The Southeast Bulloch Yellow Jackets secured a solid 35-8 win over the Windsor Forest Knights, marking their first road victory of the season. The Yellow Jackets dominated with 223 total yards, 172 of those on the ground, while Windsor Forest managed 144 yards, most of which came in the fourth quarter.
SEB showed improvement and kept Windsor Forest's offense in check, only allowing points late in the game. The Yellow Jackets now carry a two-game win streak heading into their next home game against Liberty County at Fred Shaver Field at 7:30 p.m.
First quarter: With just 11 minutes left in the quarter, Colby Smith exploded for a 27-yard gain, showing he was back in action, leading to SEB marching deep into Windsor Forest territory. Jayden Murphy added to the momentum with his physical running style, and together, Smith and Murphy kept the Yellow Jackets driving. However, a holding penalty slowed things down briefly, but SEB quickly rebounded, with Smith eventually punching it in from one yard out to give SEB an early 7-0 lead.
Shortly after, a fumble on the kickoff by Windsor Forest gave the Yellow Jackets another chance in good field position at the Knights' 33-yard line. Unfortunately, a false start set them back, and despite strong runs by Smith and Murphy, a botched exchange handed the ball back to Windsor Forest. The Knights capitalized by moving the ball upfield with a few short passes and outside runs, but the SEB defense held strong, forcing a turnover on downs after stuffing a third-down run. SEB ended the quarter with the ball, leading 7-0, but Windsor Forest was starting to find some rhythm in their offensive game.
Second Quarter: SEB continues to dominate both sides of the ball. With a 21-0 lead and another defensive stand resulting in a turnover on downs, the Yellow Jackets are showing no signs of slowing down.
From Smith's powerful runs to Rhett Morgan's smart play-calling, it's been all SEB as they’ve racked up impressive yardage. Windsor Forest is struggling to keep up, particularly in the trenches, where SEB’s defensive front has consistently disrupted plays. And on the offensive side, they’ve found great success running the ball and mixing in timely passes.
Colby Smith, with over 100 yards already, is proving to be a workhorse. That connection between Morgan and Smith on the far sideline earlier in the quarter was a thing of beauty, perfectly timed and executed to set up yet another touchdown.
This portion of the game sees SEB continuing to dominate both offensively and defensively. Starting off with Chase Douglas and Stevie Padgett in the backfield, SEB drives the ball down the field but runs into a tough Windsor Forest defense.
Windsor Forest struggles to get out of their own territory, facing SEB’s ferocious defensive front. Despite multiple efforts, their drives are brief and unsuccessful, including a crucial turnover where Kyle O'Brien picks off a pass, returning it down to the seven-yard line for SEB. However, SEB's attempt to capitalize is thwarted when Windsor Forest forces a fumble right at the goal line, keeping SEB from extending their lead.
As the quarter winds down, SEB’s defense keeps the pressure on, forcing another Windsor Forest turnover that puts the ball right back in SEB’s hands. Eventually, Morgan pushes through with a rushing touchdown, putting SEB up 28-0 with just 47 seconds left in the half.
Third Quarter: The third quarter kicks off with SEB set to receive the ball after Windsor Forest won the toss and deferred.
Windsor Forest struggles early, and a pivotal play occurs when Chase Douglas intercepts a pass and returns it for a touchdown, extending SEB’s lead to 34-0. The ensuing extra point by Thomas Edge makes it 35-0.
As the quarter progresses, SEB’s defense remains dominant, with Windsor Forest's offense having difficulty moving the ball. Despite a few promising plays, they struggle to maintain momentum. SEB's defense forces multiple turnovers on downs, including a failed fourth-and-12 attempt.
In the final moments of the quarter, with SEB leading 35-0, Windsor Forest's new quarterback tries to rally the offense, but they face more setbacks, including penalties that push them back. The quarter ends with SEB firmly in control, showcasing a strong defensive performance while the Windsor Forest offense continues to struggle.
Fourth Quarter: Windsor Forest finally found some momentum, thanks to their quarterback. After a fumbled snap by SEB’s backup quarterback Colton Zito, Windsor Forest regained possession at the 45-yard line. Despite a slow start, the Knight's determination shone through, leading to a touchdown by their running back making the score 35-6. They were then able to get a two-point conversion, making it 35-8.
With just 8.8 seconds left, SEB looked to run out the clock. Colton Zito took the snap, handing off to Brodie Baron, who broke through to the 50-yard line as the final horn sounded, sealing the game at 35-8 in favor of SEB.
The Yellow Jackets improved to 4-1 on the season and 3-1 in region play.
Up Next
The Yellow Jackets will be back in action on Friday, September 27, at Fred Shaver Field as they take on Liberty County for another region matchup.