SYLVESTER, Ga. (WALB) — The Worth County Rams host the Cairo Syrupmakers Friday night in their first regular-season matchup since 2015.

Worth County has not lost a football game since Nov. 29, 2024. Since that loss, the Rams have won 16 straight games and won a state title. Cairo enters the game fresh off a region title.

Series history

Cairo and Worth County have faced off over 40 times. Cairo leads the series 30-12.

Worth County coach Jeff Hammond said he schedules opponents like Cairo to prepare his team for region and state competition.

“I think we’re very similar in stature. And I’ve always liked early in the season to schedule someone really good just to get us prepared in our region and our state things and just play someone close to us,” Hammond said.

The two teams have also played each other in the preseason over the past two years. Cairo wide receiver Bryian Duncan described the rivalry as contentious.

“I think it’s pretty much beef. And I’d say at the padded camps too because they be at our padded camps so I’d say there’s a lot of beef between us and them,” Duncan said.

Quarterbacks and playmakers

Worth County returns four-year starting quarterback Lyndon Worthy. Cairo coach David Coleman acknowledged Worthy’s strong passing ability.

“They probably have one of the best passers in the game right now in our state,” Coleman said.

Hammond said his focus with Worthy is maintaining consistency.

“We’re past the point of certain things, now it’s my job just to make sure he doesn’t create bad habits,” Hammond said.

Cairo quarterback Bryce Puckett is supported by West Virginia commit Bryian Duncan, who draws double teams. That has opened opportunities for running backs La’Derrick Perkins and Xiquavian Teal, who combined for more than 200 rushing yards and three touchdowns in Week 1.

“Yeah. I’d say it helps a lot. It takes a lot of stress off me and it gives a chance to show I’m not the only one who can do stuff, everybody else can too,” Duncan said.

Hammond said Cairo’s team reminds him of Worth County’s squad from last season.

“They’re hungry, they kind of remind me of the ball club I had last year. This is not going to be a team that lays down for us. We’re going to have to play at a high level if you want a chance,” Hammond said.

The game kicks off at 7:30 at Milt Miller Field in Sylvester.

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