Jaguars Run Ends

                The Forestview Jaguars trip to the championship was short lived as they fell 35-14 to the Concord Spiders in the fourth round of the N.C. state 3A playoffs. Things started off great for the Jaguars. On their first drive, on 4^th-and-32, Logan Bradley threw a pass into the end-zone that was tipped, but it ultimately landed into the arms of C.J. Bumgardner for a 36-yard touchdown reception. Colton Rouse’s extra point gave Forestview a 7-0 lead.

                But that would be the end of their fun. On Concord’s ensuing drive, Keenan Black connected with Miles Neals for a 49-yard touchdown reception. Logan Sedergren’s reception for a two-point conversion gave Concord an 8-7 lead. On Concord’s next drive, Black took it in himself for a ten-yard touchdown run. Alex Maganda’s kick made it 15-7 Concord.

                Black connected with Neil’s again for a 72-yard touchdown pass to give the Spiders a 21-7 lead. The pass for a two-point conversion failed, though. But it didn’t matter. The Spiders would then do a hook-and-latter play that resulted in another Neils touchdown. It was 28-7 at half-time.

                In the third quarter, Concord just kept on pouring it on. Keenan Black this time connected with Hamsah Nasirildeen for a 20-yard touchdown strike. Maganda’s kick gave the Spiders a dominating 35-7 lead. Forestview did get a drive going in the third quarter and was within striking distance, but Bradley was intercepted by Raquon Pemberton in the end-one. 

                 Now into the fourth quarter, the Jaguars would not quit. Bradley would connect with Mykelti Armstrong for a ten-yard reception. Rouse’s extra point cut the Spiders’ lead to 35-14. Rouse’s on-side kick was successfully recovered. But the Jaguars failed to punch another score in and Concord would melt the clock and Forestview would not get another shot as their hopes for a trip the state championship were wrecked.

Gaston and Cleveland Round 4 Playoff Picks and Game-by-Game Results

Forestview (10-4) @ Concord (14-0): Who would have thought the Jaguars would have made this far after the adversity they suffered toward the end of the season? Well, here they are! After losing to South Point 49-34, Ashbrook 34-31, and Hunter Huss 24-20, and lost their quarterback, Logan Bradley in the process, the Jaguars looked like they were left for dead. Then Forestview made adjustments and the team overcame the loss with two straight blowout wins – a 65-8 win at East Gaston in the regular season finale and a 63-48 win at Carson in the first round of the playoffs. Then Bradley came back against Freedom, a game the Jaguars won 35-34 and he has not missed a beat since his return. They are coming off a 42-20 whipping of Hibriten. Concord has put together an undefeated season and will prove to be a big test for this resilient Jaguar team. The Spiders have put up 50 or more points in four games this year. Last week, the Spiders held South Point’s offense to their lowest point total of the season in their 21-13 win and they are looking to deal Forestview that same fate.

Shown below are game-by-game results of each team.

Forestview

Nation Ford – Lost 57-56
@ Clover – Won 41-6
@ Kings Mountain – Won 41-14
East Lincoln – Won 44-27
Lake Norman Charter – Won 63-7
Bessemer City – Won 66-7
@ North Gaston – Won 55-22
South Point – Lost 49-34
@ Ashbrook – Lost 34-31
Hunter Huss – Lost 24-20
@ East Gaston – Won 65-8
@ J.C. Carson – Won 63-48
@ Freedom – Won 35-34
@ Hibriten – Won 42-20

Concord

@ A.L. Brown – Won 33-20
Mount Pleasant – Won 21-2
@ Hickory Ridge – Won 51-27
South Rowan – Won 34-13
@ East Rowan – Won 55-28
Central Cabarrus – Won 63-50
@ Cox Mill – Won 28-14
J.C. Carson – Won 35-8
@ West Rowan – Won 24-13
NW Cabarrus – Won 52-21
Garinger – Won 70-6
NW Cabarrus – Won 29-0
Piedmont – Won 21-14
South Point – Won 21-13

·         - bolded games are common opponents

My pick: Forestview 28 – Concord 27

Northwest Guilford (12-2) @ Crest (13-1): Don’t let the record fool you, the Nighthawks are actually undefeated on the field but had to forfeit two wins this year. The Chargers lost their season opener to South Point 35-16, but have not looked back and rolled up 13 consecutive victories. The Chargers have won all three of their playoff games by 10 or more points. It will not be easy tonight as Northern Guilford has held ten of their opponents to seven points or less, including five shutouts. These two met in consecutive state titles in 2010 and 2011 with the Nighthawks winning 21-20 in the first one and then winning the second one by a dominating score of 31-7. The Chargers hope to write a new chapter to that story.

Shown below are game-by-game results of each team.

Crest

South Point – Lost 35-16
@ Ashbrook – Won 25-23
Draughn – Won 39-6
@ T.C. Roberson – Won 44-34
@ R-S Central – Won 33-17
Chase – Won 52-14
@ Kings Mountain – Won 43-7
East Burke – Won 41-7
@ East Rutherford – Won 35-14
Burns – Won 21-17
@ Shelby – Won 31-14
Hickory Ridge – Won 41-20
Ashbrook – Won 23-13
A.C. Reynolds – Won 30-14

Northern Guilford

@ Page – Won 21-14
Northwest Guilford – Lost by forfeit (won 33-7 on field)
Williams – Lost by forfeit (won 7-0 on field)
@ Reidsville – Won 34-33
@ Western Alamance – Won 30-7
Eastern Alamance – Won 29-6
@ Rockingham County – 35-0
Eastern Guilford – Won 41-0
@ Northeast Guilford – Won 49-0
McMichael – Won 40-7
@ Morehead – Won 49-6
Eastern Guilford – Won 28-0
Central Cabarrus – Won 34-14
Weddington – Won 22-19

My pick: Northern Guilford 24 – Crest 21

Shelby (10-4) @ Reidsville (12-2): The Regular season did not end the way the Golden Lions would have hoped as they lost two of their last three games. If anything, it seemed to make Shelby hungrier. The Golden Lions opened the playoffs with a 58-8 whipping of Mountain Heritage. The next week, they took their momentum on the road to North Wilkes and came away with a 42-20 victory. Last week, they took down top-seeded North Rowan 45-21. The Rams have been pretty dominant in the regular season but have been slowed down a little bit. Last week, they barely squeezed by Lincolnton 13-10. These two teams are no strangers to each other. The Rams last played Shelby in the 2007 state title game. Reidsville came away with a 28-20 victory, capping off a perfect 16-0 season. In 2005, the Golden Lions traveled to Reidsville in the playoffs and won 26-18 en route to their first of two consecutive state titles. This one will be for a ticket to the big dance.

Shown below are game-by-game results of each team.

Shelby

@ Polk County - Won 38-21
A.C. Reynolds – Lost 49-42
@ South Point – Lost 35-24
@ R-S Central – Won 45-14
Chase – Won 32-20
@ Kings Mountain – Won 49-0
East Burke – Won 37-14
@ East Rutherford – Won 48-10
Burns – Lost 38-34
@ Draughn – Won 49-14
Crest – Lost 31-14
Mountain Heritage – Won 58-8
North Wilkes – Won 42-20
North Rowan – Won 45-21

Reidsville

@ McMichael – Won 32-0
Rockingham County – Won 28-7
@ Morehead – Won 42-7
Northwest Guilford – Lost 42-14
Northern Guilford – Lost 34-33
Northeast Guilford – Won 32-7
Jordan-Matthews – Won 34-7
@ Bartlet-Yancey – Won 55-32
Graham – Won 55-15
@ Cummings – Won 35-7
@ Carrboro – Won 49-6
Hendersonville – Won 50-20
Polk County – Won 27-19
Lincolnton – Won 13-10

My pick: Shelby 28 – Reidsville 21

 

Jaguars continue historic playoff run

The Jaguars continue to play the role of “Road Warriors” as they pick up another road playoff victory. This time it’s a 42-20 blowout of Hibriten. The Jaguars used a balanced attack on offense with Logan Bradley’s passing game and Moe Neal’s running game. Defensively, they smothered Hibriten’s rushing attack.

Things started off bleak for the Jaguars. The Panthers scored out of the gate on their first drive. Quarterback Jacob Copper capped off the Panthers’ first drive with a seven-yard touchdown run. Luke Robson’s extra point gave the Panthers the 7-0 lead.

The Jaguars would answer with a drive of their own. Jarvis Jeffries got Forestview on the board with a one-yard plunge into the end-zone. Colton Rouse’s kick tied the game up at 7-7. Bradley’s 36-yard touchdown pass to Mykelti Armstrong gave Forestview a 14-7 advantage. That would be the score at half-time.

In the second half, things continued to go Forestview’s way. Moe Neal got his first touchdown run of the game with a three-yard run into the end-zone. After Josh Dawkins intercepted a pass from Hibriten quarterback, Jacob Copper, the Jaguars were back in business. But the Panthers caught a break as Neal fumbled before getting into the end-zone.

Bradley’s air assault continued to give the Panthers more trouble. Bradley would connect with Caleb Mills for a 25-yard touchdown reception. Rouse’s kick gave the Jaguars a 28-7 lead.

As if Forestview’s defense wasn’t doing enough damage by stifling the Hibriten offense, the defense made a big play that broke the Panthers backs. Xzavier Davis scooped up a Hibriten fumble and took it 40 yards for a touchdown to give Forestview a 35-7 advantage.

The Panthers, however, were determined not to give up. Davone Jones cut Forestview’s lead with a 69-yard touchdown run. Robson’s extra point made it 35-14. After Logan Bradley was intercepted by Jamal Grier, the Panthers continued to chip away at Forestview’s lead. Tishawn Daniels’s one-yard touchdown run cut the lead to 35-20. The kick was missed, however.

But the door was slammed on any comeback hopes thanks to a five-yard touchdown run by Neal. Neal amassed 156 yards offensively and two touchdowns. Bradley threw for 237 yards and two touchdowns in the win.

“They played lights out.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said “We have some good players. They executed and played great.”

It was not an easy journey for Forestview. After losing Logan Bradley for two games, Medlin knew it was time for somebody to step up and boy did they ever?

“People stepped up when they had to and it started with East Gaston and Carson.” Medlin said.

“We lost to a better team tonight.” Hibriten head coach Clay Lewis said “You got to tip your hat to those guys. We went several three-and-outs and could never get into a rhythm.”

Forestview advances to the regional championship game to take on Concord. The Spiders defeated South Point 21-13.

Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland Round 3 Playoff Picks

Game of the Week: Forestview (9-4) @ Hibriten (12-1): The Jaguars continue to be road warriors as they have won two straight road playoff games including last week’s 35-34 win over top-seeded Freedom. The Jaguars are 7-1 on the road this year. Hibriten, on the other hand, has not been beaten at home this year. They are 7-0 at home. Their only loss was at Freedom by a score of 42-35. The Jaguars are on their longest playoff run in school history and are hopeful to keep it going. Hibriten has not been this far since 2010 when they lost in the fourth round to then state champ, West Rowan. Both teams have put up solid numbers offensively. This should be a catfight between the Panthers and the Jaguars.

