Two powerhouse programs are set to collide Friday night in Kenan Stadium as the Grimsley Whirlies (15-0) and the Rolesville Rams (14-1) meet in the 2024 NCHSAA 4A State Championship. These two familiar foes faced off earlier this season, with Grimsley claiming a 35-20 victory in late August. However, months have passed, and both teams have grown stronger, setting the stage for an epic rematch under the Friday night lights.
The Season So Far: Two Juggernauts
Grimsley, the top-ranked team in North Carolina, has been nothing short of dominant this season. The Whirlies boast a perfect 15-0 record, outscoring opponents 704-167. They’ve averaged a staggering 46.9 points per game while holding opposing offenses to just over 11 points per contest.
Rolesville, despite an early stumble against Grimsley, has been relentless ever since, rattling off 14 consecutive wins. The Rams are averaging an impressive 48.4 points per game and have scored 726 points overall this season, showcasing a potent aerial attack led by senior quarterback Braden Atkinson.
Both teams are battle-tested after deep playoff runs, with Rolesville overcoming perennial contenders like Cleveland and Cardinal Gibbons, while Grimsley edged defending champion Weddington and survived a tough contest against Hough.
Earlier Matchup: Grimsley 35, Rolesville 20
Their August clash feels like ancient history, but it provides insight into this high-stakes rematch. Grimsley’s dominant defense and balanced offense proved too much for Rolesville in that game. Senior running back Mitchell Summers exploded for 147 yards and 2 touchdowns, while quarterback Faizon Brandon added 175 passing yards and a touchdown through the air.
For Rolesville, Atkinson threw for 241 yards and 2 touchdowns, but turnovers and missed opportunities plagued the Rams. Since then, Rolesville’s offense has improved significantly, becoming more efficient and dangerous—qualities that will make this rematch far more competitive.
Key Players to Watch
Grimsley Whirlies:
- Mitchell Summers (RB): The workhorse of Grimsley’s offense, Summers has rushed for 2,207 yards this season, averaging 147.1 yards per game. His physical running style and ability to break big plays will be pivotal in controlling the tempo.
- Faizon Brandon (QB): The junior quarterback has been incredibly efficient, completing 77% of his passes for 2,632 yards and 33 touchdowns with just one interception all season.
- Bryce Davis (DL): On defense, senior Bryce Davis is a game-wrecker, averaging 7.8 tackles per game and leading the team with 17 sacks.
Rolesville Rams:
- Braden Atkinson (QB): Atkinson has had a stellar season, throwing for 3,627 yards and 50 touchdowns. His arm strength and chemistry with his receivers make him a constant threat.
- Gavin Waddell (WR): Waddell has been Atkinson’s go-to target, hauling in 58 catches for 921 yards and 11 touchdowns. His ability to stretch the field will challenge Grimsley’s secondary.
- Devon Thomas (RB): Thomas provides balance to the Rams’ offense, rushing for 797 yards and 16 touchdowns this season.
Matchups to Watch
1. Grimsley’s Ground Game vs. Rolesville’s Defense
Grimsley has leaned heavily on its rushing attack, averaging 245.9 rushing yards per game. Summers, alongside Brandon’s dual-threat ability, will look to test Rolesville’s defensive front, which has struggled at times against elite rushing teams.
2. Rolesville’s Passing Attack vs. Grimsley’s Secondary
The Rams’ aerial assault, led by Atkinson, averages 249.5 passing yards per game. Rolesville boasts a trio of talented receivers, including Waddell and Jalen Alford (812 yards, 16 TDs). Grimsley’s secondary, led by Kaden Catoe (11 touchdowns on offense, key contributor on defense), must limit big plays.
3. Turnover Battle
Both teams have thrived by forcing turnovers this season. Grimsley’s defense has tallied 10 interceptions, while Rolesville’s opportunistic secondary has recorded 9 picks. With so much talent on the field, a single turnover could swing the momentum.
Coaching and Adjustments
The rematch adds another layer of intrigue. Grimsley’s coaching staff, led by Coach Darryl Brown, has excelled at making adjustments all season. They’ll likely stick to their winning formula: a heavy dose of Summers on the ground and an opportunistic defense.
For Rolesville, Coach Martin Samek knows his team needs to start fast and limit mistakes. The Rams’ improved offensive efficiency since their Week 2 loss will give them confidence heading into this game.
What’s at Stake
For Grimsley, a win would cap off a perfect 16-0 season and secure their second state title in five years. The Whirlies are hungry to add to their championship legacy and prove they’re the best team in North Carolina.
Rolesville, on the other hand, seeks redemption. After falling short in past championship appearances, the Rams are determined to bring home their first-ever state title. A victory over Grimsley would avenge their earlier loss and cement Rolesville’s place as a top program in the state.
Final Thoughts
This championship showdown promises to be a classic. Grimsley’s balanced attack and elite defense will face its toughest test yet against Rolesville’s explosive offense. While Grimsley won their earlier matchup, expect a much closer contest this time.
Kickoff is set for Friday night at 7 PM. With the 4A title on the line, two of North Carolina’s best will leave it all on the field in pursuit of glory. Will Grimsley complete their perfect season, or will Rolesville rewrite the script?
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