The push-up was a big part of my high school sports life. I don't know how far back weight lifting goes for football but hardly anyone who played basketball or baseball lifted weights in my day.
Tyquan Lewis a junior defensive end from the Tarboro Vikings was named the Big Ten defensive lineman of the year. What did he do to earn such an award. Had 27 total tackles, 7.5 sacks of the quarterback, 10 of his tackles were for a loss on the play by the runner and he caused three fumbles. Other than that Tyquan had an ordinary year for the Ohio State Buckeyes.
Will he turn pro now a junior next spring when the NFL holds it's next draft? If he decides to turn pro he will join three other Tarboro Vikings living the NFL life in one way or the other. Todd Gurley Running back of the LA Rams the 2015 NFC offensive rookie of the year. Shaun Draughn 5th year backup running back on the San Francisco 49'ers and Takoby Cofield and offensive lineman who right now is on The practice Squad of the Oakland Raiders but is on injured reserve. Have you noticed that all these guys play for California teams. I guess if Lewis goes pro next spring he will get drafted by San Diego.
The sports world has changed over the years how players prepare for competition about as much as cell phones have changed the world of communications. The push-up was a big part of my high school sports life. I don't know how far back weight lifting goes for football but hardly anyone who played basketball or baseball lifted weights in my day.
We have all been told weight lifting strengthens muscles but at an alarming rates today's athletes go under the knife for the failure of the body to endure the physical beating taken day in and day out. Thus this past Thursday during the NCHSAA Board of Directors meeting they took steps to protect high school pitchers from sometimes the coach who only has one pitcher and he over works him. More it is protecting the pitcher from himself and family who are looking for the free college ride.
The B of D put pitch counts limits on all pitchers for this coming baseball season. No longer will you hear of a pitcher who pitches 150 pitch complete game. The limit has been put at 105 pitches. Even more impressive is that any pitcher who pitches 105 pitches in one game will have to rest for four days which in essence will create a world of one pitched games per week.
If a pitcher tosses more than 76 pitches he must rest for three days. 61-75 two days rest and 31-45 one day. Any pitcher pitching less than 31 pitches can pitch on consecutive days. As the season goes along teams with the most capable pitching will surely have advantage over those with only average pitching. Scoring should go up from this ruling.
Friday, December 2, 2016
Getting Paranoid
The Rocky Mount Gryphons have gone on the road and for the second year in a row I'm back in Rocky Mount doing basketball at Wesleyan. Once again this year the Gryphons having little trouble without me in the stands coaching pounding the Storm of Southern Guilford 49-20.
The Gryphons kickoff was a pooch kick fumbled by the storm and recovered by the Gryphons at their 20. Charlie Williams takes it in from 8 yards out and three minutes in the game the Gryphons lead 7-0. Late in the first quarter Gryphon wide receiver Rajah McGowen took a hit and laid motionless on the field for several minutes. His father Dominic Henderson reported to me he was taken to the hospital for a possible concussion but he passed all the test and they were waiting to be released from the hospital as I write this at 11pm.
Now numb the Gryphons allow a blocked punt at the 20 and SG scored in several plays and tied the score at 7 with two minutes to go in first quarter. You may have read Last week that Coach Jason Battle said several players would now go both ways to put best possible players on the field. Artavious Richardson the defensive end played tight end tonight and caught a pass fumbled the ball and picked up by DeAngelo Collins to scooted for a touchdown.
The next drive the Storm quarterback breaks free and goes 77 yards but the extra point is missed and it is now 14-13. The kickoff after a penalty the Gryphons start from their own five and they take control of this game. Carrying the ball on his first carry of the night Sherrod Greene goes 68 to up the Gryphon lead to 21-13 and he scored again with a minute left in the half from five yards out to get it to 28-13.
Receiving the second half kickoff the Gryphons ram it down the storm's throat with a 70 yard all running plays capped off by a B J Sanders 1 yard dive that took six minutes off the clock. Southern Guilford had to commit 11 men on the line to stop the Gryphon runners Shabious Lynch found K K Edwards 20 yards in the clear on a 50 yard td toss and the lead is 42-13 with 10 minutes left.
The Clock down to eight minutes Charlie Williams broke free to cap off a 49 point night for the Gryphons. The 2nd team D gave up a td pass on the last play of the game to make the final 49-20
The Eastern Finals will be played in Havelock a 24-7 winner over West Craven. The Gryphons caught a break last year after the Rams lost and the Gryphons avoided a trip to Cherry Point. The state Championship goes through Havelock this year.
Tarboro advances beating East Carteret 13-7. The Vikings stopped the Mariners after they had a first and five late in the game. Their Eastern Finals goes to Wallace Rose Hill.
North Edgecombe wasn't as lucky losing at Plymouth 21-8.
