Sport: Football Category: Match Previews

Rye Cove prepares for season opener against Lord Botetourt on Saturday

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 21, 2026, 2:43 AM

Last updated Aug 21, 2026

Rye Cove prepares for season opener against Lord Botetourt on Saturday

Summary

The Rye Cove Eagles are set to begin their football season on Saturday night against Lord Botetourt at Emory & Henry, kick-off scheduled for 7 p.m. After an 11-4 season and a Region 1D title in 2025, the Eagles face a rebuilding year with 12 seniors graduating. Key players, including West Virginia University commit Ethan Lawson, emphasize the importance of rigorous training and challenging matchups against larger schools in their development. Head coach Gary Collier has praised the team's hard work and commitment, which has enhanced their physical capabilities as they approach their first game of the season.

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Key Details

•Rye Cove finished last season 11-4 and as VHSL Class 1 state runner-up.
•The Eagles lost 12 seniors to graduation, signaling a rebuilding effort.
•Ethan Lawson is a key player, committed to West Virginia University.
•Head coach Gary Collier highlights the team's increased strength and commitment.
•The season opener against Lord Botetourt is set for Saturday at 7 p.m.

Latest Updates

2:43 AMYahoo Sports — Countdown to Kickoff: Rye Cove looking to repeat the success they had in 2025

What they're saying

"
DUFFIELD, Va. (WJHL) — In today’s Countdown to Kickoff, we check in on another team preparing to get their season started this weekend. The Rye Cove Eagles were one of the biggest surprises of last season. They put together an impressive 11-4 campaign, captured the Region 1D title, and finished as the VHSL Class 1 […]
— Yahoo Sports

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