Carver Gears Up for Class 2A State Championship in Atlanta

The GW Carver Tigers are headed to Atlanta, poised to battle for glory in the Class 2A State Championship at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. With a commanding 49-6 victory over Appling County, the Tigers left no doubt about their dominance.

Carver’s defense was sensational, allowing only 54 total yards and forcing two fumbles, one of which Antwuan Watts returned 40 yards for a touchdown. Adding to their defensive masterpiece, the Tigers secured a safety and an interception, silencing Appling County's offense.

On the offensive side, QB Matthew Mungin II was unstoppable, throwing for over 250 yards and three touchdowns. Senior receiver Braylon Jakes led the receiving corps, amassing more than 100 yards and scoring twice. With this win, Carver’s 14-1 season will culminate at 4 p.m. on December 17, when they face the formidable 13-1 Burke County Bears in a clash of titans for the state title.

Meanwhile, the Central Lady Red Devils flag football team achieved perfection, claiming their second consecutive 7A state title with a resounding 55-7 victory over Spain Park.

Completing their season 19-0, the Lady Red Devils defense allowed just 49 points all year. Senior QB Gerritt Griggs delivered a flawless performance, completing 14 of 19 passes for 237 yards and six touchdowns. Her precision spread the scoring among five receivers, with standout Natalyn Lumpkin hauling in three receptions for 85 yards and two touchdowns, while Colby Cook added another 74 yards and a touchdown.

On the boys’ side, Central’s football team fought hard but fell 21-7 to Thompson in the 7A state championship. Despite the loss, the Red Devils had a season to celebrate, highlighted by high-profile college signings: Makel Green (Troy University), Tristan Williams (Samford University), Mal Waldrep (University of Alabama), and Daylyn Upshaw (University of Miami).

Other area players joined the signing frenzy, including Northside’s Caden Clay, who committed to Charleston Southern University.

Not to be outdone, the Columbus High cheerleading team captured the state championship in sideline cheer competition, showcasing their unmatched energy and skill. Congratulations to these remarkable athletes!

As football nears its thrilling conclusion, basketball is picking up steam across the region. Here’s a packed week of games to mark on your calendars:

• December 10:
  • Carver at Harris County (6 p.m. Girls)
  • Jordan at Spencer (6 p.m. Girls / 7:30 p.m. Boys)
  • Northside at Shaw (6 p.m. Girls / 7:30 p.m. Boys)
  • Pike County at Kendrick (6 p.m. Girls / 7:30 p.m. Boys)
  • Columbus at Russell County (6 p.m. Girls / 7:30 p.m. Boys)
• December 11:
  • Middle School Football Championship: Aaron Cohn vs. Midland at Kinnett Stadium (6 p.m.)
• December 13:
  • Smiths Station at Shaw (6 p.m. Girls / 7:30 p.m. Boys)
  • Hardaway at Harris County (6 p.m. Girls / 7:30 p.m. Boys)
  • Columbus at Northside (6 p.m. Girls / 7:30 p.m. Boys)
  • Spencer at Brookstone (6 p.m. Girls / 7:30 p.m. Boys)
  • Carver at Callaway (6 p.m. Boys)
• December 14:
  • Hardaway at Grayson (11:30 a.m. Girls)
  • Spencer at Duluth (1 p.m. Boys)
  • Carver at Columbus (4 p.m. Girls / 5:30 p.m. Boys)
  • Northside at Russell County (4 p.m. Girls / 5:30 p.m. Boys)
  • Americus at Shaw (5 p.m. Girls / 6:30 p.m. Boys)

As football gives way to basketball season, don’t miss the highly anticipated Greg Nance Bowl, featuring the region’s best young football talent.

This electrifying event kicks off on Dec. 14th at Memorial Stadium, with gates opening at 9 a.m. and the first game starting at 10 a.m.

Admission is $10 for adults and $8 for kids under 12.

For a preview of the action, join us at Media Day on December 13th at the Legacy Center 6 p.m.-8 p.m. The countdown to a jam-packed week of sports has begun—stay tuned, Tri-City fans, because this is just the beginning.

Until next time—Time-Out!