FOOTBALL PREVIEW

FUQUA (3-0) AT ISLE OF WIGHT (3-1)

Kickoff: 7 p.m.

Last season: Isle of Wight 55, Fuqua 7

Coach’s game notes: The Falcons have been focused during an intense week of practice in preparation for the Chargers, moving forward with the mindset that the playoffs are starting for them right now. Efforts have been made to replicate the expected conditions Friday night, including the impact made on proceedings by the Chargers’ loudspeaker.

The Falcons are ranked No. 1 in the first Virginia Independent Schools Athletic Association Division III state ratings of the year, putting a bullseye on their backs.

The Chargers attack with several different formations, with senior Donald King Jr. likely their most potent weapon. Senior Jordan Baines is athletic at quarterback.

BLUESTONE (2-2) AT BUCKINGHAM (1-4)

Kickoff: 7 p.m.

Last season: Buckingham 42, Bluestone 13

Coach’s game notes: The Knights have been struggling in their preparations for their homecoming game, with injuries playing a role in the difficulties.

Some offensive success for the Knights has been due to a power running game, which may continue to play a role as they will feature a mix of things on Friday.

The Barons are an improved team compared to recent years in which they have had three wins at most. They are led on offense by senior Tevarius Brooks, an athletic dual-threat quarterback who is probably their best player. On defense, the Barons are aggressive and employ man-to-man coverage most of the time.

PRINCE EDWARD (2-3) AT GOOCHLAND (5-0)

Kickoff: 7 p.m.

Last season: Goochland 64, Prince Edward 41

Coach’s game notes: The Eagles are preparing for one of the best teams in the district, and they know they have to be fundamentally sound on both sides of the ball. In practice, the focus has been on blocking and tackling.

The Bulldogs are disciplined with the ball, running a type of Wing-T offense that employs a lot of misdirection, sweeps and tosses. They have four key running backs who operate in tandem with a strong, aggressive offensive line, and they have an effective quarterback.

On defense, the Bulldogs have also been strong, recording three shutouts and allowing only 23 points in five games.

BYE: CUMBERLAND (1-4)