North Carolina’s 2026 high school football season didn’t so much begin as spill forward in waves. A mid‑week storm system forced athletic directors across the state into scramble mode, pushing dozens of openers to Thursday, trimming Friday’s slate, stacking Saturday with make‑ups, and leaving a handful of schools preparing to play on Monday night. It was messy, loud, and very Week One.

Thursday became the centerpiece of the statewide schedule, and it delivered the kind of scores that make people double‑check their phones. Eastern Wayne’s 77-0 demolition of Goldsboro and Fike’s 80-0 rout of North Moore were the two results that traveled fastest. Northeastern added a 66-0 win over Bertie, while Marvin Ridge hung 77 on Cox Mill. Weather‑driven or not, the early slate produced some of the most lopsided openers in recent memory.

Several ranked teams were forced into Thursday action as well. Mallard Creek beat Rolesville 45-25, Millbrook shut out Garner 42-0, and Chambers handled Gray Collegiate Academy (SC) 50-21. Hoggard earned a quality 27-13 win over Richmond Senior, and Lake Norman rolled past Sun Valley 47-0. Even with the rushed preparation, the heavyweights mostly held serve.

But Friday, even with a trimmed schedule, delivered the weekend’s most compelling cluster of games.

Weddington opened with a sharp 49-17 win over Mooresville, a matchup that already carried playoff‑level anticipation before the storms reshuffled the calendar. In Cleveland County, Shelby and Kings Mountain renewed one of the state’s fiercest rivalries, with Shelby grinding out a 28-21 win. A few miles away, Lincolnton earned a 30-10 victory over Maiden, another early‑season pairing that always draws attention.

And then came the night’s wildest scoreline: Cherokee 66, North Buncombe 60. A full‑tilt shootout in the mountains, the kind of game that feels like it belongs in late October instead of Week One. It was the most explosive offensive performance reported anywhere in the state on Friday.

Saturday belonged to the programs that couldn’t squeeze into Thursday or Friday. The biggest in‑state result came from Cleveland County, where Crest beat Burns 28-14, adding another strong rivalry chapter to a weekend already full of heavyweight pairings. In the Triangle, Cardinal Gibbons put away a Greensboro-based Dudley squad, 45-6.

But the marquee spotlight sits just across the border: Hough traveling to Rock Hill to face Northwestern (SC), kicking off at 4 p.m. It’s one of the most anticipated interstate games of the season, a rare August meeting between two programs with legitimate championship aspirations. With storms finally clearing, it’s the kind of matchup capable of anchoring an entire weekend.

And Week One still isn’t finished. With field conditions varying wildly and schedules stretched thin, several programs will play on Monday night, extending the opening chapter of the 2026 season into a fourth day. It wasn’t the clean start anyone planned, but it was unmistakably North Carolina football: weather‑bent, rivalry‑heavy, and already full of storylines before the first full week of school even begins.

