CFNN Reporters: AbbiKate Daughtry and Rachel Leonard

The past two weeks, the Cape Fear Colts have been on the road to face conference match-ups, Purnell Swett and Grays Creek. The pressure to win was high for the Colts, not just to continue keeping a pristine record- but keeping it especially in conference play. The Colts came through though, pulling out a strong win 44-8 against Swett and another victory 50-20 against Grays Creek. This was two of the Colts’ most dominant performances we have seen- offensively and defensively. 

Senior Quarterback Geronimo Sanchez got the ball moving during both games. The senior quarterback got through Swett and Creek’s defensive line multiple times, gaining two touchdowns, helping secure the win for the Colts vs Swett. Even when under pressure Sanchez is a force on the field, achieving multiple pass completions and getting the ball moving himself. Against Gray’s Creek, Sanchez had three contributions for a touchdown. He threw two darts, one to Underwood and one to C. Wynn, both being phenomenal scores in the endzone. Sanchez also had a rushing touchdown against the Bears. 

Whether it be the Rams or the Bears, the Colts defensive efforts stand out. Against the Rams, the Colts secured a total of 8 sacks. The team’s “Sam” linebacker, Aydin Leonard plays a major role in the team’s defensive abilities. His aggression and mentality speak to why he wears “Number Zero” on his back- rightfully so. Leonard was able to secure 3 pass deflections helping prevent Swett from scoring. Cape Fear Defense can always count on him to give it his all on the field. 

Defense also had a dominant performance against Gray’s Creek. Another Senior who continues to show out week after week- Venson Council. Against the Rams, Council had a stunning pick-6, contributing to his team’s win. Players like Council are why it’s undeniable that Cape Fear’s Defensive Team displays versatility and power. 

The class of 2027 continues to show out during match-ups. Running back Tai Phillips has been a stellar component of Cape Fear’s Offensive squad. With two touchdowns versus Purnell Swett, and a 72-yard rushing touchdown against Grays Creek, Philips is a nightmare to play against, but a unit to play with. 

“That’s my goal coming into the game. I want to be the first hitter- the first blood drawn in the game all of the time. Setting the tone is a big thing for me; the way I start is the way I am going to finish,” said Philips.

It is quite undeniable that Landon Underwood, a junior Wide Receiver is a force to be reckoned with, and quite frankly an all around athlete. Against Grays Creek, Underwood walked the red carpet all the way to the endzone- three times. It’s clear when he gets on the field, that’s “his” arena. This junior is a key component on the field for the Colts. Sophomore Quarterback Tres Daughtry had a clear path to Underwood in the end zone where the Colts got the first of many touchdowns for the night. During the game Underwood also had one rushing touchdown, including another touchdown due to Senior Quarterback Geronimo Sanchez, who threw him a missile. 

“This is obviously a big rivalry game and we need to stay off the internet to focus on our team. We need to bring everything we have, take risks, and just execute our game plan to 100 percent playing a full 48 minutes of football,” said junior wide receiver Landon Underwood.

“It felt amazing. All the preparation and practice. I work hard with the boys, especially Geronimo Sanchez. Him, as well as the coaching staff have helped me develop my abilities as a quarterback with my reads and progressions. In the future, I just want to be a great quarterback and teammate, and to just keep working hard,” said Daughtry, the sophomore QB. 

After being on the road for the last two Friday Night Lights, the Colts will be back in the Stable for Senior Night where they will battle it out with the Terry Sanford Bulldogs! The Battle of the Blues game is known for its energy, school spirit, and an intense game between both teams. If you love the boys in blue on the east side of the river, then come out and show your Colt Pride. Will it be a 4-peat for Cape Fear? Colt Country invites you to come witness it. Between Senior Night Presentations, the last regular season home game, and the biggest rivalry in the 910, you should probably prepare to clear your calendar for this Friday night. 

“My goal is to beat Terry Sanford. Offensively we need to execute plays and get a few big plays that are going to get us on the score board. Defensively we need to force them to put together long drives; we can’t let them beat us on big plays,” said Geronimo Sanchez.

Well, there you have it. The Colts have circled Friday night on the calendar, as surely the Bulldogs have as well. Be there tomorrow night.