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Parkersburg South eyes complete effort vs. PHS

By Jordan Holland 4 min read

PARKERSBURG -- Though the results aren't what Parkersburg South has wanted them to be through three games, a win in this week's CrossTown Showdown would make the Patriots feel a lot better.

When South welcomes the rival Parkersburg Big Reds to Erickson All-Sports Facility at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Patriots head coach Larry Thompson is hoping to see his squad put a complete four quarters of football together.

"We have yet to do that," the second-year PSHS boss said. "Our kids have shown a ton of heart. We've played three phenomenal opponents, but that's no excuse not to execute. We have the right group of boys."

Last year, in Thompson's CrossTown Showdown debut, Parkersburg prevailed over South 20-17 at Stadium Field, and the Big Reds lead the all-time series 40-18. However, neither side has won back-to-back meetings in the series since PHS won in 2017 and 2018. Fifth-year PHS head coach Matt Kimes is 2-2 against Parkersburg South.

"Coach Kimes is a master of his craft," Thompson said. "They're going to show a lot of formations, what we call eye candy. A lot of misdirection and deception. They show up and rise to the occasion. These rivalry games aren't always about talent, but who can control their emotions. They'll be ready for that moment, and we have to be as well."

South has shown the ability to put up points, averaging 32 points per game. However, the Patriots defense has had trouble getting enough stops, surrendering 49.3 points per contest.

"We've got to find a way to dig out a win," Thompson said.

"We've got to be disciplined. I think we match up well. We know each other well. It depends whose kids show up. Not letting the game be too big for them. That's something we've really been preaching."

In his first season as the starting signal-caller, South quarterback Logen Arnold has put up some big numbers. The sophomore has completed 50 of 95 pass attempts for 654 yards and seven touchdowns. He has also thrown six interceptions.

South has a plethora of weapons at the skill positions, led by Logan Graham, who has 16 receptions for 314 yards and four TDs. Josiah Swiger has added 12 catches for 138 yards and two scores.

"Logen is a very cerebral kid," Thompson said. "He's a student of the game, asks a lot of questions. He's done a good job. He's really growing up and has shown maturity and leadership. We're adding more to his plate every week. He's leading us in the right direction.

"We like to do different things with Logan Graham. He's a Swiss army knife for us. Josiah Swiger is a very rangy kid. He's a playmaker on both sides of the ball.

Kooper Jackson has enjoyed success as the Patriots' primary ball-carrier, and Asa Yost does a good job filling in when needed. Jackson is at 62 carries, 373 yards and four touchdowns while Yost has 24 attempts for 144 yards and two TDs. Jaqwae Brown is another player to look out for when South has the ball.

"Kooper's doing a great job out of the backfield," Thompson said. "Asa Yost, he keeps showing up big for us, too. Jaqwae has shown flashes. He's dangerous in space."

Defensively James Lattea has a team-high 31 total tackles, including 3 1-2 for a loss. Yost has 30 total tackles and leads the group with 4 1-2 TFLs and three forced fumbles. Asher Prunty is the sack leader with 2 1-2 to go along 3 1-2 TFLs, while Swiger's two interceptions are a team-high. Charles Williams has three stops in the backfield. Thompson also called Justice Caplinger "the heart and soul of our defense."

Starting offensive tackle Easton Parsons was injured in the season opener against Wheeling Park and will miss the PHS game. Otherwise, South is relatively healthy outside of the normal bumps and bruises that come with playing under the Friday night lights.

"I'm looking forward to that atmosphere, and I'm looking forward to Parkersburg South playing four quarters of good football," Thompson said. "If we do that, I think it'll be a fun night."

Contact Jordan Holland at jholland@newsandsentinel.com.

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