Week 1 Scoreboard

A.L. Brown 42, Porter Ridge 10

Alexander Central 49, Newton-Conover 28

Ambassador Christian School 21, Mountain View Prep 14

Green Level 41, Athens Drive 30

Walkertown 47, Atkins 0

Bandys 30, St. Stephens 28

Northern Durham 45, Bartlett Yancey 18

South Caldwell 34, Ben L. Smith 12

Northeastern 66, Bertie 0

Hickory Grove Christian 19, Bonnie Cone Leadership Academy 0

Apex Friendship 35, Broughton 20

Bunker Hill 47, Draughn 0

South Granville 27, Bunn 6

Crest 28, Burns 14

Butler 27, Olympic 14

C.B. Aycock 20, Rosewood 0

Christ School 48, Carolina Mavericks 16

Jordan-Matthews 36, Carrboro 22

Carson 41, Central Davidson 24

Parkland 35, Carver 0

Seaforth 48, Chapel Hill 0

Page 56, Charlotte Christian 23

Cherokee 66, North Buncombe 60

Christ the King 36, Metrolina Christian Academy 33

Mount Pleasant 35, Concord 6

Williams 48, Cummings 6

Ardrey Kell 50, Cuthbertson 7

West Forsyth 42, Davie County 13

Topsail 20, Dixon 8

Cape Fear 50, Douglas Byrd 0

Cardinal Gibbons 45, Dudley 6

West Iredell 43, East Burke 6

East Chapel Hill 41, Cedar Ridge 16

East Forsyth 13, Glenn 0

East Gaston 34, North Gaston 8

Hendersonville 48, East Henderson 0

East Lincoln 35, South Iredell 7

East Rowan 21, Wheatmore 7

Statesville 36, East Surry 22

East Wake 27, Riverside-Durham 20

Eastern Alamance 42, Eastern Guilford 14

Eastern Wayne 77, Goldsboro 0

Elkin 8, Surry Central 0

Southeast Raleigh 48, Enloe 0

Fairmont 32, Lumberton 31

Sandhills Classical Christian 44, Father Capodanno 30

Green Hope 31, Felton Grove 20

Fike 80, North Moore 0

Perquimans County 14, First Flight 6

Forbush 10, Bishop McGuinness 7

Forest Hills 49, Salisbury 7

Franklin 42, Murphy 7

Freedom 33, Patton 0

Garinger 28, WSPA 22

Chatham Central 0, Graham 0

Chambers 50, Gray Collegiate Academy 21

Pine Forest 29, Gray's Creek 19

East Columbus 12, Green Sea Floyds 8

Greene Central 49, North Lenoir 20

Indian Land 49, Harding University 0

Harnett Central 49, Northwood 7

Towns County 61, Hayesville 20

East Bladen 41, Heide Trask 0

Heritage 30, Wakefield 28

Hertford County 44, Gates County 12

Hibriten 34, East Wilkes 16

Cannon 42, High Point Christian Academy 28

Langtree Charter Academy 59, Highland Tech 24

Hillside 30, E.E. Smith 22

Midway 47, Hobbton 24

Hoggard 27, Richmond Senior 13

Monroe 28, Hoke County 6

Panther Creek 13, Holly Springs 10

James F. Byrnes 7, Independence 0

Jack Britt 22, South View 17

Jay M. Robinson 28, Charlotte Country Day School 2

Jordan 38, Leesville Road 37

Shelby 28, Kings Mountain 21

Lake Norman 47, Sun Valley 0

Lake Wylie 41, Ballantyne Ridge 35

Clinton 35, Lakewood 19

Faith Christian 55, Lawrence Academy 14

Oak Grove 52, Ledford 3

Lincolnton 30, Maiden 10

Madison 21, Andrews 0

Mallard Creek 45, Rolesville 25

Marvin Ridge 77, Cox Mill 13

Pungo Christian Academy 40, Mattamuskeet 6

Middle Creek 42, Fuquay-Varina 18

Millbrook 42, Garner 0

Central Cabarrus 21, Montgomery Central 14

Northeast Guilford 50, Morehead 7

Starmount 20, Mount Airy 16

Pisgah 48, Mountain Heritage 30

Providence Day 49, Myers Park 13

Currituck County 0, Nansemond-Suffolk Academy 0

Hobgood Charter 14, NHCTA 6

North Brunswick 10, Corinth Holders 7

North Davidson 44, West Stokes 16

North Wake Saints 29, North East Carolina Prep 20

North Edgecombe 20, SCPA 8

Enka 28, North Henderson 14

Wilkes Central 63, North Iredell 0

North Johnston 40, Beddingfield 0

North Lincoln 7, West Lincoln 0

West Rowan 33, North Rowan 18

North Stanly 24, Community School of Davidson 21

Cherryville 41, North Stokes 6

Alleghany 45, North Surry 30

North Wilkes 42, South Stokes 14

Roanoke Rapids 33, Northampton County 8

J.H. Rose 20, Northern Nash 11

White Oak 0, Northside - Jacksonville 0

Northside - Pinetown 24, Camden County 0

Northwest Cabarrus 35, West Cabarrus 20

Western Alamance 33, Northwest Guilford 32

Southeast Alamance 42, Orange 11

Owen 37, Rosman 14

Palisades 42, Ashbrook 28

Pamlico County 34, KIPP Pride 26

Parkwood 47, Piedmont 32

Holmes 42, Pasquotank County 0

Franklinton 34, Person 14

Pine Lake Prep 47, Bessemer City 14

Cleveland 41, Pinecrest 40

Chase 38, Polk County 17

Princeton 34, Ayden - Grifton 9

Providence 24, Hickory Ridge 21

St. Pauls 28, Purnell Swett 6

R.J. Reynolds 47, North Forsyth 0

Providence Grove 27, Randleman 19

Reagan 20, Mount Tabor 0

Anson 42, Red Springs 0

Reidsville 35, Northern Guilford 14

Tuscola 23, Robbinsville 0

Tarboro 38, Rocky Mount 34

John Paul II Catholic 62, Rocky Mount Academy 0

St. David's 14, Rocky Mount Prep 6

North Mecklenburg 48, Rocky River 0

Asheboro 25, Scotland 22

South Johnston 36, Smithfield-Selma 8

Smoky Mountain 42, Swain County 6

South Davidson 35, Trinity 13

South Garner 33, West Johnston 14

Charlotte Catholic 24, South Mecklenburg 0

South Point 34, Hickory 28

South Rowan 41, Union Academy 14

Ravenscroft 33, South Wake Christian Athletics 6

Ragsdale 48, Southern Guilford 0

Overhills 52, Southern Lee 0

Southern Nash 33, Knightdale 13

James Kenan 49, Southern Wayne 6

Lake Norman Charter 21, SouthLake Christian Academy 10

SouthWest Edgecombe 36, Nash Central 8

Rockingham County 39, Southwest Guilford 7

Spartanburg Christian Academy 38, Asheville Christian Academy 22

SSEAS 26, Wake Forest 21

Stuart W. Cramer 42, Forestview 6

T.C. Roberson 48, Huss 12

T.W. Andrews 28, Thomasville 19

Seventy-First 59, Terry Sanford 14

Warren County 52, Vance County 12

Venice 42, Rabun Gap-Nacoochee 40

NRCA 33, Wake Prep Academy 13

Watauga 55, Ashe County 13

TMSA 2, Wayne Preparatory Academy 0

Weddington 49, Mooresville 17

Sallie B. Howard 0, Weldon STEM 0

Pender 52, West Bladen 0

West Brunswick 41, South Brunswick 20

Grimsley 24, West Charlotte 0

Whiteville 53, West Columbus 8

West Henderson 34, Erwin 21

POBAT 19, West Mecklenburg 13

Foard 26, West Wilkes 13

Southeast Guilford 20, Western Guilford 8

J.F. Webb 28, Western Harnett 7

Union Pines 27, Westover 13

Triton 49, Willow Spring 17

The 2026 Carolina Gridiron Preseason All Gridiron Team features a deep and experienced group of standouts from across North Carolina, headlined by East Lincoln tight end Jaxon Dollar, the state’s top ranked recruit and one of the most nationally recognized players in the 2026 class. Dollar, committed to Georgia, enters the season as the most complete offensive weapon in the state and the centerpiece of this year’s preseason roster.

Behind Dollar, the rest of the top recruits also earned All Gridiron honors. Millbrook defensive lineman Rashad Streets (Oregon) anchors a loaded defensive front, while Garner linebacker Aroson Randle (Miami) brings range and physicality to the second level. Cardinal Gibbons defensive back Xavier Hasan, committed to Notre Dame, headlines the secondary, and Hough defensive back Joshua Dobson (South Carolina) rounds out the group as one of the most reliable cover corners in the state.

Hough quarterback Ethan Royal (Marshall) leads the offense after guiding one of North Carolina’s most efficient attacks last fall. He’s joined in the backfield by Rolesville’s Amir Brown (Nebraska) and Southeast Raleigh’s Christian Freeman (NC State), two backs capable of changing a drive with one touch.

Rolesville wideout Anthony Roberts (Virginia Tech) and Southern Durham’s Jonathan Dillon (Duke) give the receiver group a pair of polished route runners, while Crest’s Majay Thompson, committed to Florida State, adds a big play threat on the perimeter.

The offensive line features a strong mix of size and experience with Bryce Johnson (East Carolina), Charlie Reece (Wake Forest), Cooper Hodson (Delaware), Gavin Milton (Duke), and Moreno Fisher (Virginia).

