Football Recap: Hickory Ridge Falls to Providence in First Game of Season + How To Watch

Hickory Ridge had to start their season on the road on Friday, and it wasn't the start they were hoping for. They were outmatched by the Providence Panthers and fell 35-0. Sadly, the loss continues a streak the team started last season, making it 11 in a row.

Even if they lost, Hickory Ridge's defensive line still kept up the pressure with three sacks. The team can thank two different players for their defensive prowess: Schawn Connor and Brayten Smith, who each picked up 0.5 sacks apiece.

Leading Providence to victory were Jackson Debe and Kaleb Vines. Debe threw for 148 yards and two touchdowns on only 12 passes, while Vines gained 148 total yards and two touchdowns. The dominant performance also gave Debe a new career-high in rushing yards (55).

Both teams will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Hickory Ridge will get a bit of extra time to process the defeat as their next game is a ways off. They'll take on South Iredell at 7:00 p.m. on September 5. As for Providence, they are headed away from home for the first time to take on East Lincoln at 7:30 p.m. on Friday.