The Gryphons kickoff was a pooch kick fumbled by the storm and recovered by the Gryphons at their 20. Charlie Williams takes it in from 8 yards out and three minutes in the game the Gryphons lead 7-0. Late in the first quarter Gryphon wide receiver Rajah McGowen took a hit and laid motionless on the field for several minutes. His father Dominic Henderson reported to me he was taken to the hospital for a possible concussion but he passed all the test and they were waiting to be released from the hospital as I write this at 11pm.
Now numb the Gryphons allow a blocked punt at the 20 and SG scored in several plays and tied the score at 7 with two minutes to go in first quarter. You may have read Last week that Coach Jason Battle said several players would now go both ways to put best possible players on the field. Artavious Richardson the defensive end played tight end tonight and caught a pass fumbled the ball and picked up by DeAngelo Collins to scooted for a touchdown.
The next drive the Storm quarterback breaks free and goes 77 yards but the extra point is missed and it is now 14-13. The kickoff after a penalty the Gryphons start from their own five and they take control of this game. Carrying the ball on his first carry of the night Sherrod Greene goes 68 to up the Gryphon lead to 21-13 and he scored again with a minute left in the half from five yards out to get it to 28-13.
Receiving the second half kickoff the Gryphons ram it down the storm's throat with a 70 yard all running plays capped off by a B J Sanders 1 yard dive that took six minutes off the clock. Southern Guilford had to commit 11 men on the line to stop the Gryphon runners Shabious Lynch found K K Edwards 20 yards in the clear on a 50 yard td toss and the lead is 42-13 with 10 minutes left.
The Clock down to eight minutes Charlie Williams broke free to cap off a 49 point night for the Gryphons. The 2nd team D gave up a td pass on the last play of the game to make the final 49-20
The Eastern Finals will be played in Havelock a 24-7 winner over West Craven. The Gryphons caught a break last year after the Rams lost and the Gryphons avoided a trip to Cherry Point. The state Championship goes through Havelock this year.
Tarboro advances beating East Carteret 13-7. The Vikings stopped the Mariners after they had a first and five late in the game. Their Eastern Finals goes to Wallace Rose Hill.
North Edgecombe wasn't as lucky losing at Plymouth 21-8.
Roger Taylor Invitational Tonight
High school football playoffs have been the main focus for nearly three weeks now and very little attention has been made to high school or Wesleyan Basketball. Tonight and Saturday afternoon the Battling Bishops of North Carolina Wesleyan will host the Roger Taylor Invitational named after former Wesleyan basketball star and Rocky Mount Business man Roger Taylor and a great supporter of NC Wesleyan Sports..
The tip off tonight at 6pm will feature Shenandoah University 4-1 facing Greensboro Pride 2-1. The Battling Bishops will host Bob Jones University 2-7 in the night cap. The Bishops 3-3 will then flip flop on Saturday afternoon at 3pm and take on Shenandoah while the 1pm game will be Bob Jones and Greensboro.
The Bishops squad this season does not have a senior on the team and only two juniors. There is no true point guard but Adrian Moore from Plymouth a true small forward/ shooting guard has taken the role and leads the team in scoring.
If four men's basketball games is not enough on Friday and Saturday afternoon you can catch the Lady Bishops 4-2 at 7:30 Saturday night hosting Lynchburg. The Lady Bishops are led by a trio of scorers in Alexis Fitzgerald 13.7, Keshae Parker 12.9 and former Nash Central player Timyra Staton 12.7.
No longer do we have college football games but there is the championship game in the ACC in Orlando. You know the game was suppose to be in Charlotte but moved. I personally hope only 20,000 show up and the ACC loses it's butt by moving the game but they could not have any better traveling teams than Virginia Tech and Clemson.
This is a truly a great matchup. I am not sure Clemson is a top four team and deserve to be in final four. A victory over Tech will not hurt their rating but a loss kicks them into a bowl game. The Tigers will not push Tech around. It would not shock me if Tech wins. Where would Clemson go then in Bowl Games?
Just not sure Tech can stop the Tigers enough or even score enough. Clemson wins the ACC 33 Virginia Tech 23.
The tip off tonight at 6pm will feature Shenandoah University 4-1 facing Greensboro Pride 2-1. The Battling Bishops will host Bob Jones University 2-7 in the night cap. The Bishops 3-3 will then flip flop on Saturday afternoon at 3pm and take on Shenandoah while the 1pm game will be Bob Jones and Greensboro.
The Bishops squad this season does not have a senior on the team and only two juniors. There is no true point guard but Adrian Moore from Plymouth a true small forward/ shooting guard has taken the role and leads the team in scoring.
If four men's basketball games is not enough on Friday and Saturday afternoon you can catch the Lady Bishops 4-2 at 7:30 Saturday night hosting Lynchburg. The Lady Bishops are led by a trio of scorers in Alexis Fitzgerald 13.7, Keshae Parker 12.9 and former Nash Central player Timyra Staton 12.7.
No longer do we have college football games but there is the championship game in the ACC in Orlando. You know the game was suppose to be in Charlotte but moved. I personally hope only 20,000 show up and the ACC loses it's butt by moving the game but they could not have any better traveling teams than Virginia Tech and Clemson.
