The South Florence team celebrates their heart-stopping win against Westside.
In a thrilling Class AAAA State Championship rematch, South Florence narrowly defeated defending champions Westside with a final score of 42-41. The game, marked by impressive plays and high-stakes moments, saw South Florence’s quarterback Cutter Woods excel with 384 passing yards, ultimately ending Westside’s 27-game winning streak. As both teams exhibited a remarkable display of athleticism and determination, this championship match will be remembered for its nail-biting finish and fierce rivalry.
The city of Orangeburg witnessed an unforgettable high school football showdown as South Florence edged out the defending champions, Westside, in a nerve-wracking Class AAAA State Championship rematch. The final score of 42-41 marked a dramatic end to Westside’s incredible 27-game win streak, sending shockwaves through the community and leaving fans on the edge of their seats.
As the clock ticked down to just 1:52 in the final quarter, Westside, down by just one point, took a bold step by attempting a two-point conversion. Unfortunately for the defending champions, the crucial play was intercepted, sealing their fate in a game that had everything—passion, skill, and heart-stopping excitement.
This championship match was not only a rematch from last year’s title bout, where Westside emerged victorious, but it also showcased a fierce rivalry and the determination of both teams, each looking to claim the top honor.
In this high-scoring affair, South Florence showcased a blend of powerful running and precise passing. Quarterback Cutter Woods had a stellar night, throwing for an incredible 384 yards and hitting paydirt six times with his touchdown passes. Woods demonstrated both talent and resilience, leading his squad to glory while connecting with star receiver Chamarryus Bomar, who caught four passes for a jaw-dropping 213 yards. Bomar found the end zone an astonishing four times, helping South Florence keep pace in an intense shootout.
Adding to the excitement, Westside also had its moments of brilliance, including a remarkable 50-yard and a staggering 74-yard touchdown pass from Woods to Bomar, keeping their hopes alive for much of the game. Westside’s season record stood at a commendable 13-1, underscoring their previous successes, making this loss all the more poignant.
South Florence demonstrated remarkable determination with key plays throughout the game. Notable contributions came from running back Tre Leonard, who rushed for 132 yards on 12 carries and scored a key touchdown with a 6-yard run. South Florence balanced their offense effectively, mixing in a powerful running game with precise passing attacks. Quarterback Messiah Jackson connected with Jayden Sellers for decisive touchdowns, including a pivotal play where the team converted a 4th-and-5 at the Westside 31-yard line, showcasing their aggressive strategy.
Jackson not only excelled as a passer but also made significant contributions with his scrambling ability, notably a crucial 17-yard gain on a 3rd-and-8. Sellers, a South Carolina signee, made a tremendous impact with three touchdown receptions throughout the game, underscoring his importance on the team.
Despite the high-scoring nature of this contest, defensive plays were pivotal. Westside’s defense made a critical interception in the end zone that kept them in the game during tense moments. South Florence also had its fair share of defensive struggles, including a late-game attempt at an onside kick which did not pan out, leaving the outcome hanging in the balance.
This nail-biting finish proved to be a highlight for South Florence, who finished the season with a 12-3 record. Head coach Drew Marlowe’s comments on their unexpected third consecutive championship appearance reflected the surprise and excitement felt by the team and its supporters.
The thrilling match at Oliver C. Dawson Stadium not only provided a fitting conclusion to the season but also solidified the fierce rivalry that keeps high school football in South Carolina as exhilarating and heartwarming as ever. As the dust settles, fans and players alike will be talking about this epic showdown for years to come.
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