CHAPEL HILL – On a chilly December evening that began with rain but ended in celebration, the Grimsley Whirlies secured their second state championship in program history, defeating the Rolesville Rams 35-23 in the NCHSAA 4A title game. The victory marks a triumphant return to the pinnacle for Grimsley, who last claimed the crown during the COVID-shortened 2020-21 season.

Under the leadership of head coach Darryl Brown, the Whirlies (16-0) established their dominance early, building a two-touchdown lead in the first quarter and never relinquishing control, though Rolesville kept the outcome in doubt until the final period. The Whirlies' control was evident in the final statistics, as they accumulated 327 yards of total offense.

Game MVP Faizon Brandon directed the Whirlies' dynamic offense, striking quickly in the 46-degree weather at Kenan Stadium. Brandon, who finished an efficient 9-of-13 for 182 yards, connected with Khyan Battle for a 20-yard touchdown pass midway through the first quarter, setting the tone for what would become a masterful offensive performance.

The momentum continued to build as Battle, showcasing his versatility with 48 yards on punt returns, set up excellent field position. Offensive MOP Mitchell Summers, who proved to be a constant thorn in the Rams' side with 126 yards on 26 carries, needed just three plays to find the end zone, pushing the lead to 14-0.

Rolesville (14-2) refused to go quietly. The Rams' offense, which had struggled with ball control early, found its rhythm in the second quarter when quarterback Braden Atkinson connected with AJ Roberts on a spectacular 43-yard touchdown strike, breathing new life into their title hopes. Atkinson, who earned Rolesville's Offensive MOP honors, would finish with 298 yards passing and three touchdowns despite facing constant pressure.

The game's pivotal sequence came late in the second quarter. After Grimsley failed on a fourth-down attempt in their own territory, the defense immediately responded with an interception, swinging momentum back to the Whirlies. Summers capitalized moments later, breaking free for a 44-yard touchdown run that pushed the lead back to two scores.

The Rams showed their resilience, answering with a nine-yard touchdown pass from Atkinson to Jack McHugh just before halftime, keeping the game within reach at 21-14. Rolesville's Defensive MOP Xavier Lewis led all tacklers with 12 stops, including a sack, helping keep his team within striking distance.

The third quarter became a defensive struggle, with both teams trading possessions until Rolesville's Riley Daniels connected on a 23-yard field goal to narrow the gap to 21-17. However, the fourth quarter belonged entirely to Grimsley, with Defensive MOP Bryce Davis leading a fierce pass rush that recorded three of the team's six sacks.

Brandon, showcasing both his arm and legs, orchestrated two decisive scoring drives. First, he called his own number on a one-yard quarterback sneak to extend the lead. Then, with just over four minutes remaining, he delivered the knockout blow, finding Hudson Cooper streaking down the field for a 63-yard touchdown pass that essentially sealed the championship.

For Rolesville, Atkinson showed tremendous poise in defeat, finding success with multiple receivers as Gavin Waddell led all pass-catchers with seven receptions for 112 yards and a touchdown. The Rams' ground game, however, struggled to find consistent success against a stout Grimsley defensive front that limited them to just 38 rushing yards.

As the final seconds ticked away and the celebration began, the Whirlies' journey from their early-season determination to their late-December triumph was complete. For Coach Brown and his squad, the 2024 state championship trophy represents not just a single game's victory, but the culmination of a season's worth of dedication, resilience, and unwavering pursuit of excellence.

Two powerhouse programs are set to collide Friday night in Kenan Stadium as the Grimsley Whirlies (15-0) and the Rolesville Rams (14-1) meet in the 2024 NCHSAA 4A State Championship. These two familiar foes faced off earlier this season, with Grimsley claiming a 35-20 victory in late August. However, months have passed, and both teams have grown stronger, setting the stage for an epic rematch under the Friday night lights.

The Season So Far: Two Juggernauts

Grimsley, the top-ranked team in North Carolina, has been nothing short of dominant this season. The Whirlies boast a perfect 15-0 record, outscoring opponents 704-167. They’ve averaged a staggering 46.9 points per game while holding opposing offenses to just over 11 points per contest.

Rolesville, despite an early stumble against Grimsley, has been relentless ever since, rattling off 14 consecutive wins. The Rams are averaging an impressive 48.4 points per game and have scored 726 points overall this season, showcasing a potent aerial attack led by senior quarterback Braden Atkinson.

