The Shadow
CRAIG COUNTY, Va (VR) In a game dripping with local significance and postseason drama, the Bath County Chargers are set to face the Craig County Rockets in the first round of the VHSL Class 1, Region C Playoffs this Friday evening at Craig County High School.
While Bath County enters the matchup as the No. 7 seed, the Chargers hope to channel their tradition of postseason grit as they square off against second-seeded Craig County, a team that has already made history this season.
For years, Bath County has enjoyed dominance over the Rockets, holding a perfect 9-0 record against Craig County since 2015. That changed this fall when the Rockets pulled off a stunning upset, defeating the Chargers and solidifying their transformation into one of the season’s most improved teams. The stakes are now higher than ever as Bath County seeks redemption and a shot at extending their postseason run.
The Chargers began the 2025 campaign with lofty expectations, but the journey to the playoffs has been anything but smooth. An early-season rout at the hands of Buffalo Gap tempered optimism, but Bath County responded with convincing victories over Tygarts Valley (W.Va.), Hancock (Md.), and Eastern Montgomery, signaling the squad’s offensive potential. However, struggles with consistency, particularly in defending against strong ground games and occasional lapses in pass coverage have kept coaches and players alike on their toes.
Central to Bath County’s hopes this week is running back Ethan Bryant, who returned from injury just in time for the playoff push. Bryant’s vision and ability to break tackles have provided a spark for the Chargers’ offense, and his running mates on the offensive line have made his return all the more impactful, routinely opening holes against tough opponents.
First year starting quarterback Hunter Kirby presents another key for Bath County’s upset hopes. Kirby’s development throughout the season has been a highlight for Chargers fans as he has exhibited newfound poise both in the pocket and on the run. A quick decision-maker with an accurate arm, Kirby’s ability to connect with receivers in high pressure situations could be decisive Friday night.
But Craig County will not make it easy. Buoyed by a nearly perfect season with their only loss coming against Narrows, the Rockets boast a dynamic attack led by Noah Paxton and Carter Calfee who average over 100 rushing yards per game while being terrors on defense and forming the backbone of a disciplined and physical Rockets team.
Craig County’s win over Bath County earlier this year was symbolic, a 28-0 shutout, in which the Rockets forced key turnovers and stifled the Chargers’ offensive rhythm, all while sustaining drives and controlling the tempo. Defensive stalwarts like Smith and the ever-present Paxton will once again look to disrupt Bath County’s rhythm, especially with the added advantage of playing at home.
Still, the Chargers’ resilience and playoff pedigree should not be discounted. Historically accustomed to the pressures of postseason play, Bath County’s experienced core will rely on stout defense from its linebackers and an offensive line that prides itself on physicality. If the Chargers can win the battle up front, protect Kirby, and keep Bryant healthy and active, they stand a real chance to upset the Rockets’ Cinderella season.
As Friday night approaches, one thing is certain: When Bath County and Craig County renew their rivalry with everything on the line, the region’s football fans are in for a game to remember.