Defensively, the front is one of the strongest the preseason list has seen in years. Alongside Streets, St. Pauls standout Antwan McKoy (Georgia), Seventy First’s John Archer (South Carolina), Corvian’s Nate Kamba (Auburn), and Jordan’s Xavier Perkins (Virginia Tech) form a group capable of controlling games at the line of scrimmage.

Lincolnton’s Jalaythan Mayfield (Indiana) and Millbrook’s Quinton Cupher, committed to Ohio State, join Randle at linebacker, giving the unit a blend of athleticism and toughness.

The secondary includes Clayton’s Akedran Crumel, still undecided, along with Dobson, Shelton (Wake Forest), and Hasan. Southern Durham athlete Lance Henderson, committed to Duke, earns the ATH spot for his versatility across multiple phases.

Special teams round out the roster with Middle Creek punter Ben LaDue, Providence kicker Jamison Causey, and Asheville Christian long snapper Sean Kraft, a Notre Dame commit.

The 2026 Preseason All Gridiron Team highlights the players who have already earned statewide respect, and in many cases, national attention. With five of the state’s top recruits leading the way, this group sets the tone for what should be another standout season across North Carolina.

HICKORY – Tarboro captured its 10th NCHSAA state championship and second consecutive title with a 22-0 shutout of Murphy on Friday night at Helen and Leonard Moretz Stadium at Lenoir-Rhyne University, continuing a dynasty that has produced four crowns in the past six years.

The first-time championship matchup between two programs with rich title traditions brought eastern and western North Carolina together at a neutral site roughly equidistant from both schools. Tarboro coach Jeff Craddock's Vikings improved to 14-0, while Murphy finished 12-2 in its bid for another state crown.

Kamerin McDowell-Moore powered the Vikings with 190 yards and three touchdowns on 17 carries, including a 70-yard scoring run that opened the floodgates in the third quarter. The senior running back averaged 11.2 yards per carry and added 15 tackles on defense, delivering a complete performance on both sides of the ball.

Murphy controlled possession for much of the first half, holding the ball for nearly 21 minutes while Tarboro had just over nine minutes. The Bulldogs moved the ball methodically behind Cameron Clem, who rushed 23 times for 64 yards, and quarterback Brady Grant, who completed 12 of 19 passes for 125 yards.

The Bulldogs drove deep into Tarboro territory on their opening possession, reaching the Vikings 19-yard line before turning the ball over on downs. Murphy converted on fourth-and-one early in the second quarter and pushed into the red zone, getting as close as the Tarboro 24 before another turnover on downs with 5:24 left in the half.

Tarboro took advantage of the momentum shift. Starting from their own 30-yard line with 1:44 remaining in the second quarter after an interception by Carmello Bullock, the Vikings marched 47 yards in seven plays. McDowell-Moore gained nine yards to the Murphy 41, then the Vikings benefited from a 15-yard face mask penalty. Antonio Draughn Jr. picked up three yards for a first down, and Tyler Powell rushed 15 yards to the Murphy 23 as time expired.

The third quarter belonged to Tarboro. On the first play from scrimmage after halftime, McDowell-Moore broke loose for a 70-yard touchdown run at 11:43. Angel Gaytan-Medina's extra point attempt was blocked by Dalton Farmer, leaving the score 6-0.

Murphy responded with a 12-play drive that reached the Tarboro 41, but Clem was stopped for a two-yard loss on fourth-and-one. The Vikings took over and drove 59 yards in 10 plays, reaching the Murphy 29 before punting with 3:40 left in the third quarter.

The Bulldogs started the ensuing drive at their own one-yard line. After three plays netted just three yards, Grant completed an 11-yard pass to Clem on third-and-eight for a first down. On the next play, Grant rushed 15 yards but fumbled at the Murphy 19. McDowell-Moore forced the fumble, and Bullock recovered at the Murphy 26 with 1:15 remaining in the third quarter.

Tarboro needed just four plays to capitalize. McDowell-Moore gained five yards on third-and-five, then broke free for a 16-yard touchdown run on the first play of the fourth quarter at 11:32. Caiden Evans' two-point conversion attempt failed, making it 12-0.

The Vikings defense continued to pressure Grant, who was sacked three times for 34 yards. Donovan Willis recorded one sack for four yards and finished with seven tackles, including two tackles for loss. Tyler Powell had two sacks for 30 yards and added three tackles for loss.

Murphy's final chance to score ended in disaster. After a short punt gave the Bulldogs the ball at their own seven-yard line following two delay of game penalties, Grant was sacked in the end zone by Willis for a safety with 3:55 left in the game, extending Tarboro's lead to 14-0.

Following the free kick, the Vikings needed just one play to seal the victory. McDowell-Moore took a handoff and raced 27 yards for his third touchdown at 3:50. Powell converted the two-point attempt, making the final score 22-0.

Tarboro finished with 282 rushing yards on 41 carries, averaging 6.9 yards per attempt. Evans added 38 yards on nine carries, and Powell rushed for 24 yards on four attempts while also playing quarterback and completing the two-point conversion.

Murphy gained 218 total yards but managed just 93 yards rushing on 44 attempts, averaging 2.1 yards per carry. Grant was sacked three times and rushed nine times for minus-one yard. Blake Davis caught two passes for 37 yards and rushed for 21 yards. Ryan Payne caught six passes for 45 yards and added five tackles on defense.

The Vikings converted six of 10 third downs and controlled the line of scrimmage throughout the second half. Amarion Andrews recorded seven tackles with a tackle for loss, while Evans contributed six tackles from his linebacker position.

Camden Breazeale led Murphy's defense with 11 tackles and a tackle for loss. Brody Orton added seven tackles with a tackle for loss, and Ryan Payne finished with five tackles.

Tarboro's defense held Murphy scoreless despite the Bulldogs possessing the ball for more than 32 minutes. The Vikings forced one fumble, recorded one interception, and held Murphy to 0-for-1 in the red zone.

The victory extends Tarboro's championship legacy and marks the program's 14th consecutive victory. Murphy finished the season 12-2, falling short in its bid for a state championship.

