2019 4A Sandhills Athletic Conference pre-season predictions
1) Richmond Senior, 7-0 conference, 11-0 overall
2) Scotland, 6-1, 9-2
3) 71st, 5-2, 9-2
4) Pinecrest, 4-3, 8-3
5) Jack Britt, 3-4, 3-8
6T) Hoke County, 1-5, 4-7
6T) Lumberton, 1-5, 2-9
6T) Purnell Swett, 1-5, 1-10
Richmond Senior should repeat as conference champs, followed by Scotland and 71st. Look for Pinecrest and Jack Britt in the middle of the pack. Hoke County, Lumberton, and Purnell Swett battle it out to stay of the conference basement and could shock some folks.
Richmond is simply loaded this year and I believe they will be in the discussion for the 4AA state championship. This team has tremendous depth, leadership, coaching, and talent at every aspect of the game.
Scotland's defense really came to life during the latter stages of the 2018 season. Scotland might not have the depth or talent to match Richmond on paper, but their leadership and coaching definitely matches the Red Raiders. In addition, Scotland's 2018 4AA East regional championship gives the Fighting Scots an experience edge over the Red Raiders.
I don't think Richmond will blow Scotland away at all, and in fact, I expect a pretty close game for at least through the 3rd quarter. Depending on depth, health, and flow of the game, Scotland defeating Richmond would not be a huge upset (although this would be a moderate upset).
So does this mean that Richmond is a contender again? They are always in the mix of being a top team; but are they one of the top-10 or top-5 teams you'd consider as a contender for the title?
Richmond is a definite contender for a 4AA title crown. This is their best team in a decade.