My pick: Forestview 38 – Hibriten 34

South Point (13-0) @ Concord (13-0): This is the fourth time since 2000 that these two teams have met with South Point winning all three of the matchups. Will the fourth time be the charm for the Spiders? It doesn’t look like it as South Point dominated a really good Burns team last week 51-14 and Concord barely squeezed by Piedmont 21-14. The Red Raiders lost in the third round last year to Statesville 27-21. Don’t look for that to happen in this matchup.

My pick: South Point 42 – Concord 21

Parkwood (7-6) @ Hunter Huss (6-7): After going 4-7 in regulation and 0-5 at home before the playoffs, the Huskies won two straight home playoff games and are hosting another one. They host #16 Parkwood. The Rebels knocked off #1 Franklin and #8 Forest Hills. Could #5 Hunter Huss be next? The Huskies, after starting the season 1-6, won five of their last seven games. The last time Huss went this far into the playoffs was in 2005 when they traveled to play Asheville. The Huskies lost that game 35-7. Both teams appear to be on a Cinderella run. Well, at least one chariot will turn into a pumpkin before midnight tonight.

My pick: Hunter Huss 27 – Parkwood 21

A.C. Reynolds (9-4) @ Crest (12-1): The Chargers once again advance to the third round of the playoffs after getting past a tough Ashbrook squad 23-13. The Rockets survived a three-overtime battle with Statesville, escaping 52-49. These two teams are very familiar with each other. They have played the last four seasons with Reynolds winning the first two and Crest winning the final two. Look for another shootout in Boiling Springs tonight.

My pick: Crest 34 – A.C. Reynolds 27

Shelby (9-4) @ North Rowan (13-0): The Golden Lions have a tall task ahead of them as they travel to face unbeaten North Rowan. Not many of the Cavaliers games have been close. In fact, the last time they even had a game within 15 points was in September when they beat Davie County 28-13. Their closest game of the year was a 39-33 win over Statesville just a week earlier. However, the Cavaliers have not faced many teams as good as Shelby this year. The last time these two teams have met was in 2000 in Shelby. The Cavaliers left Shelby with a 34-24 win. The Golden Lions hope for a different result. This could be another tight game.

My pick: North Rowan 31 – Shelby 27

Lincolnton (9-4) @ Reidsville (11-2): Lincolnton shocked many last week as they topped top-seeded Carver 28-27. Now the Wolves are looking to extend their playoff season as they travel to take on Reidsville. These two teams last met in the 2001 playoffs with Lincolnton winning 31-7. The Rams also hope to see a different result. They slipped by Polk County last week 27-19. Their only losses this season were to top 3AA team, North Guilford and to Northwest Guilford. Both teams are still in the playoffs.

My pick: Reidsville 27 – Lincolnton 24

East Lincoln (9-4) @ Monroe (11-2): These are two more teams with some playoff history with each other. They met in 2007 with East Lincoln winning 54-20 in Monroe. Both offenses have been on fire and both defenses have been very stingy. East Lincoln’s only on-the-field loss came at the hands of Forestview 44-27. Monroe’s two losses were to NCISAA champion, Charlotte Christian, 42-12 and to Weddington 36-22. This should be one to watch for local fans.

My pick: East Lincoln 36 – Monroe 34

Forestview nips Freedom with late game-winning drive

Things did not start well for Forestview in this game. The Patriots got the ball first and scored right out of the gate. Quarterback Titus Smith got things started when he hit Khris Gardin for a 25-yard touchdown pass. McCartney Barrier’s extra point gave the Patriots a 7-0 lead. After stopping the Jaguars, the Patriots added to their lead with a nine-yard run by Chris Bridges. The point after was missed, though. That would be huge.

Then Forestview went right to work. Logan Bradley, whom returned back to quarterback after missing the previou two games due to an injury, hit Mykelti Armstrong for a 54-yard touchdown pass. Colton Rouse’s kick cut Freedom’s lead to 13-7. Following an interception by Caleb Mills, Forestview tied the score with a four-yard run by Bradley. Rouse’s kick gave Forestview a one-point lead.

The Patriots were poised to score again before half-time, but Smith’s pass was intercepted by Trell McCaskell near the goal-line. However, the Patriots did take the lead back in the second half when B.J. Emmons raced 75 yards for a touchdown score. Bridges added another touchdown of his own, this time from six-yards out. Barrier’s extra point made it 27-14.

The Jaguars stormed back. Moe Neal cut the Patriots lead to 27-21 with a ten-yard run. Emmons would make life harder for Forestview with a 45-yard dash into the end-zone. It was 34-21 right then.

Neal, like last week, continued to carry the Jaguars on his back. His 25-yard touchdown run cut Freedom’s lead to 34-28. The Jaguars then needed to make a stop on defense and they did. The Jaguars drove down the field with a strong passing game by Logan Bradley. But Neal’s one-point touchdown run was the tying score. Rouse’s kick gave Forestview the 35-34 lead with 16 seconds left.

Freedom drove down the field but ran out of time. The Jaguars reach the third round of the playoffs for the first time in school history. They will travel to take on Hibriten, a 28-18 winner of Pisgah.

“We deserved one like that.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said “After the Ashbrook game last year (40-36 loss), the Nation Ford game this year (57-56 loss) and the Ashbrook game this year (34-31 loss), the kids deserved this one. I knew we had to score. It was a matter of someone making a big play.”

“First off, I couldn’t be more proud of these kids.” Freedom head coach Blair Hardin said “We had some missed opportunities. Playing a good team, we did not capitalize. But I could not be prouder to coach a great group of kids and Seniors.”

Hardin also mentioned that this was a foundation year and expressed excitement for the future of the Freedom program.

Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland Round 2 Playoff Picks

Game of the Week: Ashbrook (9-3) @ Crest (11-1): If there is not a game in your area or a team you pull for is no longer in the playoffs, this would be a game to go see. Crest took down Ashbrook by a score of 25-23 earlier in the year. So this game should be a barnburner. It’s hard to beat a good team twice in one year. Last year, it took overtime for Crest to beat Ashbrook 35-28. But when they met in the playoffs the Chargers crushed the Green Wave 58-14. Don’t look for that kind of result this time around as Ashbrook is much improved over last year’s squad. Last week’s 38-35 double-overtime win over Erwin was the Green Wave’s first playoff win since 2007.

My pick: Ashbrook 35 – Crest 28

Burns (11-1) @ South Point (12-0): This should be another good game for area fans to scope out. The Red Raiders were a little rusty last week coming off their bye week, but they pulled away with a 28-7 win over West Rowan. Burns ended North Gaston’s season with a 35-18 victory. The Bulldogs will have a tall task ahead in slowing down South Point’s triple-option attack. Last week was only the second time South Point was held to less than 30 points.

My pick: South Point 35 – Burns 28

Forestview (8-4) @ Freedom (11-1): Forestview is coming off their first ever road playoff win as they knocked out Carson 63-48. Now, they must travel to take on top-seeded Freedom team. The Jaguars pulled away last week after trailing 42-35. That was after leading 35-14 midway through the second quarter. Freedom blew past East Rowan 33-13. This game could do down to the wire. Don’t be surprised to see Forestview pull the upset as the Jaguars have been battle-tested the past four out of five weeks.

My pick: Forestview 35 – Freedom 28

Bunker Hill (8-4) @ Hunter Huss (5-7): The Huskies won a nail-biter last week in their 30-27 victory over West Lincoln. This was their first home victory of the year. This was also their first playoff win since 2006. The Huskies are looking to keep the winning streak going into next week. Should they win this game, they will be home again next week given that the top-seeded team in their bracket has been knocked out and they would have to face #9 Forest Hills or #16 Parkwood. But first things first, the Bears bring an aggressive running attack to the game against Hunter Huss. But the Huskies bring a highly battle-tested team to the field and look for them to be ready for this one.

My pick: Hunter Huss 35 – Bunker Hill 21

Maiden (11-1) @ East Lincoln (8-4): This will be twice in four weeks these two teams have met. As mentioned earlier, it is tough to beat a good team twice in one year. However, the Mustangs totally dominated Maiden 42-0. That is not likely to happen again, however. The Mustangs are expected to win, but look for the Blue Devils to put up a fight this time.

My pick: East Lincoln 35 – Maiden 21

Lincolnton (8-4) @ Carver (11-1): These two teams are no stranger to each other. In 2009, Lincolnton traveled to Carver and took down the Yellow Jackets in the third round of the 2A playoffs. In 2010, the Yellow Jackets traveled to Lincolnton and got revenge against the Wolves in a 41-27 game. The Wolves are hoping for the same results the last time they traveled to Carver. But the Yellow Jackets might be more battle-tested as they have faced four 4A schools earlier in the year.

My pick: Carver 31 – Lincolnton 21

Shelby (8-4) @ North Wilkes (10-2): Coming off their 58-8 victory over Mountain Heritage, the Golden Lions travel to take on a dangerous North Wilkes team. The Vikings edged Brevard last week 31-28. They could have their hands full with the speed that the Lions bring. Given that Shelby has played some top 3A teams and a powerful 4A team in A.C. Reynolds, look for the Golden Lions to be ready for this one.

My pick: Shelby 35 – North Wilkes 17

Cherryville (6-6) @ Starmount (9-3): Just like Hunter Huss, the Cherryville Ironmen got their first playoff win since 2006. They took out conference rival, Highland Tech, 42-13. But they will face a huge task going up to Booneville to take on Starmount. The Rams may have too much for Cherryville, though.

My pick: Starmount 42 – Cherryville 14

Neal’s Big Running Game Lifts Forestview Over Carson For Historic Road Playoff Win

After Blowing a 35-14 lead before half-time and watching Carson take a 42-35 lead early in the third quarter, the Jaguars decided that was enough. Moe Neal would carry the team on his legs as he scored three out of four of Forestview’s last touchdowns and the defense stiffened allowing Carson no more scores until the last minute of the game. That made the final score 63-48.

Neal scored on runs of 44, 42, 42, 11 and 1 and he amassed 291 yards. Forestview jumped on the board first with a J.C, Crawford 66-yard touchdown pass to C.J. Bumgardner. Carson tied it up the ensuing drive with an Austin McNeil 30-yard touchdown pass to Brandon Huneycutt. The Jaguars went back at it with three-yard touchdown run by Montavis Rogers. After a Carson fumble, the Jaguars were back in business. But they gave the ball right back when they fumbled the snap. Tyler Reynolds took the fumbled ball for a 41-yard touchdown score.

Then Forestview went on their first-half tear. A one-yard plunge and 44-yard dash into the end-zone by Neal and a six-yard touchdown reception by Jarvis Jeffries made the score 35-14. It would be the Cougars turn to respond. McNeil cut the Jaguars lead with a 12-yard touchdown run. The Jaguars would self-destruct from then on. Being forced to punt, the Jaguars had their punt blocked by Max Lear and Tre Williams took it in for a touchdown.

Trying to get momentum back, Crawford attempted a deep pass intended for Mykelti Armstrong, but Tyrese Paul intercepted it with four seconds left. Carson did a hook-and-lateral pass that Darren Isom took 70 yards for a touchdown to tie it up at 35-35 at half-time.