Key Statistics:

• Kamerin McDowell-Moore: 17 rushes for 190 yards and 3 TDs; 15 tackles
• Tarboro total offense: 282 yards (282 rushing, 0 passing)
• Murphy total offense: 218 yards (93 rushing, 125 passing)
• Third down conversions: Tarboro 6-10, Murphy 6-13
• Turnovers: Murphy 2 (1 fumble, 1 interception), Tarboro 0
• Sacks: Tarboro 3 for 34 yards, Murphy 0
• Time of possession: Tarboro 27:15, Murphy 32:45

CHAPEL HILL – Grimsley scored 14 unanswered points in the second quarter and made them stand up for a 24-14 victory over Clayton in the NCHSAA state championship game.

The Whirlies trailed 7-0 after Clayton's opening-quarter touchdown but seized control before halftime and never trailed again, claiming their second straight state title and third in six years.

Clayton looked sharp early. Quarterback Aiden Smalls orchestrated an eight-play, 55-yard drive on the game's opening possession, finishing it himself with a 13-yard touchdown run. Nate Lunger's extra point gave the Comets a 7-0 lead with 6:30 left in the first quarter.

Grimsley's response came in the second quarter with a methodical 12-play, 81-yard drive. Quarterback Faizon Brandon found Hudson Cooper for a seven-yard touchdown pass, and Chase Huellmantel's extra point tied the game at 7-7 with 7:20 remaining in the half.

The Whirlies struck again before the break. Brandon capped a 10-play, 74-yard march with a three-yard touchdown plunge with just 37 seconds left in the half. Huellmantel's kick sent Grimsley to the locker room with a 14-7 lead and all the momentum.

That momentum turned into a rout in the third quarter when Makai Yon jumped a route and intercepted Smalls at the Clayton 38. Yon raced untouched to the end zone for a pick-six that pushed the lead to 21-7 just under two minutes into the second half.

Grimsley added a 22-yard Huellmantel field goal midway through the third quarter, extending the advantage to 24-7 and appearing to put the game away.

But Smalls gave Clayton hope. The senior quarterback broke loose for a 61-yard touchdown run early in the fourth quarter, cutting the deficit to 24-14 with 11:37 to play. Suddenly, the Comets had life.

Clayton forced a turnover on downs with 1:47 remaining and drove deep into Grimsley territory in the final minute. Smalls connected with TJ Campbell for 21 yards to the Grimsley 26, hit Austin Dalton for 14 yards, found River Fiore for 19 yards, then hit Campbell again for 21 yards to reach the Grimsley five-yard line.

With time running out, Clayton had four cracks from inside the five. Smalls threw two incompletions, gained four yards on a third-down rush, then threw incomplete on fourth down as time expired. The Whirlies held on to secure the championship.

Smalls finished with a game-high 167 rushing yards and two touchdowns on 21 carries while completing seven of 15 passes for 91 yards. Campbell caught four passes for 66 yards in the losing effort.

Brandon threw for 126 yards and a touchdown while adding 65 yards and another score on the ground for Grimsley. Micah Williams carried 21 times for 101 yards, providing a steady ground game that helped the Whirlies control the clock for more than 26 minutes.

Yon's pick-six proved to be the difference. The defensive back finished with five tackles and a pass breakup in addition to his game-changing interception return. Drew Searls led all tacklers with eight stops, while Kyrie Millner added two tackles for loss and a sack.

For Clayton, Keshawn Stancil recorded 10 tackles and half a sack, while Mason Bucklad contributed seven stops. Jaheim Stevenson intercepted Brandon in the third quarter but the Comets couldn't capitalize.

Grimsley's ability to convert third downs proved crucial, going six-for-11 while holding Clayton to just three-of-10. The Whirlies also won the possession battle by more than five minutes, keeping Smalls and the Clayton offense off the field during critical stretches.

Key Stats

• Grimsley: 314 total yards (188 rushing, 126 passing)
• Clayton: 305 total yards (196 rushing, 109 passing)
• Third down conversions: Grimsley 6-11, Clayton 3-10
• Time of possession: Grimsley 26:37, Clayton 21:17
• Turnovers: Grimsley 1, Clayton 1

CHAPEL HILL – Watauga High School capped an undefeated season with a 47-25 victory over Middle Creek High School in the NCHSAA 6 State Championship game Friday at Kenan Stadium in Chapel Hill. The Pioneers finished 15-0 while Middle Creek ended its season at 11-3.

Evan Burroughs earned every bit of his game MVP award, delivering a record-setting performance for Watauga, accounting for five touchdowns in multiple ways. The junior recorded three rushing touchdowns, caught a 68-yard touchdown pass, and returned an interception 54 yards for a score. Burroughs finished with 46 rushing yards on seven carries, 149 receiving yards on 14 catches, and two interceptions on defense. His all-purpose total of 266 yards set the tone for a Watauga offense that accumulated 471 total yards. 

Middle Creek opened the scoring with an eight-play, 73-yard drive that consumed nearly three minutes. Jayden Spencer capped the drive with a one-yard touchdown run, and Ben Ladue's extra point gave the Mustangs a 7-0 lead. However, Watauga responded immediately with a three-play, 83-yard drive that took just over a minute. Cade Keller connected with Burroughs for a 68-yard touchdown pass, though the extra point attempt failed.

The game shifted dramatically in the first quarter when Burroughs intercepted a Lex Sevilla pass at the Watauga 46-yard line and returned it 54 yards for a touchdown at the 6:30 mark. The pick-six gave Watauga a 12-7 lead and marked the beginning of Middle Creek's struggles with ball security. The Mustangs threw two interceptions and fumbled three times, though they recovered all three fumbles.

After Burroughs' interception return, Middle Creek managed a 10-play, 56-yard drive that resulted in a 19-yard field goal by Ladue, cutting Watauga's lead to 12-10 with 2:17 remaining in the first quarter. Watauga answered with an eight-play, 66-yard drive, with Matthew Leon punching in a one-yard touchdown run with six seconds left in the quarter. Miller Hankins' extra point extended the lead to 19-10.

The second quarter belonged entirely to Watauga. The Pioneers scored twice in the period, with Burroughs rushing for touchdown runs of three and 25 yards. The second scoring drive covered 67 yards in eight plays and showcased the balance of Watauga's offense. Keller completed nine of 11 passes for 69 yards in the quarter, while the running game added 63 yards. Watauga took a commanding 33-10 lead into halftime.

