Ross to Copper: Playmaker to Playmaker
In a season that can best be described as a learning curve for the Kinston Vikings, who are currently 3-4 in one of North Carolina's toughest conferences, the emergence of a dynamic quarterback-wide receiver duo has been a silver lining. Senior quarterback Qurron Ross and sophomore wide receiver Tyreek Copper have been the offensive linchpins, particularly impressive given the team's youthful roster and challenging schedule against powerhouse, run-first style teams like East Duplin, Wallace Rose Hill, Southwest Onslow, and James Kenan.
Ross, who is on his final lap as a Viking, has been nothing short of spectacular, currently ranking 6th in 2A in passing yards. His experience is evident in his masterful control on the field, accumulating over 1300 passing yards so far.
Copper, on the other hand, has shown exponential growth since his freshman year. Starting his high school career with 34 catches for 339 yards and 4 touchdowns, averaging 10 yards a catch, Copper has elevated his game remarkably in just seven games this season. He has 32 catches for 629 yards and 7 touchdowns, averaging an impressive 19.7 yards per catch. This performance has catapulted him to 5th in 2A in receiving yards.
"I trust him to get me the ball in the clutch and the best spots possible, and he trusts me to make plays every time," Copper remarked.
The growth in Copper's game is not just in the numbers but also in his ability to deliver in high-stakes situations. This was evident in the Vikings' clash against Greene Central, where Ross and Copper connected for three explosive touchdown passes. Copper amassed 147 yards from six catches in that game, and Ross tallied 242 passing yards. Their on-field chemistry has not only been a spectacle but also a strategic advantage, creating opportunities for other Vikings' receivers like A.C. Simmons, Jemear Flowers, Devin Holloway, and Jeremiah Hart.
"When you have two playmakers like that, and they have a unique connection and they can kinda read each other's mind... that’s huge for us offensively," said Coach Ryan Gieselman, encapsulating the essence of Ross and Copper's partnership.
As the Vikings navigate a season filled with challenges, the Ross-Copper tandem offers a glimmer of hope and excitement. Their story is not just about impressive statistics; it's a narrative of senior leadership harmonizing with sophomore potential, setting the stage for not just a memorable season but perhaps a lasting legacy in Kinston football history.
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