DURHAM – Crest High School captured its first state championship in a decade, defeating Hunt High School 31-14 in the NCHSAA 5A state title game at Durham County Stadium on December 12, 2025.

Second-year Crest coach Greg Lloyd returned to his alma mater and delivered a championship in his second season. The Chargers (13-2) built a 24-7 halftime lead behind senior quarterback Ely Hamrick, who accounted for 320 yards of total offense and was named game MVP. Hunt (12-3) fell to 0-2 all-time in state championship games, having previously lost in 2004.

Hamrick, a senior Virginia commit who transferred to Crest mid-season after being displaced by Hurricane Helene while attending A.C. Reynolds, completed 17 of 25 passes for 233 yards while rushing 15 times for 87 yards and two touchdowns. Senior receiver Michael Edwards added 95 rushing yards and two scores on nine carries, plus six receptions for 85 yards.

Hunt sixth-year coach Juan Jackson watched his Warriors strike first when senior quarterback Mez Harris called his own number on a 2-yard touchdown run at the 5:42 mark of the opening quarter. Harris capped a five-play, 37-yard drive after sophomore running back Doryan Jones converted two critical third downs, including a 15-yard run on third-and-13 and an 18-yard gain on third-and-10.

Crest responded with a seven-play, 94-yard touchdown drive that covered 3 minutes and 3 seconds. After Hunt defensive back Javion Hopper intercepted Harris at the Crest 6-yard line, the Chargers faced second-and-15 from their own 1-yard line following a sack by Hunt linebacker Judah Harris. Hamrick then connected with receiver Namajay Thompson for 49 yards to the Crest 50, sparking the comeback. Running back Jason Black rushed for 13 yards on the next play, and Edwards finished the drive with a 6-yard touchdown run after a horse collar tackle penalty moved the ball to the 1-yard line. Carson Grier’s extra point tied the game at 7-7 with 1:29 remaining in the first quarter.

The second quarter belonged to Crest, which scored on all three possessions to seize control. Pregame tensions between the teams carried into the game, with officials calling multiple unsportsmanlike conduct penalties to maintain order. Edwards broke a 35-yard touchdown run on fourth-and-1 from the Hunt 35 to give the Chargers a 14-7 lead at 9:17, finishing a seven-play, 55-yard drive. The Warriors managed only 16 yards on their next possession before punting.

Crest then engineered a 10-play, 66-yard scoring drive that consumed 3 minutes and 51 seconds. Hamrick rushed for 15 yards on second-and-1 to reach Hunt territory, and Black carried for 16 yards on second-and-12 to extend the drive. Hamrick scored from 1 yard out to push the advantage to 21-7 with 2:06 left in the half.

Hunt answered immediately when Harris scrambled out of the pocket and raced 80 yards for a touchdown on the second play of the ensuing drive, cutting the deficit to 21-14 with 1:42 remaining before halftime. Harris had called his own number for the second time, producing the longest run from scrimmage for either team.

Crest used the final 1:36 of the half to drive 79 yards in seven plays, with Hamrick completing a 50-yard pass to receiver D’various Surratt to set up Grier’s 27-yard field goal as time expired. The Chargers took a 24-14 lead into the locker room.

The third quarter featured another methodical Crest scoring drive. The Chargers used 10 plays to cover 80 yards in 5 minutes and 4 seconds, converting four third downs along the way. Hamrick completed a 15-yard pass to receiver Brock Melton on third-and-10, then finished the drive with a 24-yard touchdown run to extend the lead to 31-14 with 9:56 left in the period.

Hunt mounted its best drive of the second half immediately after, advancing 60 yards on 11 plays. Jones rushed for 28 yards on third-and-8, and Harris added a 16-yard run on the next play. The Warriors reached the Crest 22 before Will Doll’s 38-yard field goal attempt missed wide at the 5:10 mark of the third quarter.

The game’s outcome was effectively decided when Crest took over at its own 22 following the missed field goal. The Chargers converted four consecutive third downs and drove to the Hunt 24 before Harris intercepted Hamrick at the Hunt 10-yard line with 7 seconds remaining in the third quarter.

Lloyd’s defense shut out Hunt in the second half, holding the Warriors to just 70 total yards after halftime. Hunt’s offense managed just 10 net rushing yards in the fourth quarter on seven attempts. The Warriors fumbled on their second possession of the period, with Hopper recovering at the Hunt 48. Crest drove to the Hunt 4 before Edwards fumbled, with Hunt defensive back Jake Harris recovering with 1:26 remaining.