Both quarterbacks were named their team’s most outstanding offensive players. Watauga’s Cade Keller finished the game with exceptional efficiency, completing 22 of 26 passes for 277 yards and two touchdowns without an interception. His Middle Creek counterpart, Lex Sevilla, completed 21 of 30 passes for 257 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions while also being sacked once by Brady Lindenmuth.

Watauga opened the second half with a methodical nine-play, 75-yard drive that consumed more than eight minutes. The drive featured a 46-yard run by Leon and ended with Burroughs' third rushing touchdown, a seven-yard run. Leon converted the two-point attempt after a Middle Creek penalty moved the ball closer, extending Watauga's lead to 41-10.

Middle Creek showed resilience in the third quarter, assembling a six-play, 51-yard scoring drive. Ezra Jobe capped the drive with a 10-yard touchdown run, and Ladue's extra point made it 41-17 with 1:06 left in the third quarter.

The Mustangs continued their momentum early in the fourth quarter. After recovering a Keller fumble at the Watauga 23-yard line, Middle Creek drove to the Watauga five-yard line but turned the ball over on downs. On the next possession following a punt, Middle Creek put together a six-play, 69-yard drive in just 82 seconds. Sevilla hit Nicolas Bocciardi for a 10-yard touchdown pass, and Nicholas Belcher caught the two-point conversion to cut the deficit to 41-25 with 10:26 remaining.

However, Watauga responded with a game-sealing 12-play, 95-yard drive that took nearly seven minutes off the clock. The drive featured strong running from Leon and Burroughs before Keller found Nyle Peays for a 51-yard touchdown pass with 43 seconds remaining, effectively ended Middle Creek's comeback hopes.

Leon led Watauga's ground game with 78 yards on 12 carries, while Keller added 41 yards on five attempts. For Middle Creek, Spencer rushed 17 times for 53 yards and one touchdown, while Sevilla added 51 yards on nine carries.

Bocciardi was Middle Creek's leading receiver with seven catches for 141 yards and one touchdown. Tracy Harrington Jr. added nine receptions for 79 yards. For Watauga, Burroughs was the primary target with 14 catches, while Peays contributed two receptions for 82 yards.

John Wilson Mills led Watauga's defense with 13 total tackles (10 solo, three assists) and was named the team’s most outstanding defensive player, while Cody Wicker paced Middle Creek with 11 total tackles (six solo, five assists).

The victory gave Watauga its first state championship since the program's previous title, while Middle Creek fell short in its attempt to add another championship to its trophy case.

Top Performers

Evan Burroughs, Watauga

• 14 receptions, 149 yards, 1 TD
• 7 rushes, 46 yards, 3 TDs
• 2 interceptions, 54 return yards, 1 TD
• 266 all-purpose yards

Cade Keller, Watauga

• 22-of-26 passing, 277 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs
• 5 rushes, 41 yards

Nicolas Bocciardi, Middle Creek

• 7 receptions, 141 yards, 1 TD

Lex Sevilla, Middle Creek

• 21-of-30 passing, 257 yards, 1 TD, 2 INTs
• 9 rushes, 51 yards

CHAPEL HILL – The Hough Huskies capped a perfect 14-0 season with a 21-0 victory over Millbrook in the NCHSAA 8A state championship game at Kenan Stadium. The Huskies held the Wildcats to just 122 total yards while generating 265 yards of their own to claim the program’s first-ever state title.

Hough quarterback Ethan Royal earned Most Valuable Player honors after accounting for all three touchdowns. He rushed 12 times for 64 yards and two scores while completing 13 of 29 passes for 135 yards and another touchdown. His performance defined a game where the Huskies converted third downs at a 42 percent clip compared to Millbrook's 21 percent success rate.

The game's opening score came late in the first quarter when Hough put together a 12-play, 66-yard drive that consumed 5:51 of clock time. Royal capped the march with a one-yard touchdown plunge at the 3:47 mark. The drive featured five first downs, including a 14-yard completion to Kynis Tinnin that moved the ball to the Millbrook 11-yard line.

Millbrook (13-1) struggled to sustain offensive momentum throughout the contest. The Wildcats managed just 26 net rushing yards on 26 attempts, an average of one yard per carry. Quarterback Bryson Gray completed 13 of 28 passes for 96 yards but threw one interception and failed to lead his team into the end zone.

The second quarter saw both defenses tighten. Millbrook reached the Hough 17-yard line on one possession but turned the ball over on downs when Gray's fourth-down pass fell incomplete. The Wildcats advanced to the Hough 50 on another drive before a holding penalty pushed them back, and they punted after three consecutive incomplete passes.

Hough extended its lead early in the fourth quarter. Taking over at the Millbrook 46 after a punt with 2:27 remaining in the third quarter, the Huskies needed just seven plays to find the end zone. Royal connected with Jahmere Anderson on a seven-yard touchdown pass at the 11:54 mark of the final period. Piercom Selland's extra point made it 14-0.

Millbrook's offense showed life immediately after, with Gray hitting Quinton Cypher on an 18-yard completion on the first play. After Brilison McCullers gained eight yards on a rush, the Wildcats faced fourth-and-three at their own 44. Gray found Cypher again, but the gain measured only one yard, and Hough took over on downs.

The Huskies' defense registered five tackles for loss and limited Millbrook's leading rusher, McCullers, to 25 yards on 16 carries. Ryan Peterson led the defensive effort with 10 total tackles and two tackles for loss, earning West Defensive Most Outstanding Player recognition.

Cypher provided the brightest moments for Millbrook's defense. He recorded 10 tackles, forced one fumble, and intercepted Royal in the third quarter at the Millbrook 45-yard line, returning it 19 yards to the Hough 36. However, the Wildcats could not capitalize and turned the ball over on downs after losing 19 yards on the possession. Cypher also blocked a punt in the third quarter and was named East Defensive Most Outstanding Player.

Hough's Jamarion Morrison rushed 15 times for 63 yards and caught two passes for 30 yards, earning West Offensive Most Outstanding Player honors. His 16-yard run early in the fourth quarter set up first-and-10 at the Millbrook 29, though that drive stalled and Hough turned the ball over on downs.

