THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Thursday, August 29, 1996 TAG: 9608280164
SECTION: SUFFOLK SUN PAGE: 25 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Sports
SOURCE: BY PAUL WHITE, STAFF WRITER
LENGTH: 48 lines
Area high-school football kicks off in the next two days with two longtime public-school rivals, a pair of private-school matchups and a game featuring the state's only eight-man team.
A full slate of games, featuring the first of two Lakeland-Nansemond River clashes, is scheduled for Sept. 6.
A brief look at the four local games:
Windsor at Nansemond-Suffolk
When: Thursday, 7:30 p.m.
Last year's records: Windsor (10-3); Nansemond-Suffolk (3-7)
Outlook: A tough early matchup for the Saints. The Dukes lack last year's size, but are still big enough to overpower Nansemond-Suffolk if their game clicks. David Bickley, a 210-pounder, takes over the lead runner's role. Expect him to get a steady diet of carries until the Saints prove they can stop him. Nansemond-Suffolk would also like to control the clock, and ultimately the game, via the ground, so look for RB Sidney Hazelwood to challenge a smallish Windsor defense.
Smithfield at Greensville
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last year's records: Greensville (6-5); Smithfield (1-9).
Outlook: ``Air Smithfield'' makes its debut as the Packers unveil their run-and-shoot offense. Reports from Smithfield scrimmages indicate Packer passing hasn't been really crisp yet, so don't be surprised if the Packers try to establish a running game before going to the air. Greensville returns few starters from a team which lost in the first round of the Division 4 playoffs last year.
Kenston Forest at Isle of Wight
When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last year's records: Kenston Forest (6-4); Isle of Wight (4-7)
Outlook: No longer able to fall back on the passing of school-record holder Richard Spady, the Chargers will look to employ a more balanced attack.
Cape Fear Christian vs. Southampton Academy When: Friday, 7:30 p.m.
Last year's records: Cape Fear (3-7); Southampton Academy (9-2).
Outlook: The Raiders look to prove plenty of talent remains after the graduation of conference player of the year Brian Hobbs in this eight-man football contest. by CNB