Ole Ball Coach Pick: East Duplin at James Kenan

Written by: Delmus Willis

East Duplin at James Kenan is one of Duplin County’s classic rivalries, and Friday night will be no different. The Panthers come in 3-0 behind a powerful run game and a defense that doesn’t budge. James Kenan, meanwhile, is looking to bounce back after a two-point loss to Southern Nash last week.

This matchup needs no hype — records don’t matter when these two meet. The concern for East Duplin is facing an angry James Kenan team fresh off a stinging defeat. The concern for James Kenan is whether they can shake off the emotional weight of last week’s loss.

I expect James Kenan to start slow, and that will be the difference late. Give me East Duplin to win on the road.

Watch out for:
James Kenan
Senior RB #3 Jeremiah Hall 22 rushes 305 yards 4 TDs

East Duplin
Senior RBs #3 Aaron Hall & #9 Shawn Davis
Combined stats of: 543 rushing yards 6 TDs in 3 Games.

FACTS
East Duplin has won 7 of the last 9 games vs JK.
James Kenan won last season 43-20.
East Duplin run/pass ratio 80/20
James Kenan run/pass ratio 83/17
East Duplin is #1 in the state in 4A RPI.
James Kenan is #20 in the state and #11 in the 3A East.

#oleballcoach #fridaynightlights #ENCFOOTBALL