Royal sealed the championship with a 74-yard touchdown run with 59 seconds remaining. Facing third-and-15 at his own 26-yard line, Royal broke through the Millbrook defense and raced untouched to the end zone. Selland's third extra point established the final margin.

The Wildcats' best offensive possession resulted in zero points. After Cypher's interception gave them possession at the Hough 36 in the third quarter, Millbrook went backwards. Gray threw three incomplete passes, and punter Ethan Luberecki rushed for a 16-yard loss on fourth down when the play broke down.

Malachi Thomas led Millbrook receivers with five catches for 45 yards. He also returned three kickoffs for 51 yards. His teammate Malachi Gilchrist caught three passes for 22 yards and was selected East Offensive Most Outstanding Player despite the shutout loss.

Hough's defense forced four Millbrook fumbles and recovered one while intercepting Gray once. Jason Wilkerson picked off a Gray pass in the fourth quarter and returned it 33 yards to the Millbrook 37, setting up Royal's 12-yard completion to Jayden White on the subsequent drive.

The Huskies finished with 130 rushing yards on 28 attempts, good for 4.6 yards per carry. Royal threw for 135 yards, with White catching four passes for 31 yards and Christian Carter adding three receptions for 25 yards.

Special teams played a significant role. Hough's Baylie Nelson punted four times for 119 yards, while Millbrook's Luberecki punted five times for 133 yards. Rashad Streets blocked a Hough punt in the third quarter, giving the Wildcats possession at the Hough 45, but Millbrook lost nine yards on that possession.

Gray rushed three times for a net loss of six yards after being sacked for losses on multiple scrambles. Santonis Wright provided a spark late in the game with 21 yards on four carries, including a 16-yard run, but Millbrook's final drive ended as time expired.

The championship completed Hough's undefeated campaign. Their defense recorded six tackles for loss in the title game, with Jackson Heath and Ryan Peterson contributing 2.5 and 2.0, respectively.

Millbrook's season ended at 13-1. Gray completed passes to five different receivers but could not generate the explosive plays needed against Hough's stingy defense.

Top Performers:

William A. Hough:

• Ethan Royal: 12 rushes, 64 yards, 2 TDs; 13-of-29 passing, 135 yards, 1 TD
• Jamarion Morrison: 15 rushes, 63 yards; 2 catches, 30 yards
• Ryan Peterson: 10 tackles, 2 TFL
• Jason Wilkerson: 4 tackles, 1 interception (33-yard return)

Millbrook:

• Quinton Cypher: 10 tackles, 1 interception, 1 fumble recovery, 1 blocked punt
• Malachi Thomas: 5 catches, 45 yards; 3 kickoff returns, 51 yards
• Bryson Gray: 13-of-28 passing, 96 yards, 1 INT
• Malachi Gilchrist: 3 catches, 22 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.

The 2A State Championship offers a geographical and philosophical clash between the East and the West, featuring the Tarboro Vikings and the Murphy Bulldogs, two of the most reliable championship programs in the state. This is their first-ever meeting, ensuring a historic outcome and guaranteeing one program will add another prestigious trophy to an already packed case.

The Tarboro Vikings are arguably the most consistent program in the state, making their 8th consecutive appearance in the state championship game, a new NCHSAA record that may stand forever. This remarkable streak is a testament to the culture built by Coach Jeff Craddock over 22 seasons. Craddock, with a career record of 261-47, has the sixth-most wins at a single school in NCHSAA football history and is making his 14th appearance in a state final. His sustained excellence is unmatched in modern North Carolina football.

Tarboro enters the game making its 17th total championship appearance, holding a strong 10-6 record in those games, including last year's 1A title. The Vikings are built on a philosophy of discipline, ball control, and punishing physicality, a style often necessary to win eight regional titles in a row. They average 42.4 points per game while allowing just 8.9, with six shutouts showcasing their defensive dominance.

The offensive centerpiece is senior running back Kamerin McDowell-Moore, the 2024 1A State Championship MVP who has rushed for over 2,000 yards and 30 touchdowns this season. McDowell-Moore, an Elon commit and Shrine Bowl participant, is the Eastern Plains Conference Player of the Year. His combination of speed, power, and vision makes him one of the state's elite backs. He's equally dangerous in the return game and contributes on defense.

Senior Tyler Powell is a two-way force, serving as quarterback and defensive end. From his DE position, Powell has recorded 13.0 sacks, earning him Eastern Plains Defensive Player of the Year honors and a Shrine Bowl selection. Senior Jhalen Pharr-McNair provides versatility as an athlete who impacts the game at running back and outside linebacker, while senior Keivious Bridgers contributes at tight end and linebacker.

The Vikings' dominance has been complete, outscoring playoff opponents 193-19, including shutout victories over Camden County (52-0) and Warren County (40-0). They're riding a 24-game winning streak dating back to last season, demonstrating remarkable consistency and championship pedigree. The key regular season victory came against Kinston (42-35), a hard-fought win that Coach Craddock cited as the team's most galvanizing moment.

The Murphy Bulldogs (12-2) are equally storied in the mountains of North Carolina. This is their 13th appearance in the final, where they own an impressive 9-3 record. Head Coach Joseph Watson, in his fifth season with a 51-17 record, is a Murphy graduate who understands what the program means to the community. He's continued the Bulldogs' tradition of excellence, bringing them back to the championship stage for the first time since their 2020-21 title.

Murphy thrives on a rugged defense and a methodical, effective run game that takes advantage of the size and strength of their linemen. Junior running back Cameron Clem is the offensive engine, having rushed for 1,647 yards and 30 touchdowns while averaging nearly 120 yards per game. Clem, the Smoky Mountain Conference Back of the Year, is a three-year varsity player whose production has been exceptional all season.

Senior quarterback Brady Grant, a Smoky Mountain All-Conference selection, manages the offense efficiently, while senior receiver Ryan Payne provides the deep threat at 33.2 yards per game. Payne is also a two-time All-WNC selection and contributes significantly on defense at free safety.

