So far in Region 5-5A, defending  Class 5ALower State champion River Bluff and White Knoll have emerged as the top contenders.

Both teams posted victories Wednesday. The Gators rolled past Dutch Fork 72-9 in Irmo in its region opener while the Timberwolves beat Chapin 38-30 at home to improve to 2-0.  

White Knoll scored 3 consecutive matches to take command of the contest. The Eagles rallied to within 32-30, but Nick Taiste was awarded his final match at 285 by forfeit to close out the Timberwolves’ 1st win over Chapin since it moved up to Class 5A.

The Eagles face River Bluff next week, while White Knoll meets Dutch Fork. Should both the Gators and Timberwolves win, their Jan. 29 matchup in Lexington will decide the Region 5-5A title.