Crest held decisive advantages in total offense (555-217), first downs (25-9) and time of possession (30:32-17:28). The Chargers rushed for 322 yards on 47 attempts, averaging 6.9 yards per carry.

Harris finished with 103 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 11 carries for Hunt, while Jones added 100 yards on 16 attempts. Harris completed zero passes on six attempts with one interception, staying true to Hunt’s run-heavy approach that averaged just 10 pass attempts per game during the season.

Black led Crest’s ground game with 119 yards on 19 carries. Thompson caught six passes for 61 yards, and Edwards hauled in six receptions for 85 yards.

Hunt committed 11 penalties for 84 yards, while Crest was flagged 13 times for 130 yards, reflecting the chippy nature of the contest that began with pregame confrontations.

“Tonight was a special night,” Lloyd said. “I’m lucky to have the job that I’ve had this year, the last couple years at a place I love. I couldn’t be more proud to bring home the seventh state championship for Crest High School. It’s just a blessing.”

Top Performers

• Ely Hamrick, Crest: 17-of-25 passing, 233 yards; 15 rushes, 87 yards, 2 TD
• Michael Edwards, Crest: 9 rushes, 95 yards, 2 TD; 6 receptions, 85 yards
• Jason Black, Crest: 19 rushes, 119 yards
• Mez Harris, Hunt: 11 rushes, 103 yards, 2 TD; 1 interception
• Doryan Jones, Hunt: 16 rushes, 100 yards

The 5A championship is a battle of two 12-2 programs, one built on defensive star power and the other on consistent, blue-collar execution and a remarkable turnaround story. The Crest Chargers (12-2) of Boiling Springs are in the title hunt for the 11th time, holding a solid 6-4 record in their previous championship appearances. Crest is synonymous with football excellence in Cleveland County, and the current roster is loaded with the type of Division I talent that makes them a favorite in any matchup.

Head Coach Greg Lloyd, in his second season at Crest with a 22-5 record, has a career mark of 181-86-1 over 21 years of coaching in North Carolina. He's built this team around a dominant defense that features some of the state's most coveted recruits. The Chargers' defense is spearheaded by two elite Shrine Bowl participants: safety D'Various Surratt, an NC State commit, and safety Lyrik Pettis, a Duke commit.

This secondary is one of the best in the state, capable of erasing deep passes and creating turnovers. Surratt and Pettis are four-year varsity players who have been impact performers throughout their careers. Their ability to shut down high-powered offenses has been key to Crest's success through a tough playoff schedule. The defense also features senior linebacker Chris Gunter (6.6 tackles per game), who provides run-stopping ability and pass coverage versatility.

The defensive line, while perhaps less heralded, has been effective with seniors Paxton Dobbins (three-year varsity player), Eli Black (four-year varsity player), and Taveon Whistnant providing pressure and run defense. Crest allows just 12.2 points per game with three shutouts, demonstrating their defensive dominance.

Their offense is built to complement the defense, playing smart, ball-control football while occasionally exploding with big plays from their skilled positions. Senior quarterback Ely Hamrick, a Virginia commit with two years of varsity experience, manages the offense efficiently and has the arm talent to stretch defenses vertically. Senior receiver Michael Edwards (16 total touchdowns) is a three-year varsity player and primary target, while junior Namajay Thompson (56.3 yards per game) provides deep threat capability.

Senior running back Jason Black, despite being just a one-year varsity player, has emerged as a reliable ground threat. The offensive line features four-year varsity player Gavin Ledbetter and sophomore Denarion Hickman, a Gardner-Webb commit. The Chargers average 45.0 points per game, showing their ability to score in bunches when needed.

Lloyd points to a critical regular-season victory over South Point as the team's galvanizing moment, a game that confirmed they could compete with the best teams in their classification. The Chargers' playoff run has been dominant, including victories over Concord (69-6), East Lincoln (31-14), a revenge win over South Point (28-14), and Hickory (39-21).

The J.B. Hunt Warriors (12-2) have navigated a rigorous Eastern schedule under Head Coach Juan Jackson to earn their spot in the final. Jackson, in his sixth season with a 46-21 overall record, has revitalized a program that last appeared in a state final in 2004, when they lost to Concord 27-0. This marks Hunt's return to championship Saturday after a 21-year absence, making this moment particularly special for the Wilson community.

