The SouthWest Edgecombe Cougars embarrassed the North Pitt Panthers 44-12 Friday night in Bethel, to remain undefeated in the Eastern Plain Conference.

The No. 3 ranked Cougars scored 24 points in the second quarter to end any doubt about the outcome of the game.

Javon Brown led the Cougars rushing with 16 carries for 148 yards and three touchdowns. Quarterback Chris Ellerbee ran for his first 100-yard game of the season with 9 carries for 115 yards.

The Cougars racked up 410 total yards compared to 158 yards for the Panthers.

“We led 32-0 at halftime and it was pretty much over,” said Cougar Coach Raymond Cobb. “We got a chance to play everybody in the second half. This game was a credit to how well we have been preparing week in and week out.

“They have done a great job.”

The Cougars improved to one of their best records in school history at 9-0.

NE 48, KP 6

The North Edgecombe Warriors scored their highest output in several years and defeated Kipp Pride 48-6 Friday night.

Quintin Higgs led the Warriors rushing with 17 carries for 116 yards and a season-high four touchdowns.

With the game all but decided in the second half, both teams agreed to allow the clock to run.

“I thought we came out taking Kipp Pride lightly until they put a TD on the score board, then we realize we better go to work,” said Warriors coach Danny Ward. “We played without our leader and starting quarterback Tamiyas Pearce, but Marquavis Battle did a great job in his backup role in leading the team. The defense played well again, led by junior linebacker Mario Epps.”

The Warriors will face a big challenge Friday night when they travel to Tar Roanoke Conference defending champions the Weldon Tigers, who are undefeated. The winner will likely win the conference title.

“We will see what we are made of,” Ward said.