Quarterback

In Week 1, both McNeely of Seneca and Cash of Stephens County proved they could lead their team down the field in “crunch time.” Both quarterbacks will be up against a tough defense and will important to establish some offense early. This should be an interesting match up as both quarterbacks have some reliable targets if they can the ball out to them.

Advantage: Seneca

Running Backs

Seneca is without its top rushers from last season in Kevin Bradley and C.J. Washington. However, the Bobcats still have a strong backfield led by Nick Sims. The junior rushed for 83 yards on 14 carries last week. If Sims is unsuccessful, the Bobcats will look to either senior Antonio Blassingame or freshman Chris Robinson. Question marks remain for Stephens County who hopes to start incoming transfer RB Ren Tealsey. The Indians’ back is nursing an injured knee and might not be able to play. If he is unable to play, Stephens County will likely grant Jai Holland the start.

Advantage: Seneca

Wide Receivers

Seneca has no returning starters at the wide receiver position, but have three talented targets in Michael Earle, James Hunter and TE Wynton Stephens who combined for 130 yards and 2 touchdowns. Kadaryl Burtch and Jaquan Trammell lead Stephens County. Trammell had one catch last week, but it went for a 37-yard score.

Advantage: Stephens County

Offensive Line

Seneca is working on rebuilding a tough offensive line from last year. Seneca has the size and talent upfront, but there is a lack of experience. Stephens County, however, has the more experienced and a sized offensive line. They will have a tough task though, in protecting Cash and opening up holes for the running game against a stingy defense.

Advantage: Stephens County

Run Defense

Seneca has a tough and talented defense. Senior Lucas White leads the defensive line. White is one of the two returning starters from last season. In their pre-season scrimmages, Seneca held Pickens, West-Oak, and Daniel to a combined four points-both were safeties. Against Pendleton, the defense continued to perform well, but couldn’t stop an emotional Pendleton offense from putting together a textbook two-minute drive. Stephens County was also impressive as they gave up only 80 yards on the ground to Flowery Branch.

Advantage: Stephens County

Pass Defense

Seneca’s secondary played stout defense allowing only 80 yards in the air against Pendleton. Junior Kenny Watt, the other of only two returning starters, hopes to lead the secondary to another strong outing. They will need that same type of performance again this week against an offensively talented team. The Indians gave up 192 yards in Week 1 and will need to play a bit tighter in the secondary. Early success for the Bobcats in the passing game could open up the running game and that could be trouble for the Indians.

Advantage: Seneca

Special Teams

Junior soccer-standout Seth Rothell is in charge of the placekicking duties for the Bobcats. Last week he showed he could also move as he ran in a two-point conversion on a fake field goal. In the return game, Hunter and Earle are likely to get the nod. Stephens County looks to junior Josh Gailer who was 1-for-1 on extra points last year as a backup.

Advantage: Seneca