The defense is anchored by senior linebacker Brody Orton (9.8 tackles per game) and senior defensive end Camden Breazeale (8.0 sacks), both All-SMC selections. Senior Dalton Farmer provides linebacker depth, while sophomore Anthony Catuto has emerged as a contributor at linebacker and tight end. The Bulldogs average 38.4 points per game while allowing 13.6, with four shutouts demonstrating their defensive capability.

Murphy's path to the final has been paved by a defense that has consistently shut down Western opponents. After a challenging start that included losses to Heard County (Georgia) and A.C. Reynolds, the Bulldogs have won 10 straight, including playoff victories over Albemarle (57-14), Community School of Davidson (62-20), Corvian Community (49-40), and a defensive gem against Starmount (14-2).

Watson emphasizes his team's selfless approach: "A big part of our success this year has been our guys completely buying into their roles. Nobody's worried about touches or stat lines, they're locked in on doing their job and doing it well."

The Matchup: The key to this game will be ball security and tackling. Tarboro's defense will face a Murphy running back in Clem who is adept at finding seams and breaking tackles, while Murphy must contain the speed and misdirection in Tarboro's run game, which can break for big plays at any moment with McDowell-Moore.

Both teams run similar offensive philosophies, power running games that control the clock and wear down opponents. The difference may come down to explosive plays and which defense can force the critical turnover. Tarboro's experience in championship games and their 24-game winning streak suggests they know how to win in these moments, but Murphy's program pedigree and defensive discipline means they won't be intimidated by the stage.

For both schools, a victory adds another prestigious title to an already packed trophy case, but for Tarboro, a win would extend one of the most legendary championship streaks in NCHSAA history. The game promises a full 48-minute, trench-warfare slugfest between two programs that represent the best of small-town North Carolina football. The 424-mile distance between Tarboro and Murphy represents the entire breadth of the state, making this a true East-West championship showdown.

Tarboro Vikings (14-0) vs. Murphy Bulldogs (12-2)

December 13 (Sat) at Moretz Stadium

Kickoff: 5:00 p.m.

The 3A Championship provides a stark contrast between a program that measures success in state titles and a program seeking to establish its own modern legacy. The Shelby Golden Lions are arguably the NCHSAA's most historically successful program, making their 25th appearance in a title game and boasting a phenomenal 18-6 record in those contests. When you include their nine WNCHSAA championship appearances between 1947-1976 (where they went 4-3-2), Shelby's championship pedigree is unmatched. The Golden Lions come into the contest with a 12-3 record, a testament to their continued excellence under Head Coach Mike Wilbanks.

Wilbanks, in his seventh season at Shelby with a 76-20 overall record, has established himself as one of the state's elite coaches. He won both the 2019 2AA and 2021 2A championships with the Golden Lions, and this team has all the pieces to add a third title to his resume. After an 0-2 start that included losses to county rivals Kings Mountain and Crest, the Lions have responded with 12 straight victories, demonstrating resilience and championship character.

The 2025 Golden Lions are led by the powerful arm of quarterback Lan Farmer. The 6-foot-4, 225-pound senior is an exceptional talent whose statistics speak for themselves: 3,770 passing yards, 48 passing touchdowns, and only 7 interceptions this season. Farmer's ability to stretch the field vertically and find open receivers makes the Shelby offense nearly impossible to stop when he is clicking. His command of the offense and decision-making have been exemplary all season.

Farmer has guided the Lions through a tough playoff bracket, including critical wins over East Rutherford (65-34), Mount Airy (41-21), and a heart-stopping 43-41 regional final victory over Eastern Randolph. In that Eastern Randolph thriller, Farmer threw for 388 yards and 3 touchdowns, demonstrating his ability to perform in pressure moments. Wilbanks pointed to an earlier regular-season game against Burns, won on a last-second blocked field goal (36-35), as the team's most galvanizing moment.

Freshman running back Jonas Woods has been a revelation, leading the team with 73.8 yards per game and 14 touchdowns. His emergence has given Shelby a ground game to complement Farmer's aerial assault. Junior receiver Immanuel Collins Jr. (68.9 yards per game) is Farmer's favorite target, while junior Kendrick Raper provides another deep threat.

Defensively, the Lions are anchored by junior linebacker Landon Hollifield (8.5 tackles per game) and senior defensive end Noah Gartner, who has recorded 15.0 sacks, among the state's best. Senior free safety Derrick Kee and senior strong safety Kendrick Raper (who also plays receiver) provide secondary coverage. The Golden Lions average 47.8 points per game while allowing 19.3, with four shutouts demonstrating their ability to dominate on both sides of the ball.

The Kinston Vikings (11-4) are seeking to crash the Shelby coronation and remind everyone that they, too, have championship pedigree, although the Vikings' last title was seventy years ago. Kinston is reaching the title game for the third time in fourteen years, proving they know how to get to the final stage. Head Coach Ryan Gieselman, in his 13th season with a 106-56 career record, led the Vikings to the 2015 2A championship game where they fell to Shelby 57-21, a loss that still motivates this program.

The Vikings have navigated a challenging path, evident by their 11-4 record and 14-seed in the playoffs, one of the lowest seeds to ever reach a championship game. After losses to South Central, White Oak, Ayden-Grifton, and rival Tarboro (42-35), Kinston found its identity and embarked on a remarkable playoff run. Gieselman points to a mid-season victory over Greene Central as the galvanizing moment that turned the season around.

Kinston relies on an aggressive, fast-paced game to create turnovers and quick scoring opportunities. Senior receiver Tyreek Copper has been nothing short of sensational, recording a record-setting 2,000+ receiving yards and 32 touchdowns while averaging 134.2 yards per game. Copper's production is among the best in state history, and he's the primary reason Kinston's offense averages 37.0 points per game despite their pass-heavy approach (270.8 passing yards per game).

Senior running back Genesis Wiggins provides balance with 57.6 yards per game, while senior quarterback Tyler Jones manages the offense and delivers the ball to Copper and fellow receivers Pap Brown and Brennan Chambers. The Vikings' aerial attack is designed to create explosive plays and force opponents to defend the entire field.

