Marty Gordon
The recent uptick in threats to schools in southwest Virginia is affecting not only the classroom but also the grid iron. Two area games were postponed last week after social media posts alluded to threats.
In addition, several schools, like Radford, are taking extra efforts for the night of those home football games. While there has been no indication the measures are because of any past or future threats, there are some major changes.
As of this past week, any student under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the game. Students without adult supervision will not be allowed admission to the game.
In addition, the school system has outlawed certain items like footballs, skateboards, scooters at the game.
The announcement about the measures also said loitering in areas such of the concession stand, visitor’s side, ticket-taking areas or behind the press box will not be allowed.
Administration and law enforcement will be present at all home games and will be asking those who might be loitering to either sit in the stands or leave the premises.
On the field this past week, Radford was the only area school to pick up a win. Christiansburg fell to William Byrd. Eastern Montgomery lost to Northwood, and Blacksburg was on the wrong end to Floyd.
Player of game from this past week:
Pace Prioleau was the defensive leader for Radford in the 35-14 win over Virginia. For his effort, he gives the defense the Player of the Week honors. He finished with 10 tackles for his third straight game tallying double tackles.
Area top five:
- Glenvar
- William Byrd
- Northside
- Radford
- Salem
Friday night games:
Blacksburg (1-2) at Rockbridge (0-3)
This could be an interesting matchup with Rockbridge still looking for their first win of the season. Rockbridge, who has not had a winning season since 2020, has lost 63-14 to Alleghany, 42-21 to Staunton and 33-16 to Parry McCluer. Last season, Blacksburg picked up one of the only wins in a 38-20 game.
Against Alleghany, Marshall Earhart rushed for 82 yards on seven carries, while Patrick Looney added 71 yards and touchdown. Elijah Watkins scored their other touchdown.
Blacksburg is starting to lean on its sophomore quarterback Sam Szefc who completed 10 of 27 passes for 155 yards in a loss to Floyd. Jaxon Keys rushed 12 times for 73 yards.
Christiansburg (1-2) at Cave Spring (1-2)
Christiansburg is ready to begin River Ridge District play against Cave who lost 40-0 to Glenvar a week ago. The Knights do have a 21-14 win in the season opener against Western Albermarle. The other loss came 21-14 to Northside.
The Blue Demons, who took at 42-33 win last season. hold the margin in this series with 13-11 mark.
Radford (2-1) at Galax (0-3)
Friday’s contest will be a matchup of last year’s Class 1 and 2 state champions, but Galax will be looking for its first win of the 2024 season after 20-7 loss to Carroll County, 52-0 to Graham and 34-0 to Glenvar after finishing 2023 11-4 and a 7-6 win over Essex in the state title game. Radford fell 56-19 to Galax for one of its few losses early in last year’s championship season.
Predictions this week:
Christiansburg 28, Cave Spring 20
Blacksburg 28, Rockbridge 18
Radford 32, Galax 10.
