By Thomas Grant Jr.
Friday’s matchup between third-ranked Irmo (5-0) and Richland Northeast (2-2) is not just the Region 5-4A opener for both teams.
It can also be called Fathers vs. Sons. Each team is led by head coaches whose sons play quarterback.
On the home team side is the Yellow Jackets with head coach Aaron Brand and quarterback A.J. Brand. He’s coming off a six-touchdown performance in the 54-0 victory over Airport and has yet to throw an interception this season.
The visiting Cavaliers are led by head coach Walt Wilson and quarterback Will Wilson. The North Carolina State commit accounted for three touchdowns in the 41-38 win over Nation Ford.
Both teams have a solid supporting cast with running back Jaden Allen-Hendrix, wide receiver Donovan Murph, offensive linemen Bryant Ham and defensive back Isaiah McClary for Irmo and running back James Willingham IV, wide receiver Enosh Jean-Phillippe Jr., offensive lineman Mark’Quelle Moser and defensive back Jarell Turner for Richland Northeast.
The Cavaliers rallied to defeat the Yellow Jackets 20-14 in last year’s matchup. Irmo leads the all-time series 11-3.
S.C. Prep Football Class 4A Media Poll
1. South Florence (19) (5-0)
2. Northwestern (4) (4-1)
3. Irmo (5-0)
4. James Island (5-0)
5. Hartsville (4-1)
6. South Pointe (3-2)
7. Westside (4-1)
8. Midland Valley (6-0)
9. Greenville (3-2)
10. Lucy Beckham (4-0)
Others receiving votes: Ridge View, York, Myrtle Beach, North Augusta, Indian Land, West Florence
