The Cheraw (SC) varsity football team will host Marlboro County (Bennettsville, SC) in a non-conference matchup on Friday, August 29, at 7:30 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: South Carolina High School Football
Who: Cheraw vs Marlboro County
When: Friday, August 29, 2025
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch on NFHS Network

Cheraw and Marlboro County Set for High-Stakes Clash After Strong Season Starts

As the 2025 high school football season unfolds, Cheraw High School and Marlboro County High are both off to perfect starts, setting the stage for a highly anticipated showdown. Both teams boast 1-0 records, but their early performances reveal contrasting styles and strengths that could make Friday night’s matchup a thrilling contest.

Season Kickoff Performances

Marlboro County (25-26) opened their season with a dominant 56-6 victory, showcasing a high-powered offense that amassed 528 total yards. The team averaged 360 rushing yards and 168 passing yards per game, demonstrating a balanced yet explosive attack. Quarterback Tre Blakeney led the way with 129 passing yards per game and 187 total yards, while Troy Hailey contributed 115 rushing yards per game. Wideout Mikyi Littles added 60 receiving yards per game, making Marlboro County a well-rounded offensive unit.

Cheraw (25-26) also started the season strong, posting a 48-7 win in their opener. The team relied on a more conservative rushing game, averaging 166 rushing yards per game, but complemented it with 164 passing yards per game. Standout players included running back Justyn Joint with 101 rushing yards per game and quarterback Kadin Thomas with 111 passing yards per game. Wide receiver Nick Gordon leads the team in scoring, averaging 12 points per game.

Quarter-by-Quarter Comparison

The scoring trends from each team’s season openers hint at their differing offensive philosophies. Marlboro County’s scoring was particularly strong in the second and third quarters, putting up 20 and 16 points, respectively, whereas Cheraw dominated early, scoring 21 points in each of the first two quarters before slowing in the second half. This could indicate Cheraw’s ability to start strong, while Marlboro County may finish stronger as games progress.

Defensive and Statistical Matchups

Marlboro County leads in total offensive output, gaining 528 yards per game compared to Cheraw’s 330. They also average more tackles per game (58 vs. 50), though Cheraw has a slight edge in sacks (2 per game to Marlboro County’s 1). Both defenses have yet to allow more than a touchdown in their respective openers, setting the stage for a competitive clash.

Key Players to Watch

• Marlboro County: Tre Blakeney (QB), Troy Hailey (RB), Mikyi Littles (WR), Layton Chavis (Defense)

• Cheraw: Justyn Joint (RB), Kadin Thomas (QB), Nick Gordon (WR), Austin Adams (Defense)

Looking Ahead

Both teams have strong non-league records and are eager to assert themselves as dominant forces in South Carolina football. This matchup, although early in the season, could offer clues about playoff positioning and state rankings as the season progresses. Fans can expect a clash of styles: Marlboro County’s heavy-yardage attack versus Cheraw’s disciplined, high-scoring early bursts.

With both teams undefeated and full of momentum, Friday night’s game promises a thrilling, closely contested encounter that could have ripple effects throughout the remainder of the season.