Two Winston-Salem rivals square off as the R.J. Reynolds Demons (2-0) host the Atkins Camels (0-2) in a non-conference matchup on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Reynolds has opened the season strong, while Atkins is searching for their first win after a tough start.
Game Details
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Matchup: Atkins (NC) vs. R.J. Reynolds (NC)
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Date & Time: 9/5/2025 – 7:00 PM
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Location: R.J. Reynolds High School, Winston-Salem, NCLive Coverage: Follow live scores on MaxPreps
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Atkins Camels (0-2)
Atkins has struggled early, scoring just 14 points while allowing 123 in their first two games. QB Kenneth Best has been the team’s top offensive producer, contributing both in the air and on the ground, while WR Justice Holley leads the receiving corps. Defensively, Graysen Barringer has been a bright spot, averaging 12 tackles per game. To pull the upset, the Camels must find ways to move the ball consistently and slow down Reynolds’ balanced attack.
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2025 Record: 0-2
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National Rank: #10,213
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State Rank (NC): #315
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Key to Win: Establish Kenneth Best on offense and get defensive stops early to prevent Reynolds from pulling away.
Main Squad:
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#12 Kenneth Best – QB/RB
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#24 Justice Holley – WR
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#18 Marcus Taylor – WR
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#55 Graysen Barringer – LB/OL
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#62 Anthony Woods – OL
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#33 Jalen Carter – RB
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#44 Isaiah Davis – DL
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#7 Malik Anderson – DB
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#2 Chris James – DB
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#50 Cameron Scott – OL
R.J. Reynolds Demons (2-0)
R.J. Reynolds has impressed to start the season, defeating Glenn and North Forsyth with a combined score of 68-26. QB Tommy Elrod has been sharp, averaging 190 passing yards per game, while RB Antonio Samuels adds balance with 155 rushing yards per game. WR Herschel McNeal has emerged as a big-play target, and the defense, led by Hughes Laurienti, has been stout. The Demons will look to stay undefeated and continue building confidence before conference play.
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2025 Record: 2-0
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National Rank: #5,723
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State Rank (NC): #156
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Key to Win: Continue their offensive balance and defensive discipline while avoiding turnovers that could keep Atkins in the game.
Main Squad:
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#5 Tommy Elrod – QB
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#0 Antonio Samuels – RB
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#1 Herschel McNeal – WR
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#15 Jordan Ellis – WR
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#72 Chris Howard – OL
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#65 Nathaniel Carter – OL
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#99 Hughes Laurienti – DL
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#8 Caleb Johnson – LB
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#6 Isaiah Brown – DB
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#4 Marcus Lee – DB
Rankings & Records
| Team | National Rank | State Rank (NC) | Overall Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atkins | #10,213 | #315 | 0-2 |
| R.J. Reynolds | #5,723 | #156 | 2-0 |
Abu Sayem is a sports enthusiast and writer who enjoys sharing stories about high school athletics. He is passionate about celebrating the teamwork, dedication, and spirit of young athletes.
