The Huddle: Bulldogs and Black Knights still contending for a championship
Thomasville takes the field prior to their game against South Stokes. {Contributed photo}
Both Davidson County football teams left in the state playoffs go on the road this week in round three of the North Carolina High School Athletic Association playoffs. Thomasville (9-2) will be at Mitchell (10-2) while North Davidson (8-3) leaves town to play Crest (9-2).
Last week, Thomasville had no issues as they jumped out to a 28-0 halftime lead against South Stokes and never looked back. With the defense dominating the game for the Bulldogs, South Stokes wasn’t able to do anything resulting in a 34-0 final. Thomasville is looking for a repeat performance by its defense in hopes of reaching the regional semifinals. Mitchell possess more of a threat this week. Game time is 7:30p.m.
North Davidson looked poised to dominate Hickory last week. After jumping out to 19-0 lead at the half, the Black Knights looked in control. The Red Tornadoes had other plans in the second half more importantly the fourth quarter. Still down 19-0 going into the fourth, Hickory rose from the ashes to garner their first lead, 20-19, with three minutes left in the game.
The Black Knights, Xavion Hayes (#11), points to the sky after a play. {Brooke Maners/Davison Local}
The Black Knights received the ball and running back Xavion Hayes scored with just over a minute left to put North Davidson ahead 25-20. But, Hickory wasn’t done yet. They completed a deep pass over the middle and the two-point conversion to go up 28-25 with under a minute left in the game. North Davidson Head Coach Brian Flynn gathered his team and quarterback to inspire them. Quarterback Gavin Hill was completed several key passes including a long touchdown strike to Alex Naylor with under four seconds for the win.
We had the chance to talk to Flynn about last week’s game and preparation for this week. We discussed how emotionally draining the game against Hickory was and what is he doing to make sure his guys don’t have a “hangover.” Flynn responded, “In our team meeting on Monday we talked about how things went from the lowest of lows, to the highest of highs. Football will bring that. I told them I was proud of them and how they faced that adversity. Now it's time to turn our attention to Crest. We aren't in the third round by pure luck. These guys deserve to be in this position.”
Flynn was also asked about Crest this week. He said, “Crest looks very good on film. They won their conference, and it's a very tough league. The keys to victory are going to be challenging but not impossible. Offensively, we have to be more efficient especially on third downs. Of course, taking care of the football, and Gavin just simply managing the game. Defensively, we have to be very disciplined. They will take us to the ball if we read our keys. One slip up could result in giving up a huge play.” He also stated “our offensive line is critical and need them to play well.”
In the end Flynn reiterated to his players, “Enjoy the moment and let's keep this ride going!” Game time for this matchup is 7:30p.m. at Crest High School.