Neither team got anything going on their first drive in the second half. The Cougars once again blocked a Jaguar punt. This time, it was Lear again. A touchdown pass from McNeil to Isom and the extra point by Logan Correll gave the Cougars a 42-35 lead.

The Jaguars would not take long to respond. Moe Neal’s 42-yard touchdown run cut the lead to 42-41. The extra point was blocked though. But the Jaguars would take the lead back on their next drive. Set up by a Neal 50-yard run, Jarvis Jeffries scored from the one yard line and J.C. Crawford’s run for the two-point try made it 49-42.

Neal scored on another 42-yard run with eight minutes left and Rouse’s kick gave Forestview a 56-42 lead. Carson was running out of chances. Two sacks by Jarvis Jeffries forced the Cougars to punt. The Jaguars then chewed the clock and with a minute to go put the nail in the coffin with a minute left in the game with Neal’s 11-yard touchdown run.

Carson did score an oh-by-the-way touchdown with Austin McNeil’s five-yard touchdown run, the extra point was blocked though. The Jaguars then recovered the on-side kick and sealed the victory.

“That’s what a veteran team of 24 seniors does for you.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said about Forestview bouncing back from their late second quarter woes “We fought when we could have folded and we kept our composure.”

“I feel like the line did a great job and imposed their will. Moe was outstanding and Mykelti’s (Armstrong) big catch helped us out. The defense shut them down in the second half. I was just proud of the kids. Carson is a good football team. It’s good to beat a quality team in the first round.”

“I thought they made more big plays.” First-year Carson head coach Joe Pinyan said “I thought our kids played with a lot of heart. We needed to make one more big play, either on offense, defense or special teams but Forestview would not let us get it."

Pinyan on Carson's 28 unanswered points that gave them a 42-35 lead after trailing 35-14 "Our kids showed great resilience.”

Pinyan previously coached at Salisbury where he won a state title. Forestview will travel to take on Freedom, a 33-13 winner over East Rowan. This was Forestview's second playoff win in school history, but their first ever road playoff victory. The Jaguars hope this is the first of many. The Jaguars last playoff win was in 2009 against Weddington 28-7.

Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland Round 1 Playoff Picks

Game of the Week: West Rowan (7-4) @ South Point (11-0): The last time these two teams met was back in 2008 in the 3A playoffs. The Falcons ripped South Point 35-7 en route to their first of three consecutive state titles. But this is a different South Point team and a different West Rowan team. Don’t look for that same result tonight in Belmont.

My pick: South Point 48 – West Rowan 28

West Lincoln (7-4) @ Hunter Huss (4-7): West Lincoln is in search for their first playoff win. Hunter Huss, believe it or not, is in search of their first home win of the season. All four of the Huskies’ four victories were on the road this year. The Rebels hope to snap their three-game losing streak in the process.

My pick: Hunter Huss 27 – West Lincoln 20

Forestview (7-4) @ Carson (7-4): Forestview is hoping to put their playoff woes behind them as they travel to Carson. The Jaguars are 1-12 all-time in the playoffs and have not won one on the road. Carson has won two in their eight-year history. The Jaguars stopped a three-game skid last week with a 65-8 win and hope to keep momentum going as they travel to take on the Cougars.

My pick: Forestview 27 – Carson 24

Ashbrook (8-3) @ Erwin (9-1): Ashbrook is another team looking to end their playoff woes. The Green Wave have not won a playoff game since 2007 when they advanced to the third round. Their last playoff win was a 41-28 victory over Ardrey Kell. These two teams met in the first round just two years ago with Erwin laying the hammer down on them 35-7. Ashbrook is looking for some payback though. Erwin was tripped up for the first time last week as they lost 21-7 to Asheville.

My pick: Erwin 21 – Ashbrook 14

North Gaston (6-5) @ Burns (10-1): North Gaston is in the playoffs for the first time since their 2007 state title run. Burns has not missed the playoffs since 2008 and have not gone one-and-done under Matt Beam’s tenure. The Wildcats have a tall mountain to climb as they travel to face the Bulldogs.

My pick: Burns 34 – North Gaston 17

Hickory Ridge (4-7) @ Crest (10-1): The Chargers have won their first conference title since 2006 when they split the Big South 4A/3A with East Gaston. That’s also their first outright title since 2004 when they won their second straight 3AA state title. The Chargers should not have any trouble with the struggling Ragin’ Bulls of Hickory Ridge.

My pick: Crest 42 – Hickory Ridge 7

Bandys (5-6) @ East Lincoln (7-4): East Lincoln begins the defense of their state title tonight as they host conference foe, Bandys. The Mustangs routed the Trojans 55-26 earlier this year and there is little reason to believe that can't do it again tonight. The Trojans have had their share of ups and downs this year. The Mustangs since their 44-27 loss to Forestview (their only on-the-field loss) have been consistent and have been getting better each and every week.

My pick: East Lincoln 48 - Bandys 21



Lincolnton (7-4) @ Thomasville (5-6): A rematch from last year is in the making as Lincolnton travels to Thomasville. The Bulldogs booted the Wolves from the playoffs last year with a 55-14 rout. Lincolnton will try and keep that from happening again. They will also try and eradicate the bitter taste from last week’s 42-14 drubbing at the hands of Maiden. This could be a dogfight.

My pick: Lincolnton 30 – Thomasville 27

Mountain Heritage (7-4) @ Shelby (7-4): This looks like a catfight in the making. The Golden Lions have lost their last two home games. The Cougars are hoping to add to that as they visit Shelby. The Cougars have not lost on the road yet this year. But they probably have not faced a team as strong as Shelby. They usually peak this time of year and this year looks no different.

My pick: Shelby 34 – Mountain Heritage 27

Bessemer City (6-5) @ Avery County (4-7): Bessemer City saw their four-game winning streak and their chances for an outright conference title fall last week as they lost 28-27 to archrival, Cherryville. Now, they are looking to rebound from that as they travel to Avery County. The Vikings have lost four of their last five games heading into tonight. The Yellow Jackets should have the edge in this one.

My pick: Bessemer City 34 – Avery County 24

Highland Tech (1-10) @ Cherryville (5-6): Cherryville earned a share of the Southern Piedmont conference title last week with a 28-27 victory over Bessemer City. Now they are looking to turn that success into a playoff victory. They have not won a playoff game since Keith Fox’s first season as head coach when they came away with wins over Swain County and Jordan-Matthews. They face conference foe, Highland Tech. Cherryville should take this game easily.

My pick: Cherryville 47 – Highland Tech 6

Forestview snaps skid, hammers East Gaston

The Jaguars were anting to get a little momentum going into the postseason. East Gaston was trying to get in the postseason. The Jaguars started fast and East Gaston was unable to get anything going. The Warriors were plagued with five turnovers. The Jaguars only had one.

With quarterback Logan Bradley sidelined due to a knee injury he sustained in the Hunter Huss game, the Jaguars put heavy emphasis on their run game and they got results early. Moe Neal got Forestview on the board early with a one-yard plunge into the end-zone. Jarvis Jeffries scored next with a 32-yard run touchdown run. Colton rouse’s extra points made it 14-0.

The Jaguars defense contributed to the cause as Garrett Robinson snagged an interception from the air into the end-zone for another score. Forestview then got their areal assault going when J.C. Crawford connected with Mykelti Armstrong for a 31-yard touchdown reception.

Tate Payne got in on the action with a one-yard plunge into the end-zone. Rouse’s kick made the score 34-0. Crawford got in on the fun himself when he punched in a touchdown of his own from the two-yard line. It was 41-0 at half-time, but it could have been higher had Forestview not had two touchdowns (both on the same drive) called back and had the Jaguars not missed a field-goal.

The Jaguars picked up right where they left off in the second half. After forcing an East Gaston fumble, they went right back to work. Neal scored on his second touchdown run, making it 48-0.

The Warriors did have a few bright spots and were not shutout thanks to a Dontavis Walker five-yard touchdown run. An Alex Adams pass to Charles Brewington a two-point conversion made it 48-8. But that would be all the hightlights for East Gaston.

Colton Rouse nailed a 23-yard field-goal to make it 51-8. And Josh Dawkins scored on two 11-yard touchdown runs to make the final score 65-8.

“It’s been a rough three weeks.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said “But we got some momentum going into the playoffs. We played well tonight.”

Medlin on Logan Bradley’s absence “We had to do a few things different. We had to put more emphasis on the run. J.C. (Crawford) did really well on a short week of practice.”

Medlin also said that he feels confindent that Bradley will be back in the lineup for the playoffs which start next week. “Coming into tonight, I felt confident that we had a chance to get that fourth victory.” East Gaston head coach Sean Joyce said “I think Forestview did a great job, lining up in the “I”. We were prepared for the 4-wide, 5-wide empty. I take blame for not preparing the guys.”

Forestview waits to find out later on today who they will be matched against.

Crest’s defense holds off strong Burns offense in second half

It was a tail of two halves. In the first half, neither defense could stop the other team’s offense. In the second half, neither offense could get going. Crest led 21-14 at half-time and came away with a 21-17 victory after it was all said and done.

Jalen Moore scored all three of Crest’s touchdowns. His first score was a short pass from P.J. Brooks in which he took 65 yards for a touchdown. He then scored on runs of four and three. Burns though punched first when quarterback Chris Montgomery hit Denzel Gullatte for a 15-yard touchdown pass.

After Crest tied the game with Moore’s 65-yard touchdown reception, Burns retook the lead with a Montgomery 16-yard rush for a touchdown. It was 14-7 right then, but that would be the last time the Bulldogs took the lead.

Late in the fourth quarter, turnovers doomed Burns. Montgomery was intercepted on a deep pass by Jordan Oakes. With less than three minutes to go, was picked off again by Omar Brooks with a one-handed tipped interception.

“Both teams played hard and both teams played clean.” Burns head coach Matt Beam said “We had trouble stopping them early on but didn’t let them get much in the second half. But we had two picks. Hats off to Crest!”

“We’re going to get better. We’re going to go back to practice. That’s all we can do.”

“We beat a good team. They’re a quality team.” Crest head coach Mark Barnes said “It surprised a lot of people but not us. Got to give our players a lot of credit.”

“People got to give our defense credit. Everybody’s been down on our defense all year long. They only gave up 17 points tonight. We knew it was in them.”

Crest wraps up a share of the SMAC 3A-2A conference title with the win. They can win it outright with a win at cross-town rival, Shelby, next week. If they lose and Burns beats R-S Central at home, then it would be a 3-way tie for the SMAC conference title.

Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland County Week 11 Picks

Game of the Week: Burns (9-0)(6-0) @ Crest (8-1)(6-0): The Battle for Cleveland County and the battle for the conference title are on the line tonight as Burns travels to Crest. Burns will remain the top 3A team in the conference with a win. Burns will still be able to hold a share of it with a loss if Crest stumbles at Shelby next week.

My pick: Burns 30 – Crest 27

Hunter Huss (3-6)(2-2) @ Forestview (6-3)(2-2): The Jaguars try and stop a two-game skid while Huss tries to keep their two-game winning streak going.

