Carolina Recruits Top Games of the Week 11 XFactor: Offense

As we enter the final week of the regular season, every snap matters and playoff seeding still hangs in the balance. Teams across the Carolinas are fighting to secure favorable brackets or keep their postseason dreams alive, and it's the offensive playmakers who will determine how it all unfolds. Expect elite quarterback play, bell-cow running backs carrying the load, and explosive receivers looking to break open tight matchups. With so much on the line, these X-factors aren't just key contributors — they're the difference between extending the season or heading home early.                    Phillips has been the definition of consistency and dominance for North Duplin this season. The senior running back has eclipsed 1,500 rushing yards and found the end zone 23 times, powering one of the most efficient ground attacks in the state. His patience behind the line, combined with his burst through gaps and physical finish, has made him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Week after week, Phillips has been the go-to playmaker — the tone-setter who keeps North Duplin's offense rolling. As the regular season closes, his production and leadership will be the key to how far the Rebels can go in the postseason.     Thompson has been the steady hand guiding Hobbton's offense this season. The senior quarterback leads the team with 10 total touchdowns, showing his ability to make plays both through the air and on the ground. His poise in the pocket and command of the offense have been key to the Wildcats' success, especially in tight games. As Hobbton heads into its regular-season finale with playoff positioning on the line, Thompson's decision-making and playmaking ability will be critical. Expect him to be the X-factor on offense this Friday night — the player who can make the big throws or timely runs to keep his team's momentum alive.     Gillis has quietly become one of the most intriguing junior quarterbacks in the region. Currently a “watchlist” prospect, his poise, arm strength, and ability to extend plays have made him the X-factor for the Pinecrest Patriots' offense. Gillis plays with a calm, composed demeanor — never rattled, even in pressure moments — and his elusiveness allows him to turn broken plays into big gains. With a strong arm capable of hitting every level of the field, he's shown flashes of next-level talent all season long. By the time the offseason rolls around, don't be surprised if Gillis is regarded as one of the top quarterbacks in the area — his ceiling is that high.     Hodges has been the definition of a classic pocket passer for Richmond Senior this season. The senior signal-caller has thrown for 21 touchdowns against just 6 interceptions, showing excellent command of the offense and the ability to make precise throws under pressure. His mechanics and decision-making stand out — he's patient in the pocket, reads defenses well, and delivers the ball with confidence. Hodges has been the steady presence that keeps the Raiders' offense balanced and explosive. As the regular season wraps up, expect him to be the X-factor in helping Richmond Senior close strong and carry momentum into the playoffs.     Mitchell has been the heartbeat of Rocky Mount's offense all season long. The senior athlete leads the team in total touchdowns, using his combination of power, balance, and vision to wear down defenses week after week. Whether lining up in the backfield or making plays in space, Mitchell's physical running style sets the tone early and often. He thrives on contact, breaks tackles consistently, and brings an edge that energizes his teammates. As the regular season comes to a close, Mitchell's ability to dominate on the ground makes him the X-factor for the Gryphons — the kind of player who can carry a team when the game is on the line.     Eatmon delivered a monster performance in his most recent outing, rushing for over 200 yards and 4 touchdowns on fewer than 20 carries — an efficiency that speaks volumes about his explosiveness and vision. The junior running back has been a steady force for Pinecrest all season, capable of breaking long runs or grinding out tough yards between the tackles. His balance and patience allow him to set up blocks perfectly before bursting through lanes. As the Patriots enter the final week of the regular season, Eatmon's playmaking ability and consistency make him the offensive X-factor who can tilt the game in Pinecrest's favor.     Phillips reminded everyone why he's one of the top prospects in the state, regardless of position, with a career-best performance — over 300 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns in last week's win. Since his return to the lineup, the Colts haven't played a close game, and his impact has been undeniable. Phillips combines elite speed, vision, and power, making him nearly impossible to contain once he finds a crease. As Cape Fear prepares for a matchup that will decide the outright conference championship, Phillips stands as the clear X-factor — the player capable of taking over the game and sealing another statement victory for the Colts.     McLean has quickly proven himself to be one of the top freshmen in the state, regardless of position. After the team's starting running back went down for the season, “Mike Mike” stepped in and took full control of the offense — and he hasn't looked back. His combination of speed, vision, and natural playmaking instincts makes him a threat to score from anywhere on the field. Despite his youth, McLean runs with confidence and maturity beyond his years. As the regular season wraps up, expect his explosiveness to be on full display once again, making him the X-factor who can ignite his team's offense when it matters most.

As we enter the final week of the regular season, every snap matters and playoff seeding still hangs in the balance. Teams across the Carolinas are fighting to secure favorable brackets or keep their postseason dreams alive, and it's the offensive playmakers who will determine how it all unfolds. Expect elite quarterback play, bell-cow running backs carrying the load, and explosive receivers looking to break open tight matchups. With so much on the line, these X-factors aren't just key contributors — they're the difference between extending the season or heading home early.