Washington head coach Jon Blank was hoping Ka’ci Foreman would be an offensive weapon this season. He was a standout for the junior-varsity squad as a sophomore.

But his success didn’t immediately translate to the varsity level. It was trial by fire for Foreman and the Pam Pack as they began the season with what Blank described as “murder’s row.” Tarboro and Conley, among others, posed stiff challenges.

It took time for Foreman to get comfortable at the varsity level.

“It was my birthday, so I had to settle in and get everything good,” Foreman remembered of his Aug. 18 varsity debut at East Carteret. “Everybody said varsity was going to be different and faster. I had to change, get to it, settle in. Now I’m settled in, and I’m having a great season.”

Foreman had one touchdown going into Friday’s 2-A Eastern Carolina Conference meeting with North Lenoir. The elusive junior erupted for 177 yards rushing and two touchdowns. He feels like he got comfortable after the season opener and is now playing to his potential.

“I just had to stay focused, keep going and keep grinding,” Foreman said. “… I wish I could play those teams (East Carteret, Tarboro and Conley) again.”

Another overwhelming outing from Hykeem Ruffin, who amassed 329 yards and four touchdowns on the ground, complemented Foreman’s performance. Ruffin has been as consistent as he’s been explosive this season.

Having two effective running backs adds onto Washington’s offense — which, coincidently, is also getting into a rhythm. Ruffin brings more power out of the backfield while Foreman boasts a bit more finesse to the way he runs with the ball.

“We’ve got the same fourth period. We see each other every day,” Foreman said of his chemistry with Ruffin. “We’re always keeping each other focused.”

Their abilities are compounded by a rotation that keeps them fresh, which offensive coordinator Perry Owens seems to have found.

Foreman and the Pam Pack offense appear to have finally found a groove, as the 45-point output would indicate. It was bound to take time as the new-look coaching staff changed the team’s offensive approach this year. Putting it all together this past week couldn’t have happened at a better time as Washington hopes to make a push for the playoffs.

“Washington is going to get known for Washington doing what Washington does. We’re getting to that point now, especially with the way we’re running the option,” Blank said. “… What you saw (Friday) was a culmination of all the kids understanding what they’re doing. We have not run a triple option in like 20 years.”

Foreman and friends hope to pick up where they left off when they host Ayden-Grifton for Homecoming on Friday. A win is necessary to climb another rung in the conference.