My pick: Forestview 34 – Hunter Huss 20

South Point (10-0)(5-0) @ North Gaston (5-4)(1-3): After starting the season 5-0, the Wildcats have fallen hard losing four straight. It’ll get worse before it gets better for the Wildcats and South Point caps off another undefeated regular season.

My pick: South Point 49 – North Gaston 14

Ashbrook (6-3)(3-1) @ Lake Norman Charter (5-4)(0-4): After avoiding a loss to Forestview last week, the Green Wave have no problems against a struggling Lake Norman Charter squad tonight.

My pick: Ashbrook 56 – Lake Norman Charter 6

Shelby (6-3)(5-1) @ Draughn (3-6)(3-3): After suffering their first conference loss two weeks ago, Shelby looks to get back on track against a struggling Draughn team. Coming off a bye week the Golden Lions should be well rested and ready to go.

My pick: Shelby 38 – Draughn 13

Bessemer City (5-4)(3-0) @ Highland Tech (1-8)(1-2): Bessemer City has been on a roll since conference play started and should continue to roll against the Rams tonight.

My pick: Bessemer City 40 – Highland Tech 6

Community School of Davidson (3-6)(2-1) @ Cherryville (3-6)(2-1): A playoff berth is on the line tonight between these two. The winner can punch their ticket tonight, the loser waits.

My pick: Cherryville 21 – Community School of Davidson 14

Maiden (9-0)(5-0) @ East Lincoln (5-4)(5-0): East Lincoln has an 8-1 record on the field but forfeitures early in the season took three nonconference wins away. All that can be forgotten if they can knock off Maiden and claim a share of the conference title tonight. This should be a game worth watching tonight.

My pick: East Lincoln 28 – Maiden 21

Lincolnton (6-3)(4-1) @ West Caldwell (1-9)(0-5): Lincolnton should not have any trouble against West Caldwell tonight.

My pick: Lincolnton 42 – West Caldwell 6

Bandys (3-6)(1-4) @ West Lincoln (7-2)(3-2): West Lincoln looks to get back on track after a 17-3 setback against Maiden last week. The Rebels hope to avoid two consecutive losses and Bandys is hoping to get a playoff spot tonight.

My pick: West Lincoln 31 – Bandys 24

North Lincoln (3-6)(1-4) @ Statesville (4-5)(3-2): It’s been a struggle for North Lincoln this year. Statesville has had a rough go of it at times this year, too. But the Greyhounds should prevail in this one.

My pick: Statesville 41 – North Lincoln 20

Ashbrook prevails in turnover plagued match-up against arch-rival Forestview

Somebody was bound to win this game. Somebody was bound to lose this game, too. It would end up being the Green Wave as they held off Forestview’s last drive to sustain a 34-31 victory at William Eccles Field. This game was a tail of momentum swings after another.

Each time it looked like Ashbrook would extend their lead past ten, momentum swung the Jaguars’ way. Each time Forestview was poised to take the lead, momentum swung back the Green Wave. Each team was plagued with three turnovers. Ashbrook had two intercpetions and fumble. One was returned for a touchdown. Forestview had three interceptions. One of those was also returned for a touchdown.

Ashbrook got things when quarterback Austin Mitchell hit Isaiah Burris for a 21 yard touchdown reception. The kick was blocked though. The Jaguars quickly answered that with a 25-yard touchdown run by Montavis Rogers. After a bad punt snap put Forestview at Ashbrook’s five-yard line, the Green Wave defense was able to keep Forestview out of the end-zone. But Colton Rouse’s kick gave Forestview a 7-6 lead.

Ashbrook immediately took the lead back with an Isaac Wright 96-yard kickoff return for a touchdown. Matt Cloyd’s extra point made it 13-7. Forestview would cut Ashbrook’s lead later in the second quarter with a 38-yard field-goal by Rouse.

Ashbrook extended their lead to ten when Mitchell hit Tre Brice for a 31-yard touchdown reception. The Jaguars would once again cut that lead. Logan Bradley called his own number from the 6-yard line and took in the end-zone from there. The score was 20-17 at that point. After stopping Ashbrook on the next drive Forestview would shoot themselves in the foot when Logan Bradley threw an interception to Isaac Wright and he took it 56-yars for a touchdown.

Forestview would get the scoring started in the second half when C.J. Bumgardner returned an interception 60 yards for a touchdown. That cut the Green Wave lead to 27-24. Kristien Bell’s one-yard touchdown run late in the third quarter gave Ashbrook a ten-point lead again. Bradley finally got his first touchdown pass in the fourth quarter when he hit Moe Neal for a 58-yard touchdown reception.

Following an Ashbrook fumble late in the game, Forestview would drive all the way down to the Green Wave 11-yard line, but were stopped. The would-be game-tying field-goal came up short and Ashbrook walked away with a 34-31 victory to remain in second place in the Big South.

Ashbrook travels to Lake Norman Charter next week. Forestview will be back at home against Hunter Huss.

Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland Week 10 Picks

Game of the Week: Forestview (6-2)(2-1) @ Ashbrook (5-3)(2-1): Forestview watched their 6-game winning streak fade last week as they once again bowed to South Point in a 49-34 decision. Ashbrook got back on track after their loss to South Point by smashing East Gaston 49-0. The battle for second place in the conference is on the line tonight. The winner of this game should still be able to host a playoff game. The loser may be able to depending on how many teams are above them in their subdivision. Ashbrook won last year’s game on a last-minute touchdown that gave them a 40-36 victory. This game should be just as exciting.

My pick: Forestview 27 – Ashbrook 24

North Gaston (5-3)(1-2) @ East Gaston (2-6)(1-3)**: East Gaston picked up another win this week, but it wasn’t on the football field. They were awarded a win after East Lincoln forfeit their first three games of the year. Last week however, they were hammered 49-0. North Gaston is trying to stop their three-game skid after starting 5-0. The Wildcats should be able to get back to their winning ways tonight.

My pick: North Gaston 42 – East Gaston 7

Lake Norman Charter (5-3)(0-3) @ South Point (8-1)(4-0): This looks like an accident waiting to happen. The Knights have been outscored by an average margin of around 42 points in their past three games. South Point has been averaging 45 points a game. This game will get out hand pretty quick.

My pick: South Point 63 – Lake Norman Charter 0

West Caldwell (1-7)(0-4) @ East Lincoln (4-4)(4-0)*: East Lincoln found out earlier this week that they would have to forfeit three wins this season. The good news though is that none of them are conference games. The bad news though is that it will likely knock their playoff seeding down a notch or two. Tonight they face a 1-7 West Caldwell team as they continue their quest for another conference championship. They should not have any problems with the Warriors.

My pick: East Lincoln 45 – West Caldwell 7

Newton-Conover (2-6)(1-3) @ Lincolnton (5-3)(3-1): The Wolves continue to get better every week. The Red Devils continue to struggle as things are just coming apart for them. Last week, they gave up 41 points in one half in their 48-7 loss to East Lincoln. Lincolnton is on a two-game winning streak and could still be able to hold a share of the District 7 conference title if they win out and Maiden beats East Lincoln.

My pick: Lincolnton 38 – Newton-Conover 7

West Lincoln (7-1)(3-1) @ Maiden (8-0)(4-0): The Rebels are off to another promising start and are looking for first 8-1 start in team history. But they have a tall task against undefeated Maiden. Maiden barely got by Bandys last week in their 21-19 win, so the Rebels feel like there is hope. A win over the Blue Devils would be a huge step toward getting a share of the conference title.

My pick: Maiden 28 – West Lincoln 24

Lake Norman (6-2)(4-0) @ North Lincoln (3-5)(1-3)**: North Lincoln is another team that benefited from East Lincoln’s forfeitures. So another win they can meet the minimal qualifications for a playoff bid. Don’t expect them to get that tonight against a dangerous Lake Norman team.

My pick: Lake Norman 48 – North Lincoln 13

Draughn (3-6)(2-4) @ Burns (8-0)(5-0): The Bulldogs survived a shootout with county rival, Shelby, last week in a 38-34 win to stay undefeated. Now Burns focuses their attention on Draughn. The Wildcats have won three out of their last five games after starting 0-4. But the Bulldogs streak should continue tonight.

My pick: Burns 40 – Draughn 13

Crest (7-1)(5-0) @ East Rutherford (3-5)(3-2): The Chargers continue their quest for a conference title. The Cavaliers are hoping to keep their playoff hopes alive. It’s been an up-and-down ride for them this year. They too have won three out of their last five games. But they will definitely have a hard time against this dangerous Crest team.

My pick: Crest 34 – East Rutherford 7

Chase (4-4)(1-4) @ Kings Mountain (2-7)(0-6): Kings Mountain’s struggles continue. Chase has also had a disappointing season but are coming off a 14-13 win over North Gaston. A win for the Trojans just about solidifies a playoff spot for them.

My pick: Chase 35 – Kings Mountain 13

Thomas Jefferson (6-2)(1-1) @ Bessemer City (4-4)(2-0): The Yellow Jackets are off to a good start in conference play at 2-0. Jefferson got tripped last week as they were upset by Community School of Davidson 9-7. Could they be in position to rebound against Bessemer City?

My pick: Bessemer City 21 – Thomas Jefferson 17

Cherryville (2-6)(1-1) @ Pine Lake Prep (0-7)(0-2): The Ironmen are looking to edge closer to a playoff eligibility. Pine Lake Prep is hoping to get a win. Look for Cherryville to get their third win tonight.

My pick: Cherryville 41 – Pine Lake Prep 6

Highland Tech (1-7)(1-1) @ Community School of Davidson (2-8)(1-1): The Community School of Davidson picked up their first conference win last week in a 9-7 upset of Thomas Jefferson. Look for it to be two in a row against the Rams. My pick: Community School of Davidson 34 – Highland Tech 6

(*) = forfeit loss

(**) – forfeit win

Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland Week 9 Picks

Game of the Week: South Point (8-0)(3-0) @ Forestview (6-1)(2-0): Expect a sellout crowd at this one. This game will likely decide the conference title. The Red Raiders, just two weeks ago, were held under 30 points for the first time as they edged Hunter Huss 28-27 in overtime. They then bounced back with a 48-14 beating of Ashbrook. Forestview has been rolling through opponents these past three weeks, scoring points points of 63, 66 and 55. But the Red Raiders will be a huge test for this high-powered Jaguar squad. The Jaguars average 52 points a game. South Point averages 44. This one should be a really tight ball game and one should not be surprised if it takes overtime to decide the winner of this game.

My pick: South Point 45 – Forestview 42

Burns (7-0)(4-0) @ Shelby (6-2)(5-0): This will be another battle for a conference championship. The Burns Bulldogs have not been beat yet this year. The Golden Lions lost two games at the start of the season but since then have mustered up five straight wins. Burns averages 37 points a game. Shelby averages 39. The Bulldogs are coming off a bye week so they may have a slight advantage given they had an extra week to prepare. But this game should come down to the wire.

