CHOCOWINITY — Southside’s “next man up” mantra holds extra meaning this week. The Seahawks prepare to host championship-favorite Tarboro for their 1-A Coastal Plains Conference opener, but will be without key skill players. Brandon Sullivan is recovering from a concussion and will be a game-time decision. Amari Peele and Jamison Bennett both left Friday’s game against North Duplin with injuries and are likely out, too.

There remains a cast of capable running backs that have proven their ability to carry the ball. Quarterback Will Warren also has receivers Demetrius Ebron and Cody Modlin, as well as tight end Hunter Tyler to throw the ball to.

The Seahawks need consistent work from their offensive line to be able to effectively plug in players. No lineman has been more reliable than Teddy Minor.

“With the depth in the backfield … we have guys there, but when someone gets hurt on the offensive line, it’s maybe a little bit different,” coach Jeff Carrow said. “Next man up. It’s still the same philosophy. They’re going to step up and fill in, but sometimes it’s a little more difficult to replace a lineman than a skill guy.”

Inserting new players in the backfield does change Minor’s approach a bit.

“We’ve got to block a little different. It depends on the running back how we block,” Minor said. “I believe we’ll still be able to go hard. We still have a lot of depth with running backs and skill players.”

Trajan Rhome is a player expected to receive more touches given the injuries. He and Minor have been playing together since middle school, so they have well-established chemistry.

Even with his blocking skill, Minor’s best trait is arguably his leadership. Carrow lauded the way the 222-pound senior became a more vocal presence in the locker room. Rallying the troops is especially important when they’re wounded heading into battle against one of the most dangerous 1-A teams in the state.

“He is our vocal guy,” Carrow said. “That’s without a doubt. Quinton Vick has also stepped up as far as being a vocal guy. Teddy is definitely the heart of the team as far as vocal leadership. Guys respond to him. He’s the hype guy. He helps being vocal on the offensive line, as well. Him and Aidan Kelley.”

Minor’s energy is palpable. His excitement is hard to miss when a play is made. He’s also an encouraging voice when things aren’t going well.

Minor and the Seahawk linemen are going to have their work cut out. The Vikings will bring with them a formidable group up front. Size, strength and athleticism are qualities they have in spades.

“He’ll use what he’s got in the weight room. He’s a really good lifter. He does well,” Carrow said. “He’s stepped into a leadership role this year as far as line calls. We expect him to be the same every week. He needs to be our best lineman.”

Minor added, “I think it’s going to be a good game. We’re going to show up prepared and ready to go. I just hope we pull out a win.”

Southside and Tarboro kick off 7 p.m. Friday in Chocowinity.

“There are going to be some pads clapping,” Minor said.