The Patriots (5-3) are coming off a win over West Ashley while the Trojans (4-4) are coming off a loss to Goose Creek.

James Island’s top weapon this season is 6-3, 205-pound quarterback Justin Bolus, who lined up as a fullback and tight end before inheriting the QB position when Bo Patterson graduated in the spring. Bolus is a dangerous rusher and has a good enough arm to keep a defense honest.

However, he didn’t play in James Island’s last two games due to an injury. The Trojans lost both contests.

The Bolus kid is good,” Fort Dorchester coach Steve LaPrad said. “He is a Shrine Bowl athlete and last year they played him on both sides of the ball against us. But even if he doesn’t play, they will be ready. They have played some good teams this year and they always have good athletes.”

The Trojans put up a lot of points in their first three games of the season, but then their scoring tapered off midway through the season.

James Island had several experienced players return on defense this year, including five starters. The team’s line-backing corps is solid and its secondary is not without experience.

The Trojans have held half of their opponents to 14 points or less. The team’s biggest win so far this year is a victory over Beaufort on Sept. 30.

The Patriots also have a win over the Eagles. Early in the season Fort Dorchester put up impressive passing stats, but the last few games they have relied more on the run.

Last week, the Patriots rushed 48 times for 212 yards while passing 11 times for six completions and 65 yards. Receiver Devron Glenn led the team in rushing with 86 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries.

Delton Wells led the Patriot defense with 12 tackles including 1.5 for a loss and five unassisted. Bryce Tapscott had 10 including five unassisted and was in on a tackle for a loss. Rashad Smith broke up six pass attempts for the Pats in the game.

Contact Roger Lee @ 873-9424 ext. 213 or rlee@journalscene.com