Craig County vs. Grayson County: A Battle of Resilient Football Programs

As the 2024-2025 high school football season continues to unfold, two Virginia schools are showing strong performances and engaging fans with exciting matchups. Craig County and Grayson County, both boasting identical 6-3 overall records, have made notable strides in their respective regions and are setting the stage for an exciting rivalry. Let’s break down how both teams compare across various categories, highlighting key stats, players, and records that make them contenders in this competitive division.

Team Overview

Craig County has had a solid season with a 6-3 overall record, finishing 1-3 in the region, and has proven its resilience, particularly in away games with a 3-1 record. Offensively, Craig County averages 31.3 points per game, showcasing their ability to score effectively. However, they also struggle defensively, with 149 points allowed over the course of the season.

Grayson County, on the other hand, has managed an impressive 4-0 region record, sweeping their division with a perfect mark. While they also stand at 6-3 overall, Grayson County’s defensive unit has been stingier, allowing only 132 points throughout the season. Their offense, too, is potent, averaging 29.7 points per game, although they slightly lag behind Craig County in scoring output.

Key Team Comparisons

When comparing team statistics, Grayson County outshines Craig County in several categories, notably rushing yards. The Grayson Cougars are averaging 213.6 rushing yards per game, far surpassing Craig County’s total. Craig County has a balanced attack but falls behind in total yards per game (325.3), compared to Grayson County’s more dominant 375.3 yards per game. Defensively, Craig County averages 54.3 tackles per game, a significant number, yet Grayson County’s solid all-around performance and fewer points allowed showcases their defensive prowess.

• Rushing Yards per Game:
  • Craig County: 101.8 (Aaron Peterson)
  • Grayson County: 213.6 (Led by various players)
• Passing Yards per Game:
  • Craig County: 111.6 (Maverik Goad)
  • Grayson County: 111.8 (Maverik Goad leads the team in this category as well)

Standout Players

Craig County’s standout player is undoubtedly Aaron Peterson, who leads the team with 101.8 rushing yards per game. His performance is vital to the team’s offensive success. Additionally, Maverik Goad has contributed 111.6 passing yards per game, and his total offensive yardage (138.9 yards per game) ranks among the team’s top performances.

Grayson County features a well-rounded team with no single player dominating across the board, but Maverik Goad has contributed greatly in both the passing and total yards per game categories, amassing 138.9 yards per game. Defensive stalwart Mac Goad, who leads the team in tackles per game (6.9), has also proven critical in Grayson County’s ability to shut down opposing offenses.

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

Interestingly, both teams have faced off against similar opponents this season, providing a chance to compare their results. Grayson County has proven victorious over their common opponent, George Wythe, with a 35-28 win. Craig County, meanwhile, has yet to face George Wythe this season but will look to prove themselves in future matchups against comparable teams.

Overall Records and Playoff Implications

Both schools will aim to finish the season strong, as both teams are in playoff contention. Craig County has demonstrated toughness on the road and could be a dangerous team in the postseason. Grayson County, undefeated in region play, is in prime position to make a deep run with their perfect regional record and more balanced team performance.

Record Breakdown:

• Craig County: 6-3 overall, 1-3 region
• Grayson County: 6-3 overall, 4-0 region

Conclusion

As the season draws to a close, both Craig County and Grayson County have shown they are forces to be reckoned with in Virginia high school football. While Craig County may have the edge in scoring and offensive output, Grayson County’s all-around balance and dominance in the region highlight them as one of the top teams in their division. Fans of both teams will surely be watching closely to see how these two schools perform in their final regular-season games and as they prepare for potential playoff berths.