The Warriors finished second in the highly competitive Big East 5A/6A Conference, and their 12-2 overall record is a testament to the growth of the program and their ability to finish strong in the playoffs. After a loss to rival Tarboro (34-17) early in the season and a mid-season defeat to Northern Nash (49-14), Hunt has responded with six straight victories, peaking at precisely the right time.

Hunt's success is rooted in their run game and their ability to sustain drives and grind out difficult victories, often wearing down their opponents in the fourth quarter. Sophomore running back Doryan Jones has been exceptional, rushing for 1,629 yards and 19 touchdowns while averaging over 125 yards per game. Jones's emergence as a sophomore has given Hunt a dynamic playmaker who can break long runs and punish defenses between the tackles.

Junior quarterback Xzayvion "Mez" Harris, the Conference Offensive Player of the Year, manages the offense efficiently and has the dual-threat capability to extend plays with his legs. Senior receiver Jamauris Howard (30.1 yards per game) provides the deep threat, while senior Isaiah Chadwick offers another receiving option and contributes significantly on defense at cornerback.

The offensive line has been the foundation of Hunt's success, creating holes for Jones and protecting Harris in the passing game. Junior tackle Aarion Bryant is an All-Conference selection, while senior center James Gibson is a four-year varsity player who anchors the front.

Defensively, Hunt is led by junior inside linebacker Judah Harris (14.2 tackles per game), who has been all over the field all season. Junior defensive tackle Christopher Dickerson is an All-Conference selection who provides interior pressure and run-stopping ability, while junior Randy James contributes from the defensive end position. Senior cornerback Jamauris Howard (8 interceptions) leads a secondary that has been opportunistic, and senior safety Xzayvion Harris contributes from his free safety position.

Special teams provide another advantage for Hunt, with senior Will Doll serving as kicker and punter. Doll is a three-year varsity player, Conference Special Teams Player of the Year, and Shrine Bowl selection whose consistency in the kicking game has been crucial in close contests. The Warriors average 36.8 points per game while allowing 21.4, with two shutouts demonstrating their defensive capability.

Hunt's playoff journey has been marked by close victories that tested their resolve: a 30-28 win over Eastern Alamance in the first round, a 32-29 thriller over Croatan in the regional final, and a solid 20-7 semifinal victory over Northside-Jacksonville. These close games have prepared them for the championship stage.

The Matchup: Hunt must find a way to protect the ball and establish the line of scrimmage, keeping the ball away from the dynamic Crest safeties. If Hunt's offense can control the clock with Jones and limit Crest's possessions, they have a real shot at the title. Their ground-and-pound approach could neutralize Crest's pass-rushing ability and keep Surratt and Pettis from making game-changing plays.

However, the sheer athleticism and defensive playmaking ability of players like Surratt and Pettis give the Chargers a major advantage. Crest's ability to create turnovers and convert them into points could be the difference. The Chargers will also look to exploit Hunt's defense with Hamrick's arm talent and the speed of their receivers.

This game will likely be a low-scoring affair, decided in the trenches, with the Crest defense potentially tipping the scales in their favor with a late-game interception or forced fumble. Hunt's experience in close games and their momentum from six straight wins gives them confidence, but Crest's star power and championship pedigree make them formidable.

The 69-mile journey from Wilson to Durham represents the final leg of a remarkable season for Hunt, while Crest travels 187 miles from Boiling Springs seeking to add another championship to Cleveland County's rich football tradition. Both communities will be well-represented Saturday night in what promises to be a physical, hard-fought battle for the 5A crown.

J.B. Hunt Warriors (12-2) vs. Crest Chargers (12-2)

December 13 (Sat) at Durham County Memorial Stadium

Kickoff: 8:00 p.m.

In the 4A classification, defending champion Weddington claims the top spot, followed closely by Butler and Grimsley. The Warriors from Weddington are poised to repeat, building on their recent successes and adding additional power through new players on the roster. Butler and Grimsley, perennial powerhouses, are expected to provide fierce competition for the Warriors throughout the season.

Notable entries in the 4A rankings include Independence at number 5, a program with a storied history in North Carolina high school football. East Forsyth and Cardinal Gibbons, ranked 7th and 8th respectively, are also teams to watch, known for their state titles in recent years.

4A Top 15

1. Weddington

2. Butler

3. Grimsley

4. Hough

5. Independence

6. Rolesville

7. East Forsyth

8. Cardinal Gibbons

9. Cleveland

10. Hoggard

11. Mallard Creek

12. Chambers

13. Porter Ridge

14. Myers Park

15. Watauga

Moving to the 3A classification, defending champion Hickory leads the pack, with Seventy-First and Crest rounding out the top three. With much of the roster returning, the Tornadoes are primed for another standout season. Dudley, sitting at number 4, is another program with a strong football tradition that could challenge for the top spot as the season progresses.

