Senior Jashawn Wiley listens to head coach Cory Lea during during a preseason scrimmage against North Iredell High School. Photo by jrkproductions.
After back-to-back losses to open the season, the Pirates look to get back on track at Person High School tonight.
Riverside’s defense struggled in losses to East Wake and Sanderson that saw the Pirates give up 105 points and only score 32.
Key pieces from last year’s team graduated, such as free safety Channing Gaines. Gaines led the team in many defensive statistics, such as interceptions, tackles per game, forced fumbles and fumble recoveries.
“It’s always tough, [losing those players] just from mainly the experience aspect,” said head coach Cory Lea. “They know what it’s like to have to execute in crunch time, they know what it’s like to have the knowledge of either offense or defense.” Last season, Lea emphasized the run game, with 170 rush attempts last year, compared to just 118 pass attempts. So far this season, the passing game has been more successful.
“Just an overall change in our offensive line,” said Lea. “We’re built a little better to pass block, pass protect. Also our receiving core is fairly experienced.” In just the last game alone, three separate receivers had a touchdown, with junior Taylen Lea getting 116 yards and a TD.
“Our first four guys – Dakari Monds, Taylen Lea, Talib Harrel and Leighton Lascallette – had a lot of experience last year, so we’re able to probably be a little more efficient passing the football,” said Lea.
Harrell, a senior, also had 87 yards on just four receptions, for an average of 21.8 yards per reception, along with two touchdowns of his own, in the game against Sanderson.
“We just need to continue to figure out different ways of getting the ball in their hands,” said Lea. “Taylen is probably the most knowledgeable when it comes to our offense, and Talib is pretty much one of the best pound- for- pound best athletes we have out there, so it’s gotta be our focus to do whatever we can to get the ball in their hands.”
Lea also believes the team’s camaraderie will help them grow and find success this season.
“We’re young, and we’re probably one of the best groups of kids from a character aspect we’ve seen in a while,” said Lea. “They’ve played together for a while, they really enjoy being around each other…Outside of football they spend a lot of time with each other, and that’s what you want within your football team. You want them to be able to spend time around each other, and create those bonds that manifest themselves out of the football field.”