Both teams are battle-tested after deep playoff runs, with Rolesville overcoming perennial contenders like Cleveland and Cardinal Gibbons, while Grimsley edged defending champion Weddington and survived a tough contest against Hough.

Earlier Matchup: Grimsley 35, Rolesville 20

Their August clash feels like ancient history, but it provides insight into this high-stakes rematch. Grimsley’s dominant defense and balanced offense proved too much for Rolesville in that game. Senior running back Mitchell Summers exploded for 147 yards and 2 touchdowns, while quarterback Faizon Brandon added 175 passing yards and a touchdown through the air.

For Rolesville, Atkinson threw for 241 yards and 2 touchdowns, but turnovers and missed opportunities plagued the Rams. Since then, Rolesville’s offense has improved significantly, becoming more efficient and dangerous—qualities that will make this rematch far more competitive.

Key Players to Watch

Grimsley Whirlies:

- Mitchell Summers (RB): The workhorse of Grimsley’s offense, Summers has rushed for 2,207 yards this season, averaging 147.1 yards per game. His physical running style and ability to break big plays will be pivotal in controlling the tempo.

- Faizon Brandon (QB): The junior quarterback has been incredibly efficient, completing 77% of his passes for 2,632 yards and 33 touchdowns with just one interception all season.

- Bryce Davis (DL): On defense, senior Bryce Davis is a game-wrecker, averaging 7.8 tackles per game and leading the team with 17 sacks.

Rolesville Rams:

- Braden Atkinson (QB): Atkinson has had a stellar season, throwing for 3,627 yards and 50 touchdowns. His arm strength and chemistry with his receivers make him a constant threat.

- Gavin Waddell (WR): Waddell has been Atkinson’s go-to target, hauling in 58 catches for 921 yards and 11 touchdowns. His ability to stretch the field will challenge Grimsley’s secondary.

- Devon Thomas (RB): Thomas provides balance to the Rams’ offense, rushing for 797 yards and 16 touchdowns this season.

Matchups to Watch

1. Grimsley’s Ground Game vs. Rolesville’s Defense

Grimsley has leaned heavily on its rushing attack, averaging 245.9 rushing yards per game. Summers, alongside Brandon’s dual-threat ability, will look to test Rolesville’s defensive front, which has struggled at times against elite rushing teams.

2. Rolesville’s Passing Attack vs. Grimsley’s Secondary

The Rams’ aerial assault, led by Atkinson, averages 249.5 passing yards per game. Rolesville boasts a trio of talented receivers, including Waddell and Jalen Alford (812 yards, 16 TDs). Grimsley’s secondary, led by Kaden Catoe (11 touchdowns on offense, key contributor on defense), must limit big plays.

3. Turnover Battle

Both teams have thrived by forcing turnovers this season. Grimsley’s defense has tallied 10 interceptions, while Rolesville’s opportunistic secondary has recorded 9 picks. With so much talent on the field, a single turnover could swing the momentum.

Coaching and Adjustments

The rematch adds another layer of intrigue. Grimsley’s coaching staff, led by Coach Darryl Brown, has excelled at making adjustments all season. They’ll likely stick to their winning formula: a heavy dose of Summers on the ground and an opportunistic defense.

For Rolesville, Coach Martin Samek knows his team needs to start fast and limit mistakes. The Rams’ improved offensive efficiency since their Week 2 loss will give them confidence heading into this game.

What’s at Stake

For Grimsley, a win would cap off a perfect 16-0 season and secure their second state title in five years. The Whirlies are hungry to add to their championship legacy and prove they’re the best team in North Carolina.

Rolesville, on the other hand, seeks redemption. After falling short in past championship appearances, the Rams are determined to bring home their first-ever state title. A victory over Grimsley would avenge their earlier loss and cement Rolesville’s place as a top program in the state.

Final Thoughts

This championship showdown promises to be a classic. Grimsley’s balanced attack and elite defense will face its toughest test yet against Rolesville’s explosive offense. While Grimsley won their earlier matchup, expect a much closer contest this time.

Kickoff is set for Friday night at 7 PM. With the 4A title on the line, two of North Carolina’s best will leave it all on the field in pursuit of glory. Will Grimsley complete their perfect season, or will Rolesville rewrite the script?

The North Carolina High School Athletic Association's regional finals delivered a night of intense football, with sixteen teams battling for state championship berths across four classifications, setting the stage for next week's ultimate showdown.

