By Thomas Grant Jr.
On one side, Dutch Fork has had over two weeks to simmer over its first loss in two years.
About eight miles away, rival Irmo has had the time to get accustomed to its number-one ranking in Class 5A.
On Friday, both teams return to action at home to open Region 4-5A play.
The third-ranked Silver Foxes (3-1) play host to Chapin in an all-Lexington/Richland School District Five matchup. Dutch Fork own a 12-0 all-time record against the Eagles, who are also seeking their first win of the season.
The Silver Foxes were defeated 24-20 by Oceanside Collegiate Academy in their last outing on Sept. 19. It was the first overall loss and road loss since October 2023 to White Knoll.
This game features four players selected to All-Star games in December. Wide receiver Stone Furrey, who transferred from Chapin last summer, and Chapin offensive lineman Caden Muskus were selected to participate at the Touchstone Energy Bowl.
The game takes place Dec. 13 at Doug Shaw Stadium in Myrtle Beach.
Dutch Fork All-State defensive end Julian Walker and linebacker Raleigh Salters were selected to the 2025 South Carolina Sandlappers. They will play in the annual Shrine Bowl set for Dec. 20 at Spartanburg High School.
Over at W.C. Hawkins Stadium, the Battle of the Dam resumes between longtime rivals Lexington and top-ranked Irmo. The Yellow Jackets (5-0) snapped a 6-game losing streak in the series last year with a 34-8 win at home.
In Irmo’s last outing, it rolled past Myrtle Beach 59-21. Quarterback Drevon Dopson threw for a career-high 420 yards and four touchdowns and Amire White rushed for 146 yards and a score.
Blocking upfront for the Yellow Jackets were Bryson Moore and Vernen Hairens. Both were selected to the Touchstone Energy Bowl set for Dec. 13 at Doug Shaw Stadium in Myrtle Beach.
Lexington is coming off a 40-0 win over Laurens. Freshman quarterback Easton Crocker threw for 162 yards and a touchdown.
S.C. PREP FOOTBALL MEDIA POLL
Class 5A
1. Irmo (15) (5-0), 2. Northwestern (3) (5-1), 3. Dutch Fork (3-1), 4. Summerville (4-1), 5. James Island (5-0), 6. Dorman (4-1), 7. Greenwood (4-1), 8. Ridge View (3-2), 9. Byrnes (3-2), 10. Gaffney (3-2)
Others receiving votes: White Knoll, TL Hanna, Sumter, Indian Land, Greenville, Stratford
