8a Recap Hough vs Millbrook Recap Top Performers

The 8A State Championship between Hough and Millbrook lived up to the hype as a clash of two of the best defenses in North Carolina. Both units flew around all night, turning the game into a physical, grind-it-out battle. In the end, Hough was able to generate just enough offense, finding the end zone a couple of times, while Millbrook's defense kept fighting but couldn't get any support from the offense. The result was a statement win for Hough, as their defense pitched a shutout on the biggest stage.    [player_tooltip player_id='254550' first='Ethan' last='Royal'] was the overall Game MVP, delivering when it mattered most. The junior quarterback accounted for three touchdowns, capping off his night with a back-breaking 75-yard touchdown run that put the game completely out of reach. Royal showcased his elite athleticism and playmaking ability, stressing the defense both with his arm and his legs. Already holding several Division I offers, his performance on the state's biggest stage should only add more to that list this offseason. A true difference-maker and an elite athlete at the quarterback position. 🏈     Sophomore Jamarion Morrison was a monster all night and a true X-factor for Hough's offense. Whenever Millbrook started to slow down the passing attack, Morrison answered by ripping off tough 8+ yard gains, keeping the chains moving and the defense on its heels. His physical running style and burst through the hole gave Hough the balance it needed in a defensive battle. Morrison is one of the most underrated athletes in the state right now, but if he continues to perform like this, he won't stay under the radar for long. A breakout talent who's on his way to becoming a real name in the recruiting ranks.     Ohio State commit [player_tooltip player_id='651173' first='Quinton' last='Cypher'] showed exactly why he's regarded as one of the top athletes in the country. The junior was everywhere on Friday night, using his rare blend of size and elite, elite speed to take over defensively. Cypher filled the stat sheet with multiple tackles, tackles for loss, and even came down with an interception, making impact plays at every level of the field. Whether he was flying downhill against the run or dropping into coverage, his range and instincts stood out. A true game-wrecker who looked every bit like a future Buckeye star.     [player_tooltip player_id='1553113' first='Rashad' last='Streets'] proved all night why he's ranked as the No. 1 edge rusher in the Class of 2027. The elite athlete consistently disrupted the game with his combination of size, burst, and relentless effort. Streets was a constant presence in the backfield, setting the edge against the run and bringing pressure off the corner on passing downs. What really stands out is his motor — every snap is full speed, and it shows up in his impact. With his physical tools and work ethic, Streets looks every bit like a future Power Four difference-maker.     [player_tooltip player_id='1782184' first='Chase' last='Sizer'], edge/LB for Millbrook, showed why he's considered an elite athlete. With his long arms and impressive range, Sizer can really run and close space in a hurry. He made several big-time tackles in the state championship that highlighted his rare size-and-speed combination — either pushing the pile backward or jarring the ball carrier loose on contact. Even in a tough night for Millbrook, Sizer's physicality and effort stood out. A high-upside defender with the tools to be a major name on the recruiting trail.     Sophomore [player_tooltip player_id='950969' first='Ryan' last='Peterson'] from Hough played on another level in the state championship and was a true tone-setter at linebacker. He was everywhere — flying sideline to sideline while also stacking up tackles between the lines of scrimmage. Peterson showed elite instincts and toughness, always around the ball and finishing plays. What really separates him is his versatility in pass defense: whether blitzing off the edge or dropping into coverage against a slot receiver or running back, he consistently made an impact. He's everything you want in a modern linebacker — athletic, physical, and smart. A true difference-maker at the position

The 8A State Championship between Hough and Millbrook lived up to the hype as a clash of two of the best defenses in North Carolina. Both units flew around all night, turning the game into a physical, grind-it-out battle. In the end, Hough was able to generate just enough offense, finding the end zone a couple of times, while Millbrook's defense kept fighting but couldn't get any support from the offense. The result was a statement win for Hough, as their defense pitched a shutout on the biggest stage.