Matt Vines
EAST POINT – ‘Claiborne Week’ feels a touch different than other weeks on the Riverdale Academy football schedule.

The Rebels vs. Rebels matchup takes on a life of its own as Claiborne Academy visits Riverdale on Friday at 7 p.m.

The typical rivalry adages like “throw out the records” apply.

But for a Riverdale (1-3) bunch that’s been beset by injuries, coming into this game off a bye week is a chance to start anew.

“This is definitely a ‘want to’ win game for us,” said Riverdale coach Nathan Edie. “Claiborne Week is always a little more intense around the school.”

Because of the bye week, it’s almost like ‘Claiborne Week’ was extended to two weeks as Riverdale honed in on its rivals in the extra time.

But the bye week also allowed Riverdale to focus on themselves and how to right its own ship. Aside from a 54-20 win against Union Christian, the Rebels have lost their three games by an average of 30 points.

“We definitely healed up a lot of bumps and bruises,” Edie said of a small roster that puts Riverdale at a disadvantage even when fully healthy. “I think our focus on our assignments was something we got better at this week.

“We’re learning different formations. The bye week came at a perfect time because we needed to heal and to regroup. Hopefully it helped the boys focus in on what they need to do the rest of the season to be successful.”

Riverdale will still be without quarterback/linebacker Ashton Almond, who Edie said doesn’t have a timetable for his return.

Almond was the leading rusher, passer and tackler in the season opener.

Kaidyn Williams has performed admirably under center, especially with his legs as he has the ability to score from anywhere on the field.

Williams gained a majority of Riverdale’s 222 rushing yards in a 42-6 loss to Porter’s Chapel in the last contest, and the Rebels hung tough for more than two quarters trailing 14-6 early in the third.

Riverdale used the bye week to add other facets to the offense.

Claiborne Academy (3-1) enters the contest with three convincing wins under its belt, the latest being a 68-18 whipping of Tensas Academy, marking the third time that Claiborne has eclipsed 40 points.

Running back Dylan Buckner and quarterback Kyler Monk did much of the heavy lifting. Buckner had 157 rushing yards and three touchdowns with Monk adding 142 rushing yards and two scores while throwing for 89 yards and another two scores.

While Claiborne isn’t invincible – River Oaks ran away with a 50-8 win – these Rebels can put up points in a hurry.

“First off, you have to acknowledge their athleticism,” Edie said. “They are quick to the ball on defense, and offensively athletic enough to get to all their blocks at the second level.

“They make plays in space on offense, and we’re going to have to keep them contained and not give up any big plays.”