Football Game Preview: Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy Gryphons vs. Winston-Salem Preparatory Academy Phoenix

The Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy Gryphons will welcome the Winston-Salem Preparatory Academy Phoenix at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Both come into the matchup bolstered by wins in their previous matches.

Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy is headed into the game after thoroughly thrashing Bonnie Cone Leadership Academy: they outscored them in every quarter. Given that consistent dominance, it should come as no surprise that the Gryphons blew the Eagles out of the water with a 48-12 final score. The win was some much needed relief for the Gryphons as it spelled an end to their five-game losing streak.

Eli Lineberger

Interceptions

09/19/25 @ Albemarle	2
10/31/25 vs Bonnie Cone Leadership Academy	1
09/12/25 vs Cabarrus S	1
08/29/25 vs Greenville H	1

Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy didn't go easy on the quarterback and picked off two passes before the game was over. The picks came courtesy of Kenyon 'Bokey' Surratt and Eli Lineberger. Lineberger has become a key player for Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy: the team is 3-1 when he posts at least one interception, but 1-5 otherwise.

Meanwhile, it's playoff time, and Winston-Salem Preparatory Academy had no trouble coming through when it counted. They took down Chatham Central 30-12 on Friday. The Phoenix's offense stepped up their game for this one, as that was the most points they've scored all season.

Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy better keep an eye on Jamari Wilson. He was instrumental in Winston-Salem Preparatory Academy's win, rushing for 175 yards and three TDs while picking up 8.8 yards per carry, and also throwing for 130 yards and one touchdown. Wilson also put in work on the defensive side of the ball, making three total tackles and defending one pass. Tim Smith was another key player, picking up 100 receiving yards and one score.

Winston-Salem Preparatory Academy was unstoppable on the ground and finished the game with 290 rushing yards. They are a perfect 3-0 when they've run for more than 200 yards.

Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy's record is now 4-6. As for Winston-Salem Preparatory Academy, their record now sits at 3-8.