The roar of the crowd echoed through Gator Alley on Friday night as the Bulloch Academy Gators faced the Brookstone Cougars in a much-anticipated GIAA State Semi-Final rematch. In a contest with history and high stakes, the Gators secured a hard-fought 20-14 victory, exorcising the demons of last year’s controversial loss and punching their ticket to the state finals.
For the second consecutive year, the Gators entered the playoffs undefeated (10-0, 3-0) and as Region Champions. But this game was more than just another step on their championship journey, it was personal. Last season’s semi-final loss to Brookstone, decided in part by a disputed fumble ruling, left a sour taste. This time, Coach Aaron Phillips and his team were determined to “create their own luck” and leave no doubt.
First Quarter
The game began as a defensive slugfest, with both teams setting an intense tone early. Danye Garvin ignited the Gators on just their second offensive play with a strong run, but the Cougars’ defense held firm. Shamar Jenkins, a standout on both sides of the ball, made his presence known by leaping high to block a Brookstone pass, while Keonte Mayner delivered a bone-crunching tackle that drew cheers from the home crowd.
Brookstone struggled to find rhythm, hindered by multiple penalties, while Bulloch Academy’s defense Mayner and JT Lee, dominated the trenches. Lee recorded a crucial sack, forcing Brookstone into a loss of yards. Despite opportunities on both sides, the first quarter ended in a 0-0 stalemate, showcasing the superior defense that has defined the Gators’ season.
Second Quarter
On the very first play, Parker Chance intercepted a Brookstone pass, setting the Gators up with excellent field position. A big run by Jenkins followed, but a holding penalty pushed the Gators back, stalling the drive. Quarterback Sam Hubbard found Jenkins with a long pass, and Hubbard himself later broke free for a massive run to keep the drive alive.
The persistence paid off. Jenkins powered through the Cougars defense for a 1-yard rushing touchdown. Kicker Case Woodrum added the extra point, giving the Gators a 7-0 lead. Brookstone’s attempt to respond was thwarted by a strong defensive effort, highlighted by a tackle from Jack Lanier and a screen shutdown by Josh Mager. As the clock wound down, Brookstone missed a long field goal attempt, sending the game into halftime with Bulloch Academy firmly in control.
Third Quarter
The Gators came out of the locker room ready to build on their momentum. Early in the third quarter, Braylon Cone and TJ Durden continued to wreak havoc on Brookstone’s offense. Then, in a game-changing play, Ike Hubbard was able to get an interception.
Sam Hubbard wasted no time capitalizing on the turnover, delivering a pinpoint 29-yard touchdown pass to Billy Crider. The electrifying play put the Gators up 13-0, though the ensuing PAT attempt missed. Brookstone’s offense continued to struggle against Bulloch Academy’s relentless defense, with Ike Hubbard and Chance leading the charge. The quarter ended with the Gators holding a commanding lead.
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Fourth Quarter
The fourth quarter began with Bulloch Academy firing on all cylinders. A critical interception by Ike Hubbard gave the Gators possession and set them up with excellent field position. Quarterback Sam Hubbard took charge, capping off the drive with a 4-yard rushing touchdown. Kicker Woodrum followed with a successful PAT, giving the Gators a commanding 20-0 lead.
Brookstone, however, wasn’t ready to go quietly. They responded with a 64-yard touchdown pass to Mack Dixon, breaking their scoring drought. The extra point brought the score to 20-7, and the Cougars kept the pressure on. Their offense struck again with another touchdown pass on the following drive, cutting the lead to 20-14 after a successful PAT.
With the Cougars gaining momentum, the Gators’ defense came up clutch when it mattered most. Braylon Cone delivered a crucial tackle to stall Brookstone’s offense, and the defensive unit tightened its grip to deny any further advances.
Coach Phillips relied on disciplined clock management in the closing minutes. BJ Smart broke free for a pivotal run that took the Gators deep into Brookstone territory, allowing the offense to chew up valuable time. After successfully recovering an onside kick attempt, Bulloch Academy ran out the clock to secure the 20-14 victory and their place in the state finals.
Post-Game Reflection
For Coach Phillips, the victory was the culmination of a year’s worth of preparation and determination. “This is what we went to camp for, what we worked all summer for—this moment right here,” he said. “Last year, we didn’t put our best foot forward, but tonight, we left it all on the field.”
The Gators’ defense, often overlooked in favor of their explosive offense, was the true hero of the night. From start to finish, they stifled Brookstone’s attack, with standout performances from players like Braylon Cone, Shamar Jenkins, TJ Durden, and Parker Chance.
"I don't know who we play next week, but their in for some trouble," said Coach Phillips in his post-game speech.
With the win, Bulloch Academy advances to the GIAA State Finals to play First Presbyterian Day (10-1) next Saturday, November 23 at Georgia Southern's Paulson Stadium at 8:00 PM.
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