Patriots cruise to 60-20 win against Eagles to claim Conference Championship
The Arendell Parrott Academy Patriots took to the road on Friday evening for a matchup against the Wayne Christian Eagles. The Patriots scored early and often en route to a 60-20 victory. With the win, the Patriots clinched the NCISAA 8-man Conference Championship and the #1 seed in the upcoming playoffs.
The Patriots knew coming into this regular season finale that they would be tested against a strong opponent riding a six-game winning streak. Any doubts about their readiness for the challenge were silenced early in the game. “I’m just really pleased with the guys. They came out, executed, and did what they were coached to do,” Head Coach Matt Beaman said postgame.
The Patriots were once again led offensively by senior star running back #5 Jaylen Solomon. Solomon, celebrating his 18th birthday, amassed 201 rushing yards and three rushing touchdowns, also adding a 10-yard passing touchdown to #42 Tanner Outlaw.
Solomon has now rushed for over 2,000 yards this season, finishing the regular season with an impressive 2,111 rushing yards and 32 touchdowns. “We come out every week, dominate, and prepare for Friday,” Solomon said after the win.
Other Patriots to find the end zone on the ground were #21 Cade Mixon, #11 Mason Mooring, and #30 Luke Stocks. Mixon and Mooring each scored one touchdown, while Stocks added two. #8 Chris Stimson managed the game well at quarterback, completing six of eight passes for 122 yards. #3 Ben Barrett led the Patriots' receiving corps, racking up 96 yards on four catches.
Mooring, Mixon, and Stocks also made significant defensive plays in the win. Mooring recorded 10 total tackles while also blocking a field goal and a punt. Sophomore #23 Cole Watson stepped up big, coming in for Mixon at middle linebacker and recording five total tackles.
The Patriots will now wait until Sunday to learn who their opponent will be in the first round of the playoffs. Whoever they face, Coach Beaman will have his team ready to compete and continue their winning ways in the state playoffs.
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