In the most decisive performance of the evening, top-seeded Tarboro dominated Wilson Prep, routing the newcomers 59-6 in the 1A East Regional Final. The Vikings continued their playoff momentum, having already scored 176 points in their previous three postseason games, securing their eighth consecutive regional championship.

The 1A West Regional Final saw fifth-seeded Corvian continuing its Cinderella run, defeating Mountain Heritage 28-19. This comes on the heels of their stunning upset of Mount Airy, which ended the Granite Bears' remarkable 43-game winning streak – the fifth-longest active streak in the nation.

In the 2A East Regional, top-seeded Northeastern maintained its strong form, defeating Whiteville 24-14. The team successfully avenged last year's regional final loss and will now advance to the state championship game for the first time since 2019. Standing opposite of the Eagles will be the Monroe Redhawks, who took down Brevard in convincing fashion.

The 3A East Regional Final witnessed Seventy-First emphatically defeating Jacksonville 43-7, a remarkable turnaround for a team that was the twelfth seed. In a rematch of the 1986 4A championship, the team facing Seventy-First will be the West Charlotte Lions, who took down the defending state champion Hickory Red Tornadoes on the road.

The 4A East Regional Final provided perhaps the most competitive matchup, with fifth-seeded Rolesville edging Cardinal Gibbons 38-31. This victory continues Rolesville's playoff magic, following their earlier upset of top-seeded Cleveland.

The 4A West Regional was a rematch of the 2022 regional final between Grimsley and Weddington, a game which the Whirlies won by a single point. The Warriors looked poised to return the favor, taking a 10-0 lead into the half. But Grimsley came roaring to life in the second half, putting up thirty-five points and making it back to the title game for the fourth time in school history.

These regional final results set up an exciting state championship weekend. Grimsley and Rolesville will clash in the 4A title game, Seventy-First and West Charlotte will battle in the 3A contest, Tarboro and Corvian will fight for 1A supremacy, and Northeastern and Monroe will compete for the 2A crown.

The championships will be held December 20-21 at Kenan Memorial Stadium and Carter-Finley Stadium, with Kenan Stadium hosting its 83rd and 84th state championship games in its historic football venue.

Regional Final Scores

1A East: (1) Tarboro def. (3) Wilson Prep, 59-6
1A West: (5) Corvian def. (2) Mountain Heritage, 28-19
2A East: (1) Northeastern def. (2) Whiteville, 24-14
2A West: (3) Monroe def. (9) Brevard, 41-15
3A East: (2) Seventy-First def. (12) Jacksonville, 43-7
3A West: (8) West Charlotte def. (3) Hickory, 36-20
4A East: (5) Rolesville def. (2) Cardinal Gibbons, 38-31
4A West: (1) Grimsley def. (2) Weddington, 35-23

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.

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. 

New Bern struck first with a six-play, sixty-four-yard drive, all on the ground. Senior running back Chamir Wright capped off the drive with a twenty-two tard scamper around the left side of the line. The Bears looked to try and put the game away early after No’Tavien Green wrestled a pass from a Grimsley receiver and returned the interception into Whirlies territory. Aronne Herring punched it in five plays later to give New Bern a 13-0 lead.

A ninety-eight-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by Terrell Anderson got the Grimsley on their feet and the Whirlies defense stepped up on the next drive, stopping the Bears for the first time on the evening. A five-play, fifty-one-yard drive, finished off with a thirty-yard Ryan Stephens rushing touchdown gave the Whirlies their first lead of the night. The lead was short-lived, though, as New Bern’s Chamir Wright found the end zone a second time, and the New Bern defense held on a fourth down to end the half.

After forcing a three-and-out to start the second half, Aronne Herring exploded on the next play, racing sixty-six yards for the score. Just like the first half, when it looked like New Bern was poised to take a three-score lead, the Grimsley defense stepped up again, forcing a fumble on a fourth down and returning into New Bern territory. Mitchell Summers’s six-yard score made it a one-score game going into the final quarter.

The fourth quarter began with a bang as New Bern quarterback Damaree Tucker ran the option keeper for a twenty-three-yard touchdown. In what seemed to be a pattern on the evening, the Bears were knocking on the door for a score again, but the Grimsley defense stuffed New Bern at the one-yard line. The Whirlies were ninety-nine yards away from the end zone, but undeterred. When Terrell Anderson got behind the New Bern defense and hauled in the Ryan Stephens pass, the junior receiver raced eighty-five yards for the score, keeping the Whirlies fans on the edge of their seats. New Bern had the final say, a thirty-six-yard score by Bears quarterback Tucker, his second of the night.

