SUNNYVALE DEFEATS GILMER JV BUCKEYES IN HARD-FOUGHT 28-14 BATTLE

A dominant fourth-quarter surge by Sunnyvale proved too much for the Gilmer Junior Varsity Buckeyes, who dropped a tough 28-14 decision. Despite a gritty second-half comeback attempt by the Buckeyes, Sunnyvale’s late-game execution secured the victory.
Sunnyvale set the tone early in the contest, blanking the Buckeyes in the first half while capitalizing on its own opportunities to build a 13-0 lead by halftime.
Refusing to go down without a fight, Gilmer rallied dynamically in the third quarter. The Buckeye defense completely shut down Sunnyvale’s attack, while the offense found its rhythm to punch in 8 points, cutting the deficit significantly. However, the fourth quarter belonged to Sunnyvale. The visitors exploded for 15 points in the final frame to put the game out of reach, overshadowing a final 6-point touchdown drive by the Buckeyes
Gilmer’s offensive unit moved the ball effectively, accumulating 207 yards, with 146 yards rushing.
The ground attack was fueled by Jayden Miller, who rushed for a team-high 53 yards and a touchdown. Quarterback Phoenix Ross added balance to the backfield, rushing for 37 yards and a touchdown while contributing 63 yards through the air. Ayden Bray also chipped in with 33 hard-earned yards on the ground.
Up front, the Buckeyes found immense success thanks to the stellar play of offensive linemen Charlee Dunn, Madden Perkins, and Colton Fuentes, who anchored the line. Fullbacks Sabin Byrd and Ty O’Neal were also praised by coaching staff for providing the crucial lead blocks that opened up running lanes. In the passing game, Aiden Cunningham and Bryce Bewley led the receiving corps with 28 and 27 yards, respectively.
Linebacker Lincoln Dodd had a spectacular individual night, racking up 5 solo tackles, 2 assists, a tackle for loss, and a vital interception. Trampus Neal matched Dodd with 5 solo tackles of his own, while Brayden Granville recorded 3 solo tackles, 3 assists, and a tackle for loss. Special teams also came up big when Kaleb Tipton managed to penetrate the line and block a Sunnyvale extra point attempt.
The Gilmer JV will have an opportunity to rest and regroup during a bye week. They will travel to face Pleasant Grove Oct. 8 at 6:30 p.m. at Hawk Stadium in Texarkana.