My pick: Burns 38 – Shelby 35

East Gaston (1-6)(1-2) @ Ashbrook (4-3)(2-1): Ashbrook saw their four-game winning streak go down hard at the hands of the South Point Red Raiders last week in a 48-14 trouncing. Now they hope to put that behind them as they host a struggling East Gaston team. The Warriors’ struggles continue as they dropped last week’s game against Hunter Huss 41-7. The Green Wave should have no problems getting back on track tonight.

My pick: Ashbrook 42 – East Gaston 7

Hunter Huss (2-6)(1-2) @ Lake Norman Charter (5-2)(0-2): The Big South just has not been kind to the Lake Norman Charter Knights. Hunter Huss is finding their stride after such a brutal nonconference schedule. Huss got their first conference win last week against East Gaston 41-7 and they are poised to get their second win in a row. A victory here will likely make them the top 2A team in the Big South in terms of playoff seedings.

My pick: Hunter Huss 48 – Lake Norman Charter 7

North Gaston (5-2)(1-2) @ Chase (3-4)(1-3): North Gaston takes a break from conference play as they travel to take on Chase. The Wildcats will look to rebound from their two consecutive losses to Forestview and Ashbrook. The Trojans have really struggled this year after starting the season off 2-0. The Wildcats should be able to get back to their winning ways tonight.

My pick: North Gaston 35 – Chase 20

East Lincoln (6-1)(3-0) @ Newton-Conover (2-5)(1-2): East Lincoln hopes to keep their conference winning streak alive heading into Newton-Conover. The Red Devils, however, have struggled and their struggles appear to be getting worse and worse. The Mustangs barely got past Bunker Hill last week at home 14-10, but that might have just woke them up.

My pick: East Lincoln 42 – Newton-Conover 14

Lincolnton (4-3)(2-1) @ Bunker Hill (4-3)(0-3): Both teams match each other in their overall record. But one of them has yet to get a conference victory. The Wolves have had an up-and-down year and are looking for some consistency. The Bears, after starting the season 4-0, are trying to stop their three-game losing streak. Look for this one to be a hard-fought game between the two.

My pick: Bunker Hill 21 – Lincolnton 17

West Caldwell (1-6)(0-3) @ West Lincoln (6-1)(2-1): The Rebels are hoping for their second 7-1 start in four years. The last time they started 7-1 was in 2010 when they finished 8-4 including a first round exit from the playoffs. They should not have any trouble against a struggling West Caldwell team.

My pick: West Lincoln 34 – West Caldwell 7

Mooresville (6-1)(3-0) @ North Lincoln (2-5)(1-2): North Lincoln hopes to pick up their third win of the year. But that will be a tall task against a dangerous Mooresville team. The Blue Devils struggled last week against Alexander Central in their 28-23 win. But the Knights will still likely have a long night ahead.

My pick: Mooresville 35 – North Lincoln 7

Pine Lake Prep (0-6)(0-1) @ Bessemer City (3-4)(1-0): Bessemer City started conference play off on the right foot last week with their 38-30 win over the Community School of Davidson. They should be able to keep that going against Pine Lake Prep.

My pick: Bessemer City 45 – Pine Lake Prep 7

Cherryville (1-6)(0-1) @ Highland Tech (1-6)(1-0): Highland Tech broke a long losing streak last week in their 13-9 win over Pine Lake Prep. Don’t look for that good fortune to continue as they host Cherryville tonight.

My pick: Cherryville 35 – Highland Tech 7

East Burke (1-6)(0-4) @ Crest (6-1)(4-0): This looks like an accident waiting to happen. The Cavaliers of East Burke have had more than their share of struggles while the Chargers have been on a roll winning six straight. This game could get ugly fast.

My pick: Crest 51 – East Burke 7

Kings Mountain (2-6)(0-5) @ R-S Central (2-4)(1-3): Neither team is having a season they would like to remember. The Mountaineers have lost six consecutive games after starting 2-0. R-S Central, however, did get a conference win last week in their 14-7 win at Chase. The winner of this game can put themselves one more step toward being playoff eligible though.

MY pick: R-S Central 21 – Kings Mountain 14

Forestview runs wild over North Gaston

The Jaguars started fast and never looked back as they opened up with a 28-8 first quarter lead en route to a 55-22 thrashing of the Wildcats, ruining North Gaston’s homecoming. The Wildcats were their own undoing with five turnovers.

Jaguars quarterback Logan Bradley had another big night as he threw for six touchdowns and tallied up 343 passing yards. Mykelti Armstrong, Isaiah Sanders, C.J. Bumgardner and Caleb Mills all hauled in reception touchdowns for Forestview. Armstrong hauled in three. Moe Neal scored Forestview’s only rushing touchdown in the first half. Bradley did have an interception in the second quarter. The Jaguars were also plagued with penalties that resulted in two touchdowns being called back.

North Gaston’s only lead of the game came in the first quarter when Nick Haskins ran in a touchdown from nine yards out and scored on the two-point conversion to make it 8-7. Haskins would leave the game due to injury later in the second quarter.

Alex Patton sored the Wildcats other scores. He scored on a one-yard plunge that cut Forestview’s lead to 28-15 in the first half and an oh-by-the-way touchdown late in the fourth quarter from the ten-yard line.

“We played well.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said “North Gaston has got a good team and are very physical. It helps when you get turnovers. We had one tonight, but for the most part we took care of the ball. We still got to clean up the penalties.” Said Medlin about the upcoming home game against South Point next week “It’s going to be a challenge. It’s going to being game.”

South Point whipped Ashbrook 48-14 tonight.

“We played a great team offensively and defensively.” North Gaston head coach Mike Patton said “They got a lot of weapons on offense. But you can’t win when you turn the ball over.”

Patton said that Haskins will undergo x-rays on his injured hand to determine the severity of the injury. He also praised back-up quarterback, Alex Patton, whom filled in after Haskins’s departure.

“Alex knows football. He understands the offense and knows defenses. He’s our best split-end and he plays safety so we are going to have to adjust.”

The Wildcats travel to Chase next week. They fell 14-7 to R-S Central.

Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland Week 8 Picks

South Point (7-0)(2-0) @ Ashbrook (4-2)(1-0): South Point dodged a bullet last week when they escaped Hunter Huss with a 28-27 overtime victory. The Red Raiders trailed 21-14 in the fourth quarter in that game. The Ashbrook Green Wave carries a four-game winning streak into Lineberger Stadium tonight. Last week, they snapped North Gaston’s five-game winning streak and denied them a chance to go 6-0 for the first time in school history. Now they try and avoid getting their own winning streak snapped. The Red Raiders were plagued with three turnovers against Huss last week and they will need to clean that up in order to derail a hot Ashbrook team. Last week, the Green Wave forced four turnovers against a North Gaston team that previously only had one. This should be one for the county to watch.

My pick: South Point 28 – Ashbrook 21

Forestview (5-1)(1-0) @ North Gaston (5-1)(1-1): North Gaston saw their five-game winning streak vanish as they were dealt a crushing 35-14 loss to Ashbrook. Forestview is coming off two consecutive record breaking scoring games in which they scored 63 and 66. But against a stronger North Gaston squad, they will find scoring such points a more challenging task. North Gaston will try and avoid consecutive losses.

My pick: Forestview 35 – North Gaston 21

Hunter Huss (1-6)(0-2) @ East Gaston (1-5)(1-1): It’s been a struggle for both teams this year. However, the Warriors finally picked up their first win of the season with a 33-7 drubbing of Lake Norman Charter. Hunter Huss almost got another elusive win last week but fell 28-27 in overtime to conference front-runner, South Point. This game should go to the Huskies.

My pick: Hunter Huss 35 – East Gaston 17

Bandys (3-3)(1-1) @ Lincolnton (3-3)(1-1): Lincolnton is looking to rebound from their home loss to East Lincoln. Bandys is hoping to avoid losing four of five games. Barely beating a winless West Caldwell team last week may not bode well coming into tonight’s game against a hungry Lincolnton team.

My pick: Lincolnton 31 – Bandys 13

West Lincoln (5-1)(1-1) @ Newton-Conover (2-4)(1-1): West Lincoln rebounded from their only loss of the season as they edged Bunker Hill 20-16. They travel to take on a hungry Newton-Conover team. The Red Devils dropped a tough one to Maiden last week 23-9 but could be ready for the Rebels. This one could go down to the wire.

My pick: West Lincoln 23 – Newton-Conover 20

Bunker Hill (4-2)(0-2) @ East Lincoln (5-1)(2-0): East Lincoln is showing more and more why they are favored to win the conference, even though Maiden will have something to say about that. Bunker Hill is coming off of two consecutive losses and may have a hard time rebounding against the Mustang squad.

My pick: East Lincoln 34 – Bunker Hill 20

Shelby (5-2)(4-0) @ East Rutherford (2-4)(2-1): The Shelby Golden Lions have won five straight games since starting 1-2. The Cavaliers are hoping to keep pace with them. They were shut out at Burns last week and will have just as tough of a time against Shelby.

My pick: Shelby 38 – East Rutherford 14

Crest (5-1)(3-0) @ Kings Mountain (2-5)(0-4): Kings Mountain is hoping to stop the bleeding after losing four in a row. Crest, on the other hand, has won five in a row. Both teams are heading in opposite directions and there’s no reason to expect any different tonight.

My pick: Crest 37 – Kings Mountain 14

North Lincoln (1-5)(0-2) @ North Iredell (4-2)(1-1): North Lincoln continues to struggle this year. North Iredell, on the other hand, has improved from their 2-9 performance from last year. This will likely be another tough one for the Knights.

My pick: North Iredell 35 – North Lincoln 14

Thomas Jefferson (5-1)(0-0) @ Cherryville (1-5)(0-0): Both teams open conference play tonight. The Ironmen have had a tough go of it so far at 1-5 while the Gryphons have put together a solid 5-1 season. Coming off a bye week, could Cherryville be rejuvenated and make a run at a conference title or will Jefferson be just too much for them?

My pick: Thomas Jefferson 31 – Cherryville 14

Community School of Davidson (1-5)(0-0) @ Bessemer City (2-4)(0-0): After surrendering a whopping 66 points last week, the Yellow Jackets are hoping to move forward and focus on conference play. Community School of Davidson has also had a rough time of it. Bessemer City could pick up their third win of the season tonight. My pick: Bessemer City 28 – Community School of Davidson 7 Pine Lake Prep (0-5) @ Highland Tech (0-6): Which team will get their first win of the season? The Rams have scored no more than seven in any of their games and have been shut out thrice. The Pride have scored double-digits twice but have also had a hard time scoring too.

My pick: Pine Lake Prep 28 – Highland Tech 12

Jaguars set another scoring record amidst coaches’ return

With the return of head coach Chris Medlin and assistant Jon Putnam on the sidelines, Forestview picked up right where they left off last week – winning big and setting scoring records. This time, the record hits 66 in their 66-7 win against Bessemer City.

The score was tied 7-7 early in the first quarter, but Forestview took control from there and led 38-7 at half-time. The Jaguar defense got the scoring started when C.J. Bumgardner recovered a Bessemer City fumbled and returned it ten yards for a touchdown. The Yellow Jackets answered with a score of their own as Cedric Mackey scored their only touchdown on the ensuing drive.

