The Ragland Purple Devils are taking a road trip to square off against the Fayetteville Wolves at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. Ragland has given up an average of 36.2 points per game this season, but Friday's game will give them a chance to turn things around.
Ragland blew Woodville out of the water the last time the pair played, but on Friday Woodville got their revenge. The Purple Devils fell just short of the Panthers by a score of 37-34. The Purple Devils' loss continues a trend for the squad, making it three in a row.
Despite the defeat, Ragland had strong showings from A'Ron Lee, who rushed for 180 yards and four scores on only 12 carries, and Kobe Embry, who gained 170 total yards and a touchdown. The bulk of those receiving yards came from one huge play: a catch that gained an incredible 76 yards.
Meanwhile, in Friday's Canine Competition, Fayetteville had to take the L. They fell 28-21 to Winterboro two weeks ago. The loss continues a trend for the Wolves in their meetings with the Bulldogs: they've now lost five in a row.
Ragland will have to keep a close watch on Cameron Hammonds and Presley Duke, a pair of players who had a big impact on Fayetteville's prior game. Hammonds rushed for 103 yards and one TD on only ten carries, while Duke rushed for 108 yards and one touchdown on only 13 carries. Hammonds also deserves a shoutout for his performance on D, picking up a sack, forcing one fumble, and making four total tackles.
Fayetteville didn't go easy on the quarterback and picked off two passes before the game was over. The picks came courtesy of Carter Goins and Brennon Marlin.
Ragland's record now sits at 1-3. As for Fayetteville, their record is now 2-2.
Friday's matchup might be decided on the ground. Ragland has been excellent on the ground this season, having averaged 154.8 rushing yards per game. However, it's not like Fayetteville struggles in that department as they've been averaging 222.5 rushing yards. There's a good chance Friday's contest turns into a tough fight on the ground.
Everything came up roses for Ragland against Fayetteville in their previous matchup back in September of 2024, as the team secured a 35-0 victory. The rematch might be a little tougher for the Purple Devils since the squad won't have the home-field advantage this time around. We'll see if the change in venue makes a difference.