The 3A rankings also feature some intriguing teams like West Henderson and AC Reynolds at 5th and 6th, respectively. These mountain region schools could shake up the rankings as the season unfolds.

3A Top 15

1. Hickory

2. Seventy-First

3. Crest

4. Dudley

5. West Henderson

6. AC Reynolds

7. Robinson

8. North Lincoln

9. West Charlotte

10. Havelock

11. Northern Nash

12. Southern Alamance

13. Jacksonville

14. Williams

15. Northwest Cabarrus

In the 2A classification, the Reidsville Rams claim the number one position, followed by Monroe and Forest Hills. Reidsville’s dominance in recent years makes them a favorite to maintain their top ranking. However, traditional powerhouses like Salisbury and Shelby, ranked 4th and 5th, are sure to provide stiff competition.

The 2A rankings also include some programs on the rise, such as Bunker Hill and Burns at 7th and 8th. These teams could be poised for breakout seasons that catapult them up the rankings.

2A Top 15

1. Reidsville

2. Monroe

3. Forest Hills

4. Salisbury

5. Shelby

6. Clinton

7. Bunker Hill

8. Burns

9. Randleman

10. Northeastern

11. West Lincoln

12. Brevard

13. Lincolnton

14. Whiteville

15. CS Davidson

Finally, in the 1A classification, Mount Airy stands atop the rankings, with Eastern Randolph and Tarboro close behind. Even with a new coaching staff, Mount Airy’s returning roster is setting high expectations for the Granite Bears this season. Tarboro, a consistent force in 1A football and last year’s runner-up, will be looking to climb from their 3rd place preseason ranking.

The 1A rankings also feature some intriguing small-school programs like Robbinsville and Swain County at 4th and 5th. These mountain schools have a history of punching above their weight and could make significant moves in the rankings.

1A Top 15

1. Mount Airy

2. Eastern Randolph

3. Tarboro

4. Robbinsville

5. Swain County

6. North Rowan

7. Mountain Heritage

8. Thomasville

9. Murphy

10. West Columbus

11. Hayesville

12. Wilson Prep

13. Starmount

14. East Bladen

15. Draughn

As with any preseason rankings, these are based on a mix of expectations and roster retention. The true test will come when teams take the field this fall. Fans can expect intense rivalries, upset victories, and emerging stars as the season unfolds across all four classifications.

Carolina Gridiron’s rankings provide a starting point for discussions and debates among high school football enthusiasts across the state. As teams begin their seasons this week, these rankings will serve as motivation for some and a target for others.

The diversity of schools represented in these rankings showcases the depth and quality of high school football across North Carolina. From large urban schools to small rural programs, the passion for football runs deep in the Old North State.

As the season approaches, all eyes will be on these top-ranked teams to see if they can live up to their preseason billing. But in high school football, anything can happen, and that’s what makes the upcoming season so exciting for players, coaches, and fans alike.

As the NCHSAA football playoffs head into the fourth round, anticipation is high for thrilling matchups and historic achievements. Among the standout narratives is Tarboro's remarkable 16th consecutive post-Thanksgiving appearance, the longest streak in North Carolina. The Vikings, eyeing an eighth straight fourth-round presence, have been dominant in the East Regional, clinching the title six years in a row.

In a clash of resilience and ambition, Tarboro faces East Bladen, the No. 13 seed, marking their deepest playoff run since 2009. Wilson Prep, making only its second playoff appearance, is set for a post-Thanksgiving debut, while West Columbus looks to build on last year's near miss, determined to break through the fourth round after a hiatus since 1985.

Robbinsville, a familiar face in the fourth round with six appearances in the last decade, seeks redemption after falling short in the third round last season. North Rowan, making its first fourth-round appearance since 1992, aims to recapture the glory of its 1992 state runner-up finish.

In the 2A bracket, Clinton and Nash Central are making significant playoff strides, with Clinton making its first fourth-round appearance since 2019, and Nash Central celebrating its inaugural entry into the round. Whiteville, back after a 1987 2A Championship, showcases their resilience in the 1A Classification, while Northeastern returns for the seventh time since 2010.