This is a truly a great matchup. I am not sure Clemson is a top four team and deserve to be in final four. A victory over Tech will not hurt their rating but a loss kicks them into a bowl game. The Tigers will not push Tech around. It would not shock me if Tech wins. Where would Clemson go then in Bowl Games?
Just not sure Tech can stop the Tigers enough or even score enough. Clemson wins the ACC 33 Virginia Tech 23.
Thursday, December 1, 2016
Third Round Twin County Playoffs
One of the biggest problems coming from Hurricane Matthew and having to delay the state championships one week was securing the legal rights the following week to the stadiums.. The paper work has now been secured and if Rocky Mount can win two more playoff games they would play at 11:05 am on Saturday December 17th at BB&T Stadium in Winston Salem in the 3A championship game.
Two more Vikings victories by Tarboro and they play on Friday night December 16th at 7:30 in Kenan Stadium in Chapel Hill for the 1AA title. If North Edgecombe is still alive they play in Chapel Hill at 11:05 Saturday the 17th for the 1-A crown.
Week three of the state football playoffs moves into December and North Edgecombe, Tarboro and Rocky Mount still remain in the state playoffs. Got all three games right last week and after two weeks of playoff picks stand 9-1 and 80-26 on the season. If all three of our locals lose then it will be time to concentrate on basketball. Will this be the last week?
Two more Vikings victories by Tarboro and they play on Friday night December 16th at 7:30 in Kenan Stadium in Chapel Hill for the 1AA title. If North Edgecombe is still alive they play in Chapel Hill at 11:05 Saturday the 17th for the 1-A crown.
Week three of the state football playoffs moves into December and North Edgecombe, Tarboro and Rocky Mount still remain in the state playoffs. Got all three games right last week and after two weeks of playoff picks stand 9-1 and 80-26 on the season. If all three of our locals lose then it will be time to concentrate on basketball. Will this be the last week?
North Edgecombe 11-1 @ Plymouth 10-3: Recent history the Vikings had had great success in basketball and football on the state wide stage. The Vikings have scored 468 points while the Warriors 469 but the Warriors have played one less game. Plymouth is averaging 36 while North Edgecombe 39.
Plymouth has held their 13 game opponents to 17 points per game. The boys of Leggett are holding their foes to 15. They have played two common games Riverside from Williamston Plymouth lost 27-47 while North Edgecombe won 74-56. Columbia played both losing 52-0 to Plymouth and 44-0 to the Warriors.
We have reached the point in every game that there will be no clear favorite but home field can be the most advantadious factor. I do like that in the two common games that North Edgecombe has a slight advantage. I have every reason to pick the Warriors but I think Plymouth at home is big in this one Plymouth 36 North Edgecombe 32
Tarboro 11-2 @ East Carteret 12-1: The Mariners are winners of 11 in a row while Tarboro 8. East Carteret is rushing for 202 yards per game while the Vikings 302. The Mariners are sending it through the air for 199 yards per game while the Vikings you might as well say they don't pass getting just 23 per game. Every time the Mariners run they get 9.5 yards while the Vikings 9.4
The Mariners have completed 70% of their passes and get 9.8 per every pass attempt. So that means on every play the Mariners get 9.6 yards every time they touch it. Plymouth scores 47 per game while the Vikings have held they 13 games to just a tad over 6 points per game. The Vikings average nearly 40 while the Mariners give up 10. A big question in this game have the Vikings seen any body pass the way the Mariners do?
If you go by stats this game falls to the home team East Carteret with their offensive numbers. I do however have to think back where did those two losses come from that the Vikings suffered. They lost to Northern Nash on a Monday and Southern Nash on Friday. I see nobody on the schedule that matches up well for East Carteret as those two.. Tarboro 26 East Carteret 22
Rocky Mount 11-2 @ Southern Guilford 11-2: We have already talked earlier in the week about this match up and there is every indication this could be a great game. The storm has lost to Eastern Guilford 3A 13-0 still while one of the Gryphon losses was to 4A Middle Creek 13-0. The Storm second loss was to 3A SE Guilford 7-5 while the second Gryphon failure occurred to Southern Nash 12-1.
I think this game comes down to the turnovers. If Rocky Mount is the team that puts it on the ground twice and lose both that is potential points that will never be given a chance to get back and that will be hard to catch up. Have the Storm been hit like they are going to be hit in this one and do they put the ball on the ground? Can the Storm match the Gryphon team speed? 2014 they could.
I think the Gryphons live to play another week Rocky Mount 24 South Guilford 21
I think this game comes down to the turnovers. If Rocky Mount is the team that puts it on the ground twice and lose both that is potential points that will never be given a chance to get back and that will be hard to catch up. Have the Storm been hit like they are going to be hit in this one and do they put the ball on the ground? Can the Storm match the Gryphon team speed? 2014 they could.
I think the Gryphons live to play another week Rocky Mount 24 South Guilford 21
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