The Greyhounds enter at 3-5, but their record doesn’t tell the full story. An 0-4 start stalled their season as the offense struggled to score. After a 21-3 loss to West Valley, everything changed; they’ve since scored 111 points after managing just 30 in their first four games.

Quarterback Conner Stewart and running back Nicholas Neville have ignited the offense. Establishing the run has opened the passing game for Stewart, forcing defenses to stack the box. Pullman is coming off a 28-13 win over Clarkston, a game that was never in doubt.

Stewart’s connection with receiver Ramsey Itani has fueled the passing attack. Though not the biggest target, Itani’s speed and precise route-running make him difficult to cover. If the Greyhounds want to exploit Riverside’s weak secondary, getting the ball to Itani will be key.

Head coach Kevin Agnew stresses weekly improvement and staying focused on being “1-0” each week. His approach has paid off as Pullman continues to build momentum.

Riverside, sitting at 2-6, has struggled to find consistency. Aside from a 53-0 win over winless Medical Lake, the Rams have failed to put together back-to-back victories.

While the Rams are out of playoff contention, the Greyhounds still have a shot but they’ll need some help. Their early-season struggles left little margin for error, and Friday night’s game could determine whether their late surge pays off.

Pullman Greyhounds take on the Riverside Rams at 7 p.m. Oct. 31 at Pullman High School.