Defensively, Kinston is led by senior Jemorris Poole (10.3 tackles per game) and junior cornerback Justin Gooding Jr. (5 interceptions). Senior linebacker Davieon Jones contributes 4.0 sacks, while the secondary must play aggressive, physical coverage to disrupt opposing passing games. The Vikings allow 20.5 points per game, and their ability to create turnovers (2.3 per game) has been crucial to their success.

The Matchup: This game pits the established air-raid dominance of Shelby, with Farmer's 48 touchdown passes, against the aggressive, opportunistic style of Kinston and Copper's record-setting season. If the Vikings can force a few turnovers and convert them into scores, exploiting any potential weakness in the Lions' protection, they have a chance to add another perfect title game record to their history.

Kinston must find a way to pressure Lan Farmer and disrupt his timing, relying on the athleticism of their defensive line and secondary. However, Gartner's 15 sacks suggest Shelby's pass rush could be equally problematic for Kinston's pass-heavy attack. The key will be protecting the quarterback and giving Copper opportunities to make plays in space.

This rematch of the 2015 championship, which Shelby won convincingly, takes on added significance. Can Kinston avenge that loss a decade later? Or will Shelby's history and the sheer passing volume of Lan Farmer prove too much? The Vikings will need a historic defensive performance to stop the Golden Lions from collecting their 19th state title trophy, but their perfect championship game record suggests they shouldn't be underestimated.

The 283-mile journey from Kinston to Shelby represents more than distance; it's the culmination of two very different seasons that converged at the same destination. One program has been here many times; the other arrives as the ultimate underdog. Both will leave everything on the field Saturday afternoon.

Kinston Vikings (11-4) vs. Shelby Golden Lions (12-3)

Durham County Memorial Stadium

Kickoff: 2:00 p.m.

The 7A final features a battle between two of the state's most electric quarterbacks, with Clayton (12-2) making its historic debut and Grimsley (14-0) bringing a stellar record and riding a 30-game winning streak powered by a national recruit. This matchup represents the ultimate East-West showdown, with contrasting paths to the championship game.

The Clayton Comets have burst onto the scene in the Triangle area, achieving their first-ever 7A state championship appearance and first final of any kind since 1989, a 36-year gap. Head Coach Scott Chadwick, in his fourth season with a 38-12 record, highlighted a key moment of adversity early in the season: a significant 38-14 loss to Hoggard which forced personnel and coaching staff changes. The team's response to that challenge revealed their character.

Chadwick, who has coached in three state championship games in Maryland and won with Bowie in 2001, knows what it takes to win at this level. His career record of 210-94 over 25 years speaks to sustained excellence. The Comets' response to early adversity, capped by a "galvanizing moment" win over Cleveland and a thrilling 35-32 semifinal victory over Cardinal Gibbons, solidified their mental toughness and trajectory toward the final.

Their success is intrinsically linked to senior quarterback Aiden Smalls, a dynamic dual-threat athlete committed to NC State. Smalls, who also plays basketball, is a true playmaker, utilizing both his exceptional arm talent and positional versatility. This season, he's thrown for 1,784 yards while rushing for 1,348 yards with 24 combined touchdowns. His ability to create with his legs when plays break down makes him nearly impossible to game-plan against. In the previous season, he threw for 1,948 yards and 24 touchdowns while also rushing for 1,006 yards and 12 touchdowns, earning him the GNRC Offensive Player of the Year award.

Smalls is supported by a talented cast, including receiver Parker Ferguson (61.9 yards per game) and a dominant offensive line featuring tackles Cory Robinson and Nick Cappozzi. The defense is anchored by defensive end Keshawn Stancil, a 6-foot-3, 290-pound force who signed with Miami and is one of the nation's top defensive linemen. His presence alongside junior Kaiden Blackwell (7.0 sacks) gives Clayton an elite pass rush.

Clayton's path to the championship has been marked by their ability to rack up ten or more wins for the third consecutive season, demonstrating consistency and program growth. The Comets average 37.9 points per game while allowing 14.1, with a balanced attack that can beat teams through the air or on the ground.

They face the Grimsley Whirlies of Greensboro, a perennial powerhouse led by one of the nation's elite quarterback prospects, Faizon Brandon. Brandon, a 6-foot-4, 210-pound senior, enters the game with a near-flawless 29-1 record as a starter over his career and is the catalyst for Grimsley's 30-game winning streak. He is known for his remarkable efficiency, having completed 72.5% of his passes with 71 touchdowns against just five interceptions prior to his senior year.

His career totals are staggering: 6,374 passing yards and 79 passing touchdowns, complemented by 1,261 rushing yards and 21 rushing touchdowns, confirming his status as an elite dual-threat quarterback. Brandon's ability to manage the game, make all the throws, and extend plays with his mobility will be the biggest challenge for the Clayton defense. He's supported by sophomore running back Ty Shoemake (1,082 yards, 17 touchdowns) and receiver Kaden Catoe (63.1 yards per game).

Head Coach Darryl Brown, in his 10th year at Grimsley with a 107-24 record, has built a program that consistently competes for championships. The Whirlies are ranked #1 in North Carolina and #12 nationally, defending their 2024 state title and seeking back-to-back championships. Their defense has been equally impressive, allowing just 11.6 points per game with key contributors including defensive end Andrew Rogers (8.0 sacks), linebacker Dylan Searls, and free safety Evander Davis (5 interceptions).

Grimsley's season has included impressive playoff wins over Jack Britt (55-12), Reagan (24-7), and a hard-fought 13-7 victory over Weddington in the regional final. That Weddington game, played in challenging conditions, showcased the Whirlies' ability to win ugly when their high-powered offense isn't clicking.

The two teams have met twice before, in 2021 and 2022, with Grimsley winning both contests decisively (56-0 and 42-14). However, this Clayton team is markedly different, battle-tested and featuring elite talent like Smalls and Stancil who can match up with anyone.

The Matchup: The ultimate question is whether the Comets' experience of overcoming adversity can translate into stopping the nation's most efficient quarterback in a true East-West showdown for the 7A crown. Clayton's pass rush, led by Stancil, must disrupt Brandon's rhythm, while Smalls must match Brandon's production and create explosive plays. This game will likely be decided by which defense can generate more pressure and which quarterback handles that pressure better. The 96-mile distance between Clayton and Greensboro is more than geography, it's a collision of two programs peaking at precisely the right moment.