Even Pender football coach Tom Eanes did not expect a ride like this in 2025.

"I thought we had a chance to have a winning season, but I did not know to what degree," Eanes said. "This group of kids has a different demeanor about them for some reason."

That edge has carried Pender through one of the most surprising seasons in the area. What began with a program record eight straight wins to start the season rolled on Friday, Nov. 14, as the Patriots blasted Hertford County 60-0 in Round 2 of the NCHSAA 3A state playoffs in Burgaw.

Junior standout Zy'Quan Murphy shredded the Bears ' defense for four touchdowns as Pender stormed to a 40-0 halftime lead. Murphy, who now sits at 19 total touchdowns, anchors a four-headed rushing attack that is averaging more than 420 yards and five touc

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