WASHINGTON (2-3, 0-1 2A EASTERN CAROLINA CONFERENCE) AT AYDEN-GRIFTON (3-2, 0-0 2A ECC)

LAST TIME OUT ON THE FIELD

The Pam Pack returned to the field after Hurricane Florence by opening conference play with a showdown at home against Greene Central on Sept. 21. Washington could not stop the Rams’ rushing attack on the night, allowing 360 yards for an average of 7.2 yards per carry. Greene Central senior A.J. Dupree almost singlehandedly got the job done, running for 215 yards and four touchdowns on 22 carries, while also making a 25-yard reception. A positive on an otherwise rough night for the Pam Pack was the fact it didn’t give up, forcing a turnover late in the game.

THREE THINGS TO LOOK FOR

1. How will all the time off affect Washington? Tonight’s game will be just the second game for the Pam Pack since it defeated Northside four weeks ago, having had last week off after playing Greene Central. The time away from competitive games can have either positive or negative effects for Washington. The additional time to spend practicing, going over film and working on weaknesses can prove to be a boon for a team whose record sits under .500. Or the lack of live game action could lead to rust and the Washington players could lose the sharpness that comes with playing actual games.

 

2. Can the Pam Pack limit the impact of Ayden-Grifton’s Michael Webb? The junior running back/receiver/defensive back opened the season putting on a show against Southside. Webb affected the matchup in nearly every phase of the game, finishing with a rushing touchdown, a receiving touchdown, a fumble recovery and a touchdown-saving interception at the goal line. Webb has continued that success, registering a touchdown or turnover in every game this season, including an 87-yard kick return touchdown against North Duplin.

 

3. Which Washington will we see tonight? The Pam Pack has experienced both extreme highs and lows this season. The wins have been in commanding fashion, blowing out East Carteret, 46-6, to open the year, and dominating Northside to the tune of 44-0. But the losses to Tarboro (48-0) and Greene Central (28-0) saw Washington being the one getting trounced. Washington needs to show more consistency week to week if it hopes to meet its goal of winning the conference.