Max Meadows…The Fort Chiswell Pioneers coming off one of their worst losses, at Narrows 53-20, will journey to Grayson Co. Friday night. The Pioneers 0-7 have had problems running the football. Then at Narrows ran the ball but defensively couldn’t stop the Green Wave. That’s how their season has gone so far. If its not one thing, then its another. They have had more injuries this season than all of the last six years combined. It makes for very inconsistent play on both sides of the ball. This Friday the Pioneers are down to third string quarterback and possibly using tight end Colby Rider in the “wildcat” formation. They will have approximately eight kids out due to injuries.

The Grayson Co. Blue Devils will come into the contest at 4-3. They are coming off of a loss to Bland Co. 26-18. Grayson also lost to Graham 57-14 and Glenvar 21-0. Their victories have been over Tazewell 26-13, 35-14 over Floyd Co, 41-14 at Alleghany (NC) and defeated Carroll Co. 34-7.

Quarterback Tyler Lundy will lead Grayson. He is a southpaw thrower. He’s a 6-1 senior and a very good athlete. His main targets will be Tanner McPherson, Seth Phillips and Tony Osborne. Carrying the football will Isaac Flippin and Jordan Bailey will be the “H” back.

Pioneer head coach Todd Tiller remarked, ” Grayson Co. likes to throw the football. They will show different formations. They like the one back look, trips and will spread as well. Coach Tiller then added,” Defensively Grayson will show what I call an even defense or a 4-4. They will also run a 5-3 look. When they play even their linebacker on the weak side will walk up to the line of scrimmage.” Coach Brett McPherson is in his 10th year at the helm of the Blue Devils. His record is 54-51. They return five starters on offense and five on defense. Other players to watch will be center Reece Wilson, tackle Jared Phillips, and guard Jeremiah Bost. Defensively watch for linebackers Chance Widner and Adam Carrico. The secondary of Brandon Paschall, McPherson and Lundy are quick and talented. Jesse Hawkins a 280 lb. senior anchors the defensive line.

Kickoff is slated for Friday 7 pm in Independence.