The 3A bracket sees perennial contenders Havelock and Crest making their mark once again, with Havelock on its 14th fourth-round appearance and Crest in its 15th. Southern Alamance is set for its fourth-round debut, adding an element of unpredictability to the mix.

In the 4A bracket, Rolesville continues its dominance with a fourth consecutive appearance, while Cardinal Gibbons looks for redemption after last year's second-round exit. Butler, making its seventh fourth-round appearance, faces Independence, marking the Patriots' return after a hiatus since 2009.

The excitement is further amplified by the notable high-scoring encounters in the third round, setting the stage for a gripping fourth round. Notably, the clash between Nash Central and Hertford County produced a record-breaking combined score, securing its place in the NCHSAA Football Record Book.

As fans gear up for the upcoming matchups, the stage is set for a weekend of thrilling football action, where history will be made, and teams will battle for a coveted spot in the Regional Finals.

In the ever-evolving landscape of North Carolina high school football, Week 4 brings forth an intriguing mix of stability and dynamic change as the Carolina Gridiron rankings for all four classifications are revealed. This comprehensive report delves into the updated standings and highlights any notable surges or shifts since Week 3.

4A Classification: Grimsley Maintains Control, Two Groups of Mavericks in Top Spots

In the 4A classification, Grimsley continues to exert its dominance, securing the top spot with an impressive 3-0 record. While Grimsley maintained its position with authority, Mallard Creek, Weddington, and East Forsyth remain right on their heels. Cleveland makes their first appearance of the season and Marvin Ridge joins the Top 15 after an impressive last-minute win over Ardrey Kell.

The Week 4 rankings for the 4A classification are as follows:

1. Grimsley
2. Mallard Creek
3. Weddington
4. East Forsyth
5. Cardinal Gibbons
6. Hough
7. Butler
8. Charlotte Catholic
9. New Bern
10. Chambers
11. Rolesville
12. Mooresville
13. Marvin Ridge
14. West Forsyth
15. Cleveland

3A Classification: Crest Maintains Top Spot, West Charlotte Surges

Transitioning to the 3A classification, Crest continues to hold the pole position, showcasing their strength with a 3-0 record. Both the Chargers and county rival Kings Mountain fended off ranked 2A in-county opponents this past Friday. Meanwhile, West Charlotte made a significant move, advancing from the 10th spot in Week 3 to a formidable 7th place in Week 4 after a win over Charlotte rival Independence.

The Week 4 rankings for the 3A classification are as follows:

1. Crest
2. Kings Mountain
3. Dudley
4. Northern Nash
5. East Lincoln
6. Seventy-First
7. West Charlotte
8. Havelock
9. Eastern Guilford
10. Eastern Alamance
11. AC Reynolds
12. South Point
13. Scotland
14. Western Alamance
15. Northwest Cabarrus

2A Classification: Reidsville Leads, Clinton and Salisbury Impress

In the 2A classification, Reidsville maintains its stronghold at the top, demonstrating consistency with a 3-0 record. Clinton and Salisbury, however, have made significant strides, with Clinton securing the 2nd spot and Salisbury firmly planting itself in 3rd place after both teams had impressive wins this past week. The Princeton Bulldogs climbed into the rankings this week after an impressive 3-0 start to the season.

The Week 4 rankings for the 2A classification are as follows:

1. Reidsville
2. Clinton
3. Salisbury
4. Northeastern
5. East Duplin
6. Monroe
7. Forest Hills
8. Whiteville
9. Bunker Hill
10. Chase
11. Edenton Holmes
12. Nash Central
13. Burns
14. Princeton
15. Shelby

1A Classification: Mount Airy Leads, Starmount Shines

Lastly, in the 1A classification, Mount Airy maintains its top-tier status with an unblemished 3-0 record while most of the top five remain the same. Starmount is the standout mover this week, rising from 13th place in Week 3 to a top ten spot.

The Week 4 rankings for the 1A classification are as follows:

1. Mount Airy
2. Tarboro
3. Robbinsville
4. Swain
5. Mitchell
6. Eastern Randolph
7. Andrews
8. Draughn
9. Thomasville
10. Starmount
11. Hayesville
12. Murphy
13. North Rowan
14. Northampton
15. Polk

As the North Carolina high school football season unfolds, these rankings serve as a compass, guiding us through the intricate web of competition. The remarkable jumps by various teams illustrate the dynamic nature of the sport, where dedication and talent can yield substantial rewards. With each passing week, the anticipation of electrifying matchups and unforeseen developments on the gridiron continues to build, making the high school football season an exhilarating journey for players and fans alike.