By: Chris Long and Joel Bryant

Introduction

7 days ago, no one knew what to make of this year’s Husky Football team. Were they going to struggle to adjust to a new coaching staff and replace the multitude of seniors who graduated? Or would they thrive behind the bevy of young talent that has been waiting for it’s time to shine? After the Huskies’ 24-10 “upset” over Green Hope, we appear to be getting closer to the answer.

Last week’s win opened some eyes in the media, but experts are understandably far from sold on this team. While the rest of Heritage’s non-conference schedule doesn’t feature any programs on the level of Green Hope, the Huskies will be able to continue to prove themselves. Winning the games that you’re supposed to win goes a long way in being taken seriously as one of the better teams in the area. That starts with Rolesville.

About Rolesville

Rolesville is a new school looking to become more competitive athletically in the Greater Neuse River Conference. Most Rams teams struggled in their first year playing varsity sports against the very strong GNRC teams last year. However, the football team was one of the first Rolesville varsity teams to record a win when the Rams beat Knightdale 14-7 in week 11 of last season.

The Rams are entering tomorrow’s game following a stinging 55-0 defeat to Terry Sanford. However, that score may not reflect the level of talent on the roster. For instance, the Rams have one of the best receivers in the Triangle in Colby Cooper, who happened to have a nice game against Heritage last year.

History vs. Rolesville

Heritage is 1-0 against Rolesville, thanks to the 39-0 rout from last season.

Discussion

The following is the discussion segment, where Joel and Chris will debate key aspects of tomorrow’s game.

Biggest Question

Chris: Will Huskies show up in the second half? Last week the only reason that Heritage won was because of their 21-0 first half domination. The Husky offense stalled in the second half and only score a field goal. Many questioned the play calling in the second half siting that Heritage was not using the same player combinations that worked so well in the first half. If Heritage can keep their first half momentum going into the second half they will be in great shape.

Joel: Can the defense deliver a repeat performance? Last week against Green Hope, the Huskies held the Falcons to just 10 points and only allowed 3 significant drives. They did a good job of shutting down NC State commit Bryce Dixon and will face a similar challenge this week with wide receiver Colby Cooper.

Players To Watch

C: Drake Thomas. Drake had a huge game in his Heritage High School debut. He finished with 6 tackles, 2 quarterback hurries, and a blocked kick. If he can have another big game against Rolesville, the Ram’s offense will struggle in the pass and run game.

J: Gunnar Holmberg. The sophomore performed extremely well in week one, throwing for 179 yards and 3 touchdowns. He’ll have a chance to produce equal, if not better, numbers against the Rams.

Prediction

(Minus Scores)

C: WIN

J:  WIN

Game Information

Location: Rolesville High School

Kickoff:  7:00

Cost: $7

Attire: Black