Preview: Freedom-Shelby to kick off prep football season Wednesday

WEDNESDAY’S MATCHUP

(records are from 2017)

Morganton Freedom (7-5) at Shelby (10-2), 7:30 p.m.: This game was moved ahead two days to avoid a conflict with the American Legion World Series, which is being played at Shelby High.

The host Golden Lions are a 2A state title contender, despite losing their top offensive and defensive players from 2017. Quarterback Isaiah Bess could be among the area’s top juniors at his position and was named most valuable player at the Cam Newton Seven-on-Seven Challenge.

Shelby’s strong defense will be tested by a strong Freedom offense, led by quarterback Jayden Burchfield and running back C.J. Hayden. Burchfield passed for more than 3,200 yards last season.

This story was originally published August 14, 2018 at 2:52 PM.