Then it was the Logan Bradley show. The quarterback threw six touchdown passes and amassed 287 yards through the air. Three of his touchdown passes were to Mykelti Armstrong from yards of 35, 8 and 29. Isaiah Sanders caught one from three yards out, Moe Neal from 30 yards out and C.J. Bumgardner from five yards. That breaks Bradley’s previous record of five touchdown passes.

Armstrong also had a 40-yard punt return for a touchdown. Josh Dawkins closed out the night with a 16-yard touchdown run. Kicker Colton Rouse was 9-for-9 on his extra points and also nailed a 22-yard field-goal late in the second quarter.

“I was proud of them. I thought they played great.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said “We got to keep getting better. There are still some things we can go back and correct.”

This was the first of three consecutive teams that Forestview faces this year that runs the Triple-Option/Double-Wing offense. The Jaguars will be facing that offense when they travel to North Gaston next week and then return home against South Point.

“That should help us playing that (triple-option) 2-3 weeks in a row.” Medlin commented.

“The kids played hard.” Bessemer City head coach Larry Boone said “We did about all we could do.”

Boone is happy to start conference play next week as his Yellow Jackets open with the Community School of Davidson.

“We start conference next week and start playing schools our size. These kids have prepared and played bigger schools.”

No doubt about that. The Yellow Jackets played 3A teams Forestview, North Gaston and North Lincoln and 2A program Hunter Huss. They also faced conference foes, Cherryville and Highland Tech, in nonconference matchups.

Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland Week 7 Picks

Game of the Week: North Gaston (5-0)(1-0) @ Ashbrook (3-2)(0-0): North Gaston opened conference play last week by picking up their first conference win since 2007. That snaps a 31 conference game losing streak. But they will have their hands full against a dangerous Ashbrook team. The Green Wave pitched a shutout last week against Cuthbertson. The Green Wave’s defense is pretty sting but the Wildcats offense has only turned the ball over once this year.

My pick: Ashbrook 28 – North Gaston 21

South Point (6-0)(1-0) @ Hunter Huss (1-5)(0-1): The records for these two teams just might indicate what a mismatch this game will be. Hunter Huss fell to North Gaston last week in their conference opener. South Point will be an extremely difficult team to rebound against. The Red Raiders put up 46 points a game. In only two of those games did the Red Raiders allow over 20 points.

My pick: South Point 49 – Hunter Huss 14

Bessemer City (2-3)(0-0) @ Forestview (4-1)(1-0): The Jaguars scored a team record 63 points last week against Lake Norman Charter. The Yellow Jackets were on a bye last week, but came off their best performance of the year in a 44-6 rout of Highland Tech. However, the Jaguars will be the biggest challenge that Bessemer City has faced all year and could be in for a long night.

My pick: Forestview 56 – Bessemer City 14

East Gaston (0-5)(0-1) @ Lake Norman Charter (5-1)(0-1): The Lake Norman Charter Knights got a rude welcome into the Big South as they were hammered 63-7 by Forestview last week. The Warriors, however, have struggled all year and gave up 56 points last week in their 56-7 loss to South Point.

My pick: Lake Norman Charter 24 – East Gaston 21

West Lincoln (4-1)(0-1) @ Bunker Hill (4-1)(0-1): Both teams started the season 4-0, but were tripped up in their first conference game. The Rebels lost a tough one last week to Lincolnton 21-13. The Bears lost 38-17 to unbeaten Maiden. Which one will rebound and continue their winning ways?

My pick: Bunker Hill 27-20

East Lincoln (4-1)(1-0) @ Lincolnton (3-2)(1-0): The Mustangs rebounded from their only loss of the season big-time as they bounced Bandys 55-26 to open conference play. Lincolnton opened conference play with a win as well. The Wolves have had their share of struggles so far this year, but could give the hot Mustangs a good game.

My pick: East Lincoln 34 – Lincolnton 24

North Lincoln (1-4)(0-1) @ Alexander Central (2-3)(0-1): North Lincoln suffered their worst loss of the year last week as they were shut down by South Iredell 48-0. They will look to rebound against the Cougars of Alexander Central.

My pick: Alexander Central 28 – North Lincoln 14

Chase (3-2)(1-2) @ Crest (4-1)(2-0): The Chargers struggled early on against R-S Central last week, but pulled away for a 33-17 win. Chase snapped their two-game losing streak last week as they got by Draughn 13-7. But beating the Wildcats by that thin of a margin may not bode well for the Trojans coming into this game with a dangerous Crest team.

My pick: Crest 42 – Chase 20

Kings Mountain (2-4)(0-3) @ Draughn (1-4)(1-2): Kings Mountain is hoping to stop the bleeding of losing four straight games. Draughn is hoping to pick up their second win of the year. The odds likely favor the Mountaineers in this one.

My pick: Kings Mountain 35 – Draughn 14

East Burke (1-4)(0-2) @ Shelby (4-2)(3-0): Don’t look for Shelby to face much of a challenge in this game. The Golden Lions have been on fire winning three consecutive games. East Burke could be in for a long night.

My pick: Shelby 42 – East Burke 12

East Rutherford (2-3)(2-0) @ Burns (6-0)(3-0): The Bulldogs bring their winning streak back home as they face East Rutherford. The Cavaliers are unbeaten in league play, but will have a hard time against Burns. Of course Burns survived a scare two weeks ago against county rival, Kings Mountain.

My pick: Burns 45 – East Rutherford 20

Thomas Jefferson (4-1)(0-0) @ Highland Tech (0-5)(0-0): Highland Tech faces another conference foe in a nonconference match-up. The Rams are still yet to get their first win of the season.

My pick: Thomas Jefferson 48 – Highland Tech 0

Jaguars overcome off-field adversity, roll to a record-setting defeat of Lake Norman Charter

Without their head coach and an assistant, and without two key starters (one on each side), many wondered how Forestview would respond to the challenge as they faced an unbeaten Lake Norman Charter. Those questions were answered in a big way as they smashed the Knights 63-7. The win also breaks the previous record of points scored by the team. That was set in 2003 when they beat Berry Academy 61-0.

The Jaguars raced out to a 28-0 lead in the first quarter. In fact, the first time Forestview had the ball they scored on their first play. The play was a Logan Bradley 33-yard touchdown strike to Moe Neal. Bradley, on the next drive, found his other top target (Mykelti Armstrong) for a 47-yard touchdown reception.

A backwards pass of Lake Norman Charter that was recovered by Forestview’s C.J. Bumgardner at the one-yard line gave Forestview a chance to put another score up. This time it would be Montavis Rogers that punches it in from the one-yard line. He also ran it in for a two-point score. Special teams got in on the fun too as J.C. Crawford picked up a low punt and returned it 21 yards for another Jaguar touchdown.

Bradley would connect with Armstrong again early in the second quarter, this time from ten yards out. Colton Rouse’s kick made it 35-0. The Knights did have a few bright spots and they were able to avoid a shutout thanks to Michael Dorsainvil four-yard touchdown pass to Petey Fabian.

After that, the night belonged to Forestview. On the Jaguars first possession in the second half, they would score. This time it was Rogers taking it in from 58 yards for the score. Rogers scored on another two-point try. Lake Norman Charter looked like they were going to answer the score, but they fumbled in their red-zone and Storm Payne scooped up the loose ball and took it deep into Knights’ territory. Bradley would cap off the drive with an eight-yard pass to Moe Neal. Neal’s run for the two-point conversion gave the Jaguars a 51-7 lead.

Once again the Knights would get close but could not taste the end-zone as Forestview stopped them at the three-yard line. Backed-up near their own goal-line the Jaguars turn to their run game and it resulted in a Neal 97-yard touchdown run to put the score at 57-7.

That would be it for the starters. Josh Dawkins (normally a starting defensive-back) took over the runningback roll late in the game and ended up putting Forestview’s record-setting score on the board with a nine-yard run.

Rogers tallied up 101 yards rushing and two touchdowns on the night. Neal tallied up 193 all-purpose yards (105 yards rushing and 88 yards receiving) and three touchdowns. Logan Bradley passed for 173 yards and four touchdowns. Marcus McCluney, Wesley Heavner, Tate Payne, Davious Byrd, and Tramone Duncan each had tackles for losses. Payne, McCluney, Heavner, Xzavier Davis, and Nathan Whitaker each registered sacks.

“The team did a great job. They responded on what they needed to.” Jaguars interim head coach Dave Faquharson said “That’s what a team is supposed to do, to respond to adversity and take some ownership of the team. When you start tearing down the foundation, we got to reach down deep and see what they’re made of. It was a hard week for the kids.”

“It’s unfortunate.” Quarterback Logan Bradley said of the events that transpired during the week “Medlin not being there was scary, but our coached did well. (Coach) Farquharson did a good job leading the team. (Coach) Rayfield did a good job with the offense and (Coach) Hall did a good job with the defense. The seniors were a big help and they would not let the team get down on themselves. I think we showed everybody that we can pull together under adversity.”

The Jaguars will welcome back head coach Chris Medlin and assistant Jon Putnam back next week and they will take a break from conference play as they host Bessemer City. The Jaguars will resume conference play the following week as they travel to North Gaston. Lake Norman Charter will be home against East Gaston next week.

Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland Week 6 picks

Game of the Week: Lincolnton (4-0) @ West Lincoln (2-2): Both teams will come in well-rested after a bye week. The Rebels are off to a hot 4-0 start while Lincolnton has struggled and are at 2-2. But their two losses came against undefeated teams, South Point (5-0) and North Gaston (4-0). West Lincoln has not faced a team with a winning record, though. They faced one-win teams in Draughn (1-4), North Lincoln (1-3), Cherryville (1-4) and a winless Fred T. Foard team. The Wolves will bring a different challenge for the Rebels as they travel to take on their county rivals.

My pick: Lincolnton 27 – West Lincoln 20

Lake Norman Charter (5-0) @ Forestview (3-1): The Jaguars open conference play with Lake Norman Charter rolling into town. The Knights bring a 5-0 record to Joe Alala Stadium. But their five teams have a combined 5-18 record. Two of them haven’t won a game. The Jaguars, prior to their bye week, knocked off defending 2A state champ East Lincoln 44-27. The Jaguars, however, will miss two key starters and head coach Chris Medlin for tonight’s conference opener. But the Jaguars, having been a little more battle-tested in two of their games should still have the edge.

My pick: Forestview 42 – Lake Norman Charter 21

Hunter Huss (1-4) @ North Gaston (4-0): The Records look lopsided, but one has to consider a couple of things. The Huskies have played a more strenuous nonconference schedule. Three of Huss’s toughest teams (Vance, Rocky River and Burns) have a combined record of 18-2. Nobody on North Gaston’s schedule has a solid winning record. Lincolnton (2-2) is the only team in that group that is at .500. The Wildcats bring a strong triple-option running attack to the table as they host Huss. The Huskies bring a solid passing game to Trudnak Stadium. This one should be a real tight ball game.

My pick: Hunter Huss 28 – North Gaston 21

East Gaston (0-4) @ South Point (5-0): This game could get ugly quick. The Warriors are coming off a 19-14 loss to a previously winless Cherryville squad. They were plagued with seven turnovers last week and have also been hit hard with injuries. It does not help them that they have to travel to face a red-hot South Point team for their traditional “Black Friday” matchup.

