#14 South Columbus vs #19 Kinston Playoff Preview
The NCHSAA 2A Playoffs kick off with an intriguing first-round clash as #19 Kinston (6-4) travels to Tabor City to face #14 South Columbus (8-2). This marks the first-ever meeting between the two programs, and both teams bring firepower and momentum into the postseason.
Kinston: Aerial Attack Leading the Charge
Kinston’s strength lies in its passing game, which has been clicking on all cylinders. The Vikings have thrown for over 195 yards in six of their 10 games, highlighted by a 404-yard performance against East Duplin. With a season completion rate of 58%, Kinston has been efficient and protective of the football, throwing only two interceptions in the past five games. Over the last four games, the completion rate has surged to over 65%.
While the rushing game has struggled to find consistency—gaining over 50 yards in just five games—Kinston’s passing attack more than compensates, averaging 207 yards per game with 2.5 touchdowns through the air.
On defense, Kinston has been opportunistic, scoring on two fumble returns and one interception return. The unit has held opponents to 16.9 points per game, allowing more than 25 points just twice.
Special teams have also contributed, with two kickoff returns for touchdowns, though punting has been less effective, averaging 28.5 yards per punt.
South Columbus: Ground-and-Pound Juggernaut
The Stallions are a powerhouse on the ground, with eight games surpassing 240 rushing yards and four games topping 300. South Columbus has shown a knack for the end zone, scoring five rushing touchdowns in a game five times, six touchdowns three times, and even hitting the eight-touchdown mark once. Their offense averages an impressive 285 rushing yards per game, complemented by a minimal passing game that has eclipsed 150 yards just twice.
South Columbus averages 38 points per game while allowing only 16.7. They’ve relied heavily on their run game, rarely attempting more than 10 passes in a contest. Their passing completion rate stands at 50%, but the air attack is largely secondary to their dominant ground game.
Defensively, the Stallions have scored on both an interception return and a punt return, while their special teams unit has been consistent, converting 38 of 41 extra-point attempts and a perfect 1-for-1 on field goals.
Key Matchups
Kinston’s Passing Game vs. South Columbus Secondary
With Kinston’s passing game operating at a high level, South Columbus’ secondary will be tested. Kinston’s efficiency and ability to avoid turnovers in recent weeks could be a significant factor, particularly if the Vikings find success early through the air.South Columbus’ Rushing Attack vs. Kinston’s Front Seven
The Stallions’ ability to dominate on the ground is their bread and butter. Kinston’s defense, which has been strong in forcing turnovers and scoring, will need to step up to slow down a South Columbus team that has shown it can score in bunches.Special Teams Impact
Both teams have dynamic special teams capable of swinging momentum. Kinston has returned two kickoffs for touchdowns, while South Columbus has a punt return score and boasts a reliable kicking game.
Trey’s Predictions:
This is going to be a good one. SC is 8-2 and Kinston is 6-4. SC is the better team, right? Wrong! Kinston is battled tested straight out of the ECC!!! Kinston is NOT the team you want to see in the playoffs!!! KHS defense needs to stand on business tonight. Kinston by 8
