Class 1A Lower State Semifinal Previews
As unpredictable as the 1A Lower State bracket looked, the top four seeds have all made their way through the first two rounds. But it sets up a pair of sensational matchups on Friday which both could swing either way.…
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Continue ReadingAs unpredictable as the 1A Lower State bracket looked, the top four seeds have all made their way through the first two rounds. But it sets up a pair of sensational matchups on Friday which both could swing either way. It’s that time to preview the Lower State semifinals in Class 1A.
Lamar (9-3) at Johnsonville (11-0)
After a gritty performance against a tough Bamberg-Ehrhardt squad on Saturday, the Flashes earned the right to host Lamar for a spot in the final four. Johnsonville showcased its balanced offensive attack and picked up some timely conversions from quarterback Malik Shippy Malik Shippy 6'2" | 180 lbs | QB Johnsonville | 2024 State SC and hard-nosed runner Daquan Burroughs. The Silver Foxes grinded out a 16-12 win last week. over Baptist Hill on a go-ahead scoop and score by athletic safety Ja’Quan Toney despite giving up two defensive scores themselves. Quarterback Tavion Dolford and company will have to keep control of the football this week against a ferocious Johnsonville defense led by powerful Johnsonville defensive end Gray Blanton. Expect an intense grinder with the turnover battle likely deciding the ballgame.
Edge: Johnsonville
Cross (10-2) at Estill (11-1)
Two teams with captivating storylines will meet on Friday for a spot in the 1A Lower State final. It’s Estill’s last year as a football program, and Cross has already improved eight wins from its 2021 total. The Gators won with their defense in a 12-6 victory over Carvers Bay on Saturday thanks to some clutch tackles from Mandrell Garvin and an interception by freshman Desmond Mathis. It’ll be another challenge for Gators quarterback Xavier Garvin against a Trojan defense that’s surrendered just 14 combined points over its last six games. Cross has a pair of 1000-yard rushers in Santory Jones and Carmello Montgomery. This one could come down to which offense keeps control of the ball and executes in the brightest moments. A bounce-back game from Garvin could be huge in what should be another incredible atmosphere in Hampton County.
Edge: Estill