The Shadow
COVINGTON, Va. (VR) – On Thursday night, fans got a first look at what the Alleghany Cougar football program has in store for 2025. Hosting the defending 2024 state champion Graham G-Men, the Cougars went toe-to-toe in a hard-fought scrimmage that saw each team find the end zone once. Alleghany’s lone touchdown came courtesy of playmaker Desmond Jordan, who once again proved he can make things happen in any situation. Senior leader Carter Nicely continued to set the tone for the program with his steady leadership and commitment to doing what’s right both on and off the field. Another bright spot was Austin Greene, who stepped up with solid play on both sides of the ball.
This season, Alleghany will be running the 3-3-5 defense, designed to help contain opponents’ passing attacks while keeping pressure on the quarterback. Head Coach Will Fields noted the need for young players to quickly adapt to their roles within the system, telling The Virginian Review, “We have some young guys that need to grow into their roles quickly.”
Moving forward, Alleghany will need to follow Nicely’s example, keeping their composure and showing good sportsmanship. Thursday’s game saw tensions rise, and if those reactions continue into the season, the consequences could be costly. Officiating didn’t help matters, as several missed calls only fueled frustration on both sides. Offensively, the Cougars struggled to find consistent production, with limited gains in both yards and downs. The lineup was also missing key pieces—Brycen Griffith remains sidelined from a winter injury, Mason Hale was out, and Persinger was seen battling back pain.
For the second straight year, a Cougar scrimmage ended early due to unsportsmanlike conduct across the board. With plenty of talent on the roster, Alleghany’s focus now shifts to discipline, execution, and getting healthy before the season officially begins.
The Cougars will travel to Emory & Henry next Friday to take on Union.