My pick: South Point 56 – East Gaston 0

Ashbrook (2-2) @ Cuthbertson (2-3): These two teams are heading in opposite directions. Cuthbertson started the season 2-0, but lost their last three games. On the other hand, Ashbrook started 0-2, but won their final two games prior to last week’s bye week. Cuthbertson is coming off their worst loss of the season, a 57-28 drubbing to Forest Hills.

My pick: Ashbrook 35 – Cuthbertson 21

Cherryville (1-4) @ Parkwood (2-3): Cherryville got their first win of the year last week as they took down East Gaston. But Parkwood will be on a different level than East Gaston.

My pick: Parkwood 34 – Cherryville 14

East Lincoln (3-1) @ Bandys (2-2): East Lincoln had their 19-game winning streak snapped two weeks ago as they dropped a 44-27 game to Forestview. Now coming off their bye week, the Mustangs are looking for a fresh start as they open up conference play with Bandys. The Trojans are looking to snap their two-game losing streak, but the Mustangs may prove too much for them. My pick: East Lincoln 34 – Bandys 20 South Iredell (4-0) @ North Lincoln (1-3): After losing two tough games to county rivals, Lincolnton and West Lincoln, and being blown out by East Lincoln 34-7, the Knights got their first win of the season against Bessemer City a couple weeks ago. But the Knights welcome the 2012 2A state champion, South Iredell, to start conference play. The Vikings have not shown any signs of slowing down either as they are coming off a 56-0 beating of Salisbury.

My pick: South Iredell 42 – North Lincoln 7

Burns (5-0) @ East Burke (1-3): The Bulldogs survived a scare last week as they escaped Kings Mountain 20-15. The Mountaineers led 15-14 with just a minute or so left. The Bulldogs should not have much of a problem as they travel to East Burke.

My pick: Burns 48 – East Burke 6

Shelby (3-2) @ Kings Mountain (2-3): The “Battle of Buffalo” is still alive and well. Shelby won last year’s battle 14-7. That game was also in Kings Mountain. The Mountaineers do not want to lose two in a row at home to their rival. They are also trying to stop a three-game losing skid. They almost overtook conference favorite, Burns, last week as they held a brief 15-14 lead. But the Bulldogs ended up scoring last to win 20-15. The Golden Lions enter this game on a two-game winning streak. Prior to that, they lost two straight. One of those was to South Point, a game which Shelby led 24-14 before losing. This game could go either way.

My pick: Shelby 24 – Kings Mountain 21

Crest (3-1) @ R-S Central (1-3): The Chargers started the season with a 35-16 loss to South Point, but have won three straight since then. R-S Central has had a rough year so far and this could be another long night for the Hilltoppers.

My pick: Crest 42 – R-S Central 14

Highland Tech (0-4) @ Southlake Christian (5-0): Not a favorable matchup for a team still seeking their first win since 2009. This is the second unbeaten team the Rams have faced in three weeks.

My pick: Southlake Christian 50 – Highland Tech 6

Vance’s Rushing Attack Too Much For Huss

After playing stiff competition against teams like Burns and Rocky River, the Huskies had to withstand one more daunting test before conference play starts. That challenge was stopping the Vance rushing attack led by Kyderian Green. He had 197 yards rushing and three touchdowns. But make no mistake, Huss put up a fight.

It did not start really well for Hunter Huss as Kerrion Moore was tackled in the end-zone on the opening kickoff for a safety. The Cougars built on that lead with an eight-yard touchdown run by Green. Then Vance took to the air when quarterback Laquell Thames hit Christian Hatcher for a 55-yard touchdown pass. Just like that it was 15-0.

The Huskies would come to life later in the half when quarterback Andrew Jordan hit Kerrion Moore for a 31-yard touchdown pass. Seth Jones extra point made it 15-7. That would be the score half-time. The Cougars would pick up right where they left off in the second half. Green scored his second touchdown of the night on the first drive of the second half, this time from four yards out. Jake Spiedal’s extra point made it 22-7.

The Huskies would chip away at that lead once again on another Jordan-to-Moore touchdown pass. The lead was back down to eight (22-14). Vance held Moore’s ground game in check but he amounted 177 yards receiving and two touchdowns. But that would not be enough.

Thames’s 40-yard touchdown pass to Trey Foggie and another eight yard touchdown run by Kyderian Green put the game away as Vance leaves Gastonia with a 36-14 win.

Devin Allison and Delmonte McClure combined for three sacks for the Huskies. Dion Eaddy and Raheem Adams each had an interception. The Huskies also recovered a Vance fumble. Vance also had two interceptions and a sack against Hunter Huss.

Along with Green’s 197 yard rushing performance, Thames threw for 153 yards and two touchdowns.

“We came out and did a good job running the football. Our offensive line did a great job.” Vance head coach Keith Wilkes said. He was, however, displeased with the three turnovers (two interceptions and a fumble) that kept Huss in the game in the first half.

“We got a young team. We hung tough out there. The kids came a long way. Our tenth graders are really stepping up and playing tough football.”

“For the most part, we fought hard.” Huss head coach Steve Gardner said “You can’t have dropped balls and leave your defense out there.”

“We got stuff we got to do well. Stop the mistakes on offense and stop the run on defense.”

Though the Huskies had a challenging nonconference schedule, Gardner said his team still expected wins. They will begin conference play next week as they travel to Dallas to face North Gaston. Vance will also open up conference play on the road as they travel to Jay M. Robinson in Concord.

Gaston and Cleveland Week 5 Picks

Game of the Week: South Point (4-0) @ A.C. Reynolds (3-1) – South Point takes their 16-game regular season winning streak to Asheville as they take on the Rockets of A.C. Reynolds. A.C. Reynolds opened the season with a 28-0 loss to West Forsyth but have been on a roll since then. The Red Raiders have only been challenged once this year and that was in their 35-24 come-from-behind win over Shelby after trailing 24-14. Both are coming off blowout wins from last week. Which team will keep their momentum going?

My pick: South Point 42 – A.C. Reynolds 28

Vance (2-1) @ Hunter Huss (1-3) – A brutal schedule continues for Hunter Huss. Vance is coming off a 71-0 rout of Garinger and just the week before that, they gave 4A powerhouse Richmond a competitive ball game. The Huskies played Rocky River tough in the first half before falling 28-17. This will be just as tough a challenge for them.

My pick: Vance 38 – Hunter Huss 21

East Gaston (0-2) @ Cherryville (0-3) – Both teams are seeking their first win of the season. But East Gaston would have the edge in this game. The Warriors are only losing games by an average margin of 16 points. Cherryville’s margin is much bigger and they have allowed 50+ points in three of their losses. This one could get out of hand real quick.

My pick: East Gaston 42 – Cherryville 12

Highland Tech (0-3) @ Bessemer City (1-3) – The Bessemer City Yellow Jackets are seeking their second win of the season against a conference foe in a non-conference match-up. Highland Tech is looking to just get in the win column.

My pick: Bessemer City 34 – Highland Tech 12

Kings Mountain (2-2) @ Burns (4-0) – Kings Mountain is hoping to stop their two-game losing skid. But they are running into a stout Burns team. The Bulldogs routed two previously unbeaten teams in these past two weeks alone (Freedom and Chase). This could be a long night for the Mountaineers.

My pick: Burns 41 – Kings Mountain 21

Crest (2-1) @ T.C. Roberson (2-2) – T.C. Roberson is also hoping to halt a two-game losing streak. But they too could have their hands full as they host Crest. The Rams are coming off a 31-21 loss to Ashbrook. Whereas Crest handled Draughn 39-6. This one could be a tight ball game.

My pick: Crest 24 – T.C. Roberson 14

Chase (2-1) @ Shelby (2-2) – Chase saw their 2-0 start vanish in thin air as they were dropkicked by Burns 48-9. The Trojans hope to rebound from that as they travel to Shelby. Shelby, on the other hand, had no problem with R-S Central as they throttled the Hilltoppers 45-14. Will Chase be able to rebound from last week’s crushing defeat?

My pick: Shelby 42 – Chase 28

Forestview snaps East Lincoln’s 19-game winning streak

Both teams entered this game knowing it would be a test. The Jaguars were faced with a task of trying to stop East Lincoln’s 19-game winning streak and slowing down Mustang quarterback Chaz Surratt and company. The Mustangs were faced with the task of slowing down Forestview’s high-powered offense led by quarterback Logan Bradley and runningback Bishop Ford.

Early in the game, it would be the defenses that set the tone. The Mustangs would turn it over on their first two drives and the Jaguars turned it over on their second drive as well. In fact, the first score of the game would be by the defense. The Jaguars forced a safety on East Lincoln to get on the board with a 2-0 lead. On the ensuing drive, the offense got on the board too. Logan Bradley connected with Moe Neal for a 29-yard touchdown pass. Just like that, it was 9-0.

The Mustangs went to work and cut Forestview’s lead to 9-7 with a Surratt 80-yard touchdown pass to Chris Tomberlin. The Mustangs would be poised to take the lead later in the second quarter, but fumbled the ball just short of the goal-line. But they would redeem themselves before half-time when Surratt punched it in from the one-yard line. The Mustangs took a 13-9 lead into the break.

Surratt would extend the Mustangs’ lead to 20-9 with a three-yard touchdown run. But that would be the end of their fun as the Jaguars would go on a tear from there. Logan Bradley led his Jaguars to a come-back with three touchdown passes. Two to Mykelti Armstrong (from 24 yards out and 13 yards out) and Moe Neal (35 yards). Bradley’s 35-yard touchdown connection to Neal gave the Jaguars the 23-20 lead early in the fourth quarter. Armstrong’s 13-yard touchdown reception extended Forestview’s lead to 30-20.

The Mustangs were not done yet. Surratt continued using his feet to get the Mustangs back in it. His eight-yard touchdown run cut Forestview’s lead to 30-27. But East Lincoln’s defense could not hold. On fourth-and-goal from the two-yard line, Montavis Rogers punched it in and gave the Jaguars a 37-27 advantage. A sack and forced fumble by Jarvis Jeffries and the recovery by Garrett Robinson of Forestview gave the Jaguars one more chance to put points on the board. And they do with another Bradley-to-Armstrong connection. This time from ten-yards out. Kicker Colton Rouse was perfect on his extra points, going 6-for-6.

Forestview had two turnovers on the night (one fumble and one interception) while East Lincoln had five (four fumbles and one interception).

“We got tired and we were not as deep as they were.” East Lincoln head coach Mike Byus said “You got to run some fresh bodies out there. We just didn’t have the depth (due to injuries). We got to get healthy and we got to execute better.”

“That’s why we play two halves.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said “They played a complete game and responded to the challenge. I am proud of them.”

Said Medlin about his defense that forced five turnovers “We played well on defense. We bent and bent, but we stood up when we had to.”

On Logan Bradley’s five-touchdown performance “Logan stepped up to the challenge. He showed the type of leadership that he was capable of. I’m proud of him.”

