By Thomas Grant Jr.
Dutch Fork head coach Tom Knotts doesn’t forget.
Friday’s road trip to White Knoll (5-1, 1-0) is more than just another region matchup — it’s a return to the site of Dutch Fork’s last Region 4-5A loss, a 17-14 setback on Oct. 6, 2023.
Even after back-to-back wins over the Timberwolves since then, including one in the Class 5A state title game, Knotts hasn’t let that loss go.
“We’re going to do everything we can,” Knotts said. “We jumped offsides. We botched a fake punt call. We had a number of issues in that game, and all of that attributed to the head coach. I take full responsibility. I tried to do too much, but we’re going over there to avenge a loss.”
The third-ranked Silver Foxes (4-1, 1-0) had reeled off 24 straight victories after that defeat before falling 24-20 to Oceanside Collegiate Academy on Sept. 19.
Following a bye week, Dutch Fork bounced back with a 50-0 home shutout of Chapin — the team’s 15th straight home win and 13th consecutive victory over the Eagles. It also marked Dutch Fork’s 27th shutout since 2016 and ninth straight region win since the loss to White Knoll.
Running back Quintin Wilson led the way with 176 yards and three touchdowns, while quarterback Jaxon Knotts went 10-for-15 for 178 yards and three scores. The defense was dominant, holding Chapin to just 78 total yards.
“Coming off a loss is always tough,” Knotts said. “Fortunately, we had a bye week. We got a few things corrected and sharpened up. I was pleased with how we played.”
Knotts said he’s still looking for more consistency and fewer “bonehead” or “Pop Warner” mistakes, particularly early in games.
One area of focus is the running game after losing Cole Martin, a Chapin transfer, to a season-ending injury. Dutch Fork now relies on a three-headed attack of Wilson, Brayden Johnson, and Sheldon Shine.
“I’ve got a ton of confidence in these three guys,” Knotts said. “They’re all a little different, all pretty fast. We just need someone to be dynamic once they hit the second or third level — that’s what we’ve been missing.”
Defensively, the Silver Foxes are making adjustments in the secondary and at linebacker. Shrine Bowl selection Raleigh Salters, recovering from a high ankle sprain, will move to the SAM position, while senior Jackson Stengel has stepped in at middle linebacker.
“Jackson has really stepped up,” Knotts said. “And once Raleigh’s back to full speed, I expect him to have a big second half of the season.”
RPI Ratings (Class 5A – Division I)
- Dorman (5-1) – 0.71917
- Dutch Fork (4-1) – 0.70019
- Ridge View (4-2) – 0.64486
- Byrnes (4-2) – 0.62909
- Rock Hill (4-3) – 0.58769
- Clover (4-3) – 0.56507
- Spartanburg (3-3) – 0.53069
- Boiling Springs (3-3) – 0.50798
- Mauldin (2-4) – 0.47333
- Blythewood (3-4) – 0.46347
- Spring Valley (2-5) – 0.40122
- JL Mann (1-5) – 0.39972
- Wade Hampton (0-6) – 0.26319
