Grace Christian continued its perfect start to the 2026 high school football season with a hard‑fought 50-48 victory over Sevier County on Thursday night. The Rams improved to 7-0 overall and 4-0 in Division II‑AA East play, while the Smoky Bears slipped to 5-2 overall and 3-0 in the region.
Game summary
The contest was a back‑and‑forth affair that saw both teams exchange leads. Sevier County quarterback Cooper Newman connected with Zach Banks for a touchdown with just over three minutes left in the fourth quarter, narrowing the gap to 50-48. Grace Christian stopped the Bears’ two‑point conversion attempt, preserving the lead.
Earlier, Grace Christian responded to a 12‑point deficit in the third quarter by scoring 