Both teams will have a bye week next week before opening conference play. Forestview will be home against Lake Norman Charter in two weeks. East Lincoln will travel to Bandys.

“It’s a great time for a bye week.” Medlin said “Have a chance to get some rest and to get healthy.”

Gaston and Lincoln Week 4 Picks

Game of the Week: East Lincoln (3-0) @ Forestview (2-1): This will be one for the fans around the area to watch. The defending 2AA state champs come to Joe Alala Stadium riding a 19-game winning streak and would love to make it to 20. The Jaguars, however, have other ideas. Since their 57-56 loss to Nation Ford, the Jaguars defense has not allowed any more than 14 points in their two games. The Mustangs will bring a bigger challenge for the host Jaguars. They have scored 40 points in their two previous games and have allowed now more than seven points. The Jaguars though, have not been held less than 40 in their previous games. So something is going to have to give.

My pick: Forestview 45 – East Lincoln 38

T.C. Roberson (2-1) @ Ashbrook (1-2): Ashbrook got into the win column last week as they took down Asheville on the road. The Green Wave can make it to .500 as they host T.C. Roberson, another Asheville area squad. Ashbrook has been getting better every week and should be able to withstand a dangerous Rams team.

My pick: Ashbrook 21 – T.C. Roberson 14

Q Foundation (0-2) @ South Point (3-0): The Red Raiders got a scare last week as they survived a tough game from Shelby 35-24. This game against the Q Foundation should bear no such challenge.

My pick: South Point 49 – Q Foundation 6

North Gaston (3-0) @ Cherryville (0-3): North Gaston had to sweat to earn their last two wins as they narrowly beat East Rutherford (43-42) and Lincolnton (10-7). Cherryville has had a difficult time finding a win. Other than their 20-12 loss to conference rival, Bessemer City, none of their other games were even close. This game should be another one of those lopsided affairs. With a win, North Gaston would have their first 4-0 start since 2006.

My pick: North Gaston 42 – Cherryville 6

Rocky River (2-1) @ Hunter Huss (1-2): Hunter Huss got their first win of the season last week as they touted Bessemer City 35-0. But the road gets tougher once again as they play host to Rocky River. The Huskies should be able to compete with the Ravens, but look for the Ravens to pull away late in the game.

My pick: Rocky River 31 – Hunter Huss 21

Bessemer City (1-2) @ North Lincoln (0-3) – The Knights of North Lincoln came so close in two of their games of getting that elusive win. The Yellow Jackets, win one win under their belts, run into their second winless team of the year. Of course, their first win was against a Cherryville team that has given up over 50 points in their other two games. The Knights should be able to get their first win of the season on this night.

My pick: North Lincoln 35 – Bessemer City 6

East Gaston (0-2) @ Lincolnton (1-2): The Lincolnton Wolves hope to get back to their winning ways after two straight losses. The Warriors are hoping to get their first win of the season. The Wolves have scored only seven points in the past two weeks alone. The Warriors though have given up 38.5 points in their two match-ups.

My pick: Lincolnton 28 – East Gaston 14

West Lincoln (3-0) @ Fred T. Foard (0-3): West Lincoln is off to a solid 3-0 start, but they had to battle hard in two of their wins. They travel to face a Fred T. Foard team that has had more than their fair share of struggles. These past two weeks alone the Tigers have only managed two points. One was in a 33-2 loss to Bandys and the other was a game they were shutout 34-0. The Rebels are poised to start the season 4-0.

My pick: West Lincoln 42 – Fred T. Foard 13

Lake Norman Charter (3-0) @ Highland Tech (0-2): The Rams held their first lead of the season last week as they were up 7-0 on First Assembly of Concord. They went on to lose 25-7. Now undefeated Lake Norman Charter, a former conference rival, comes to town. Don’t think the Rams will be holding a lead in this game.

My pick: Lake Norman Charter 48 – Highland Tech 6

Big South 3A/2A Perfect in Week 3

The Big South represented themselves well Friday Night as all teams won their games. Six out of seven of the teams played. East Gaston was on their bye week and did not play. Some of those games were really competitive.

The South Point Red Raiders found themselves down by ten twice in the Shelby game (17-7 and 24-14) and then rallied in the fourth quarter to win 35-24. South Point remains unbeaten at 3-0 on the year.

Ashbrook won for the first time this season, beating Asheville 23-14. Hunter Huss also got their first win of the season as they dominated Bessemer City 35-0.

Forestview continued their dominance on offense and continued to show improvement on defense as they routed Kings Mountain 41-14.

North Gaston found themselves in a scoreless stalemate with Lincolnton at half-time, but came away with a 10-7 victory. The victory was won on a last second field-goal. North Gaston 3-0 for the first-time since their state title season.

New league member, Lake Norman Charter, also remains unbeaten at 3-0. They dominated Pine Lake Prep 51-6.

Next week will be a new week of course. South Point will be home again as they host the Q Foundation. Ashbrook returns home against another Asheville team, T.C. Roberson. Hunter Huss will host Rocky River. Forestview will be back at home after two straight road games. They play reigning 2AA Champion, East Lincoln. North Gaston travels to Cherryville. East Gaston will be back in action as they travel to Lincolnton.

Lake Norman Charter will visit Gaston County, but it will not be against any of their conference foes. They play Highland Tech, a former conference foe in last year’s Southern Piedmont 2A/1A Conference.

Jaguars start fast, roll Kings Mountain

Last week, it took the Jaguars until the second quarter to get rolling. On this night, the Jaguars did not waste any time. Set up by a Bishop Ford 56-yard dash to the two-yard line, the Jaguars were able to get on the board first with a Montavis Rogers one-yard plunge into the end-zone. Colton Rouse’s extra point gave the Jaguars a 7-0 lead.

Forestview would keep piling it on early and often. The Jaguars would use their areal assult to extend their lead. Logan Bradley connected with C.J. Bumgardner for a 26-yard touchdown reception. Ford got in on the scoring with an 18-yard dash into the end-zone and just like that, it was 20-0.

The Mountaineers were able to get a scoring drive going midway through the second quarter. Quartback Brandon Bell capped off the scoring drive with a 43-yard touchdown pass to Jake Merchant. Cameron Hoard’s kick cut Forestview’s lead to 20-7.

The Jaguars would claw back, though. Bradley, under immense pressure late in the second half, turned what looked to be a sack for loss into another touchdown pass. This time to Moe Neal from 32 yards out. The score would remain 27-7 at half.

Things just kept getting better for Forestview and worse for Kings Mountain. Montavis Rogers scored on another touchdown run, this time from four yards out, to give Forestview a 34-7 lead. Moe Neal, whom accounted for a touchdown reception earlier in the game, scored on a one-yard run to give the Jaguars a 41-7 advantage.

Kings Mountain did score one more time when Bell connected with Tico Crocker for an eight-yard touchdown pass. That would be all the highlights for the Mountaineers on this night. Both teams threatened to score in the fourth quarter, but would come up empty.

“I thought we played really, really well. We had a great game but we had a few lapses.” Forestview head coach Chris Medlin said “(East Lincoln) will be a big challenge and we better be ready.”

The Jaguars will host the Mustangs this Friday. They are 34-7 winners over North Lincoln and are currently riding a 19-game win streak.

“Forestview is good. They are the best we will play this year.” Kings Mountain head coach Greg Lloyd said “We played good, but not as good as we could have though.”

Kings Mountain starts conference play next week as they host East Rutherford.

Gaston, Lincoln and Cleveland County Week 3 Picks

Game of the Week: Forestview (1-1) @ Kings Mountain (2-0): After giving up 57 points in their season opening loss to Nation Ford. The Jaguars rebounded last week with a 41-6 whipping of Clover. The young Mountaineers squad has been a pleasant surprise this year, starting 2-0. They will have their hands full stopping the Jaguars’ potent offense. They average 48.5 points a game. The Mountaineer offense could also test the Jaguar defense. They average 34 points a game.

My pick: Forestview 35 – Kings Mountain 21

Shelby (1-1) @ South Point (2-0): The Red Raiders continued their dominance last week as they pounded Lincolnton 49-0. Shelby lost a tough one last week to 4A power A.C. Reynolds (whom South Point will face in a couple of weeks) 49-42. The Golden Lions offense has averaged 40 points a game so far this year. However, they will need to shore up their defense in order to have a chance at slowing down a red hot South Point team.

My pick: South Point 42 – Shelby 21

Ashbrook (0-2) @ Asheville (2-0): The Ashbrook Green Wave lost two tough games to open the season. The two games combined were only seven points. They are looking to have a breakout game against the Cougars. It will not be easy though and it might get a little worse before it gets better for the Green Wave. Note: the last time these two teams met was in 2002 in the 3AA Western Regional Championship Game. Ashbrook won that game 22-19 and went on to win the 3AA State Championship.

My pick: Asheville 28 – Ashbrook 14

Hunter Huss (0-2) @ Bessemer City (1-1): If there was a week for the Huskies to rebound, this would be it. Runningback Kerrion Moore returns after a one-game suspension and he and the Huskies are hoping to make a statement after being blown out by Burns 51-12 last week. The Yellow Jackets took down arch-rival Cherryville last week, but Huss will be a much bigger challenge.

My pick: Hunter Huss 42 – Bessemer City 12

Lincolnton (1-1) @ North Gaston (2-0): The Wildcats are looking for their first 3-0 start since 2007 when they reached the 3A State Title. A win tonight would match their win totals for the past five years. The Wildcats are averaging 42.5 points a game. Their defense heading into this game will be a big question mark after giving up 42 points in their narrow 43-42 win against East Rutherford last week. The Wolves are coming off a 49-0 blowout loss to South Point.

My pick: North Gaston 42 – Lincolnton 28

North Lincoln (0-2) @ East Lincoln (2-0): North Lincoln completes their tour of Lincoln County tonight as they face off with East Lincoln. The Knights are coming off two hard-fought losses against their other county rivals, Lincolnton (28-27) and West Lincoln (35-27). The Mustangs don’t look to be any easier as they appear to be picking up right where they left off last year. Do look for North Lincoln to put up a fight though.

My pick: East Lincoln 34 – North Lincoln 20

Cherryville (0-2) @ West Lincoln (2-0): It’s been tough sledding for the Ironmen early on. After being blown out by Bunker Hill 51-14, they fell to arch-rival, Bessemer City, by a score of 26-20. The Rebels had to fight hard to get their two wins. But they may not have to sweat as hard in this game as they did the previous two.

My pick: West Lincoln 41 – Cherryville 14

Burns (2-0) @ Freedom (2-0): This should be a game for fans in the area to watch. The Patriots have only given up six points this year and have pitched a shutout. They scored 47 points in both of their wins against Draughn and East Burke. However, they will face a much bigger challenge with the visiting Burns Bulldogs. Burns put up 51 points last week in their blowout win over Hunter Huss. This will be a great measuring stick for both teams as the ready themselves for conference play in the upcoming weeks.

My pick: Burns 27 – Freedom 20

Highland Tech (0-1) @ First Assembly of Concord (0-1): Struggles continue for the Highland Tech Rams.

My pick: First Assembly 31 – Highland Tech 6