James Kenan head football coach Tim Grady watches his linemen work on technique and stance during practice. The offensive unit has opened holes for a rushing attack that’s compiled more than 1,100 yards in the first two games of the season. (Rudy Coggins|mountolivetribune.com)
WARSAW — James Kenan and Midway staged a record-setting, non-conference affair with a fireworks-like display from their respective offenses on Friday evening.
The teams combined to score 19 touchdowns and compiled 1,293 yards of total offense on 134 plays at Bill Taylor Field.
Kenan prevailed 80-58. The 80-point outburst broke the old record set during a 75-0 romp over former Carolina 1A Conference rival North Johnston on Oct. 16, 1998.
“[We’re] very proud of the way our offensive line [have] came out taking control in two weeks,” Tigers head coach Tim Grady said. “They have created over 1,100 yards rushing in only two games. They are silenced leaders and we are blessed to have their leadership.”
Seven Tigers toted the pigskin and combined for a single-game, school-record 608 yards on 46 carries. Junior Stephone Stanely racked up a career-high 276 yards and four touchdowns on 13 attempts. Tyquise Wilson rambled for 146 yards and 3 scores on just 10 carries.
“Stephone had an impressive night,” Grady said. “He is proving to be a true threat in the backfield. Others included and David and Kendrick Zeleya, Tyquise with some great runs and Josh Mitchell.”
Kenan finished with 667 yards and 10 TDs on offense.
Hasaan Kornegay emerged as the Tigers’ defensive leader with an eye-popping 20 tackles, including 4.5 stops behind the line of scrimmage. Senior multi-athlete Shykwon Williams posted 10 tackles, followed by David Zeleya and Coarey Smith with eight apiece.
The Tigers recorded 88 tackles as a team.
“Kornegay had an awesome night on defense,” Grady said. “He is big, strong, fast and plays very physically. He is a defensive captain for sure. He’s a man of few words, but his actions speak louder. [I’m] very proud of our young defense. Only three of the players on the field started at their positions last year. We have a few adjustments to make, but we will continue to get better.”
Kenan snapped a three-game skid against Midway.
Raiders quarterback Trip Westbrook threw for a career-high 472 yards on 26 of 43 passing. The Tiger defense picked him off three times.
Westbrook used three primary targets — Andre Gregory (8 catches, 176 yards, three TDs), Ke’Mari McNeill (8-137, TD) and Wyatt Herring (5-114).
Gehemiah Blue paced the ground attack with 82 yards and four TDs on 20 carries.
The Tigers (2-0 overall) begin a two-game road swing next Friday at Whiteville. They visit East Bladen on Sept. 8 and return home Sept. 15 for a battle against defending 2A state champion East Duplin.
Midway (1-1) is the guest of North Johnston on Thursday.
