2018 Pigskin Preview: Arendell Parrott Academy

Head Coach:

Matt Beaman (47-20, 7th season at Arendell Parrott)

Schedule

Aug. 17 at Rocky Mount Academy
Aug. 31 vs. Bear Grass Charter
Sept. 7 vs. Cary Christian
Sept. 21 at Southampton Academy
Sept. 28 at St. David’s
Oct. 5 vs. Rocky Mount Academy
Oct. 12 vs. GRACE Christian
Oct. 19 at Faith Christian

Last 5 years

2017: 9-2, reached NCISAA 2A championship game

2016: 7-4, won NCISAA 2A championship

2015: 11-1, won NCISAA 2A championship

2014: 10-2, reached NCISAA 2A championship game

2013: 6-5, reached NCISAA 2A semifinals

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Game to watch

Aug. 17 at Rocky Mount Academy

The game of the year is the season opener for the Patriots for numerous reasons. The Eagles are the preseason No. 1 team in the NCISAA according to Maxpreps and defeated Arendell Parrott twice last season by a combined nine points, including a 66-60 overtime win in the 2017 state title game. This game will be a barometer for Arendell Parrott.

Players to watch

Matthew Huntley, WR/DB

The senior will look to shore up the receiving core after the loss of top receiver A.J. Banker to graduation while continuing his ballhawking skills on defense. Huntley recorded six interceptions in 2017, including four in one game.

Shy Thompson, RB

Thompson shared time in the backfield with Christian Jones and did well, recording 767 yards with team-highs in rushing touchdowns (12) and yards per carry (9.7). The senior may also cause more havoc catching passes after averaging 20.5 yards on only six catches.

Zach Vendemia, QB/LB/S

Vendemia only threw one pass last season, but it was for a 34-yard touchdown. Still, the senior knows the system after backing up Connor Bright for several years and was strong defensively with 59 tackles, three fumble recoveries, two interceptions and a sack.