The East Surry Cardinals (0-2) travel west to face the Murphy Bulldogs (1-1) in a key non-conference matchup on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7:30 PM. East Surry is searching for its first win after a rocky start, while Murphy looks to build momentum after splitting their first two contests. Both programs are known for playoff pedigree, making this a game with pride and confidence on the line.
Game Details
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Matchup: East Surry (Pilot Mountain, NC) @ Murphy (NC)
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Date & Time: Friday, September 5, 2025 – 7:30 PM
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Location: Murphy High School (Murphy, NC)
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Live Coverage: Follow live scores on MaxPreps
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East Surry Cardinals
The Cardinals have struggled early, but their passing attack has shown potential. QB JB Davis has been the centerpiece, averaging 189 passing yards per game and 189 total yards per game, targeting WR Aidan Harpe, who averages 77 receiving yards per contest. On the ground, RB Jon Hutchens contributes with 84 rushing yards per game, giving East Surry balance when protection holds. Defensively, the Cardinals must tighten up after allowing 75 points across two games.
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2025 Record: 0-2
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National Rank: #4,800
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State Rank (NC): #130
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Class Rank: #10
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Key to Win: Protect Davis long enough to establish the pass game and prevent Murphy from controlling tempo on the ground.
Main Squad:
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JB Davis – QB (#13, 189 passing yds/game, 189 total yds/game)
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Jon Hutchens – RB (#21, 84 rushing yds/game)
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Aidan Harpe – WR (#10, 77 receiving yds/game)
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Caleb Riddle – OL
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Logan Johnson – LB
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Ethan Brown – DB
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Mason Hill – WR/DB
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Luke Watson – DL
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Brady Hayes – LB
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Carter Simmons – OL/DL
Murphy Bulldogs
The Bulldogs enter at 1-1, showing resilience after a tough opener. QB Brady Grant has been efficient, averaging 122 passing yards per game and 124.5 total yards, while RB Blake Davis provides a steady ground attack with 67.5 rushing yards per contest. WR Ryan Payne (44 receiving yds/game) adds a reliable target in the passing game. Defensively, Murphy leans on LB Janthony Gooden, who averages 10 tackles per game, and pass-rusher Landen Lape, who has 0.5 sacks per game.
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2025 Record: 1-1
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National Rank: #3,523
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State Rank (NC): #95
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Class Rank: #2
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Key to Win: Lean on a balanced run-pass mix while letting Gooden anchor the defense against East Surry’s aerial attack.
Main Squad:
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Brady Grant – QB (#10, 122 passing yds/game, 124.5 total yds/game)
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Blake Davis – RB (#8, 67.5 rushing yds/game)
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Ryan Payne – WR (#3, 44 receiving yds/game)
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Janthony Gooden – LB (#71, 10 tackles/game)
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Landen Lape – DL (#51, 0.5 sacks/game)
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Connor Allen – OL
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Jaxson Taylor – DB
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Eli Moore – LB
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Zachary Hall – DL
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Caleb Wilson – WR/DB
Rankings & Records
| Team | National Rank | State Rank | Class Rank | Record |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Surry | #4,800 | #130 (NC) | #10 | 0-2 |
| Murphy | #3,523 | #95 (NC) | #2 | 1-1 |
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.