MVP – No'Tavien Green

Grimsley Def. MOP – Keshaun Jones

Grimsley Off. MOP – #22 Mitchell Summers

New Bern Def. MOP – KJ Sampson

New Bern Off. MOP – Aronne Herring

CHAPEL HILL – The Grimsley Whirlies defense came to play, forcing four turnovers and limiting Cardinal Gibbons to 250 yards of total offense on their way to a 28-8 victory in the 4A State Championship Game. The Whirlies collected the program’s first State Championship since the name of the school changed from Greensboro High to Grimsley in 1962.

In what appeared to settle into a defensive struggle in the early going, the game’s Most Valuable Player, as selected by the media, was Grimsley QB Alonza Barnett who opened the scoring on a five-yard touchdown run with 1:27 to go in the opening quarter. Barnett’s run helped the Whirlies capitalize on the first of the Crusaders’ turnovers, plunging into the endzone to cap a four-play, 26-yard drive.

Gibbons was able to win the field position battle with an outstanding punt by Carter Gray that pinned the Whirlies down inside their own one yard line to start the second quarter. The Crusader defense managed to put some pressure on Barnett who was called for intentional grounding on a throw from the endzone, forcing a safety and putting the Crusaders on the board in the early minutes of the second quarter.

After the safety, the two teams traded possessions until Connor Clark was intercepted by Nate Crawford with less than a minute to play in the half. Crawford returned the pick all the way to the Gibbons 24. On the second play of the late first-half drive, Barnett found Lawson Albright in the back of the endzone for an 11-yard touchdown to stretch Grimsley’s lead to 14-2.

Barnett finished the game with 87 yards through the air and one touchdown pass, netting 30 yards on the ground to go with his ice-breaking touchdown run. He took great care of the football, not throwing an interception on his 17 pass attempts.

Jeiel Melton powered the Grimsley ground game, racking up 116 yards and a touchdown in the game on his way to being named the Most Outstanding Offensive Player for the Whirlies.   Tamoryer Thompson led the way for the Whirlies defense, picking up 3.5 tackles in the game including a pair of sacks, and recording two additional quarterback pressures. Thompson was selected as the Most Outstanding Defensive Player for Grimsley.

Donovan Shepard was the bell cow for the Crusader offense, named the Most Outstanding Offensive Player for Gibbons as he led the team with 124 rushing yards and added a 15 yard reception out of the backfield. Shepard did not find the endzone but made several key runs to keep Crusader drives alive and help move the offense forward against a stingy Grimsley front. Jake Ladd was selected as the Crusaders Most Outstanding Defensive Player, tallying three tackles and two fumble recoveries in the game.

Cardinal Gibbons wrapped up the season 9-1. The Crusaders were 6-0 in CAP-7 4A play. Gibbons secured the program’s second straight Regional Title.

Grimsley finished the season 10-0. The Whirlies were 4-0 in Metro 4A play. They won the program’s second regional title and appeared in the State Championship Game for the first time since 2005. Grimsley won the school’s first State Football Championships since winning the 4A Championship in 1960 when the school was then named Greensboro High.

The NCHSAA is committed to recognizing and promoting good sportsmanship and has partnered with the NC Farm Bureau to highlight individuals from each State Championship event who exemplify the ideals of outstanding sportsmanship. The 2020-2021 4A Sportsmanship Award recipients were Brendan Charnot from Cardinal Gibbons and Clifton Buckrham from Grimsley.

Scoring Summary

First Quarter

1:27 – GRIM – A. Barnett 5 yard run (J. Henry kick good) – GRIM 7-0 (4 plays, 26 yards, 2:21)

Second Quarter

10:43 – CG – Team Safety (Intentional Grounding in the Endzone) – GRIM 7-2

0:17 – GRIM – L. Albright 11 yard pass from A. Barnett (J. Henry kick good) – GRIM 14-2 (2 plays, 24 yards, 0:27)

Third Quarter

No Scoring

Fourth Quarter

8:03 – GRIM – J. Melton 9 yard run (J. Henry kick good) – GRIM 21-2 (11 plays, 92 yards, 4:45)

7:24 – CG – M. Shotwell 41 yard pass from C. Clark (B. Biestek pass failed) – GRIM 21-8 (2 plays, 54 yards, 0:30)

4:37 – GRIM – C. Curtain 38 yard interception return (J. Henry kick good) – GRIM 28-8

Story courtesy of the NCHSAA