2025 6A East Contenders

As the 2025 high school football season approaches in North Carolina, NCPreps is setting its sights on the 6A East.This region features perennial powerhouses and emerging threats alike. With key departures and high-impact returners, these three programs look primed to battle for supremacy come December’s state playoffs.

SEVENTY-FIRST
The Falcons went 15–1 in 2024 despite losing their starting quarterback. They still boast a bruising ground game, led by juniors Jayson Franklin and Shon Pone, who combined for 2,000 rushing yards and 23 touchdowns. Defensively, senior linebacker Xaiveon Gear anchors the unit with 104 tackles, 24 tackles for loss, seven sacks, three interceptions, five forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries. Sophomore defensive tackle John Archer (6’5″, 325) also makes noise with 84 tackles, 31 TFLs and five sacks. Even without their QB, Seventy-First’s physical style and disruptive front make them a top threat in 6A East.

NORTHERN NASH
The Knights finished 10–1 in 2024 but must replace both their starting quarterback and lead back. Ready to shoulder the load is junior running back Myles Eatmon, fresh off a 1,139-yard, 15-TD season on only 126 carries. Rising junior wideout Kamren Freeman (6’5″) provides a big-play element, having hauled in 20 catches for 425 yards and five scores. With those two dynamic playmakers, Northern Nash has the talent to sustain its win-now culture.

TERRY SANFORD
The Bulldogs went 9–3 and return senior quarterback Jacob Moore, who passed for 1,600 yards, 20 touchdowns and just six interceptions, while rushing for 993 yards and 14 scores. Moore’s backfield partner, Isaiah Washington, churned out 770 yards and ten TDs on 102 carries. All three of last year’s top receivers return—led by Christian Carter, who owns 59 career catches for 1,051 yards and 11 touchdowns. Junior pass-rusher Justice Clifton (11 sacks) headlines a defense ready to reload.

TREY’S TAKE:
“I love what these three programs have built in 6A East. Seventy-First remains my favorite—they own the trenches—but I’m eager to see how they adapt after major departures. Northern Nash’s youngsters must step into leadership roles for a playoff run. Ultimately, I’m betting on Jacob Moore and Terry Sanford: that dual-threat QB, a stacked receiving corps and a fierce pass rush give them the edge in a loaded field.”

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