Two undefeated Eastern North Carolina powers are set to clash as West Craven (Vanceboro, NC) hosts New Bern (New Bern, NC) in a high-stakes non-conference showdown on Friday, September 5, 2025, at 7:00 PM. Both teams enter at 2-0 and have already taken down strong opponents, making this one of the top matchups of Week 3.
Game Details
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Matchup: New Bern (NC) vs. West Craven (NC)
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Date & Time: 9/5/2025 – 7:00 PM
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Location: West Craven High School, Vanceboro, NC
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Live Coverage: Follow live scores on MaxPreps
Fans can purchase digital tickets through GoFan or stream the game live on the NFHS Network (subscription: $13.99/month or $79.99/year).Watch here: Start your free trial today
New Bern Bears (2-0)
The Bears have looked like a state contender through two weeks, scoring 60 points while allowing just 14. QB Terrance McCormick has been on fire, averaging 283.5 passing yards and over 300 total yards per game. WR Kaishawn Taylor has emerged as his top target, while RB Israel Wooten keeps defenses honest on the ground. Defensively, Braylen Cooper has been a force with sacks and tackles up front.
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2025 Record: 2-0
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National Rank: #609
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State Rank (NC): #12
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Key to Win: Keep McCormick’s passing game rolling and maintain defensive pressure to limit West Craven’s playmaking QB DJ Davis.
Main Squad:
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#3 Terrance McCormick – QB
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#10 Israel Wooten – RB
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#24 Kaishawn Taylor – WR
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#11 Marcus Green – WR
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#55 Jordan Davis – OL
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#63 Anthony Johnson – OL
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#90 Braylen Cooper – DL
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#21 Isaiah Brooks – LB
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#7 Cameron White – DB
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#5 Malik Carter – DB
West Craven Eagles (2-0)
West Craven has been equally impressive, shutting out Havelock 7-0 and then following with another strong win. Dual-threat QB DJ Davis has led the way with 156.5 passing yards and 59 rushing yards per game, showing his versatility. Defensively, Behn Dennison and Emmanuel Miller have anchored a tough unit that has allowed just 8 points in two games.
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2025 Record: 2-0
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National Rank: #4,223
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State Rank (NC): #117
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Key to Win: Control time of possession with Davis’ balanced attack and rely on their defense to keep McCormick from taking over the game.
Main Squad:
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#6 DJ Davis – QB
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#0 Christian Dinapoli – WR
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#2 Caleb Johnson – WR
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#55 Michael Thompson – OL
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#62 Xavier Lee – OL
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#9 Emmanuel Miller – DL
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#4 Behn Dennison – LB
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#15 Jordan Williams – LB
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#3 Isaiah Carter – DB
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#8 Marcus Harris – DB
Rankings & Records
| Team | National Rank | State Rank (NC) | Overall Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Bern | #609 | #12 | 2-0 |
| West Craven | #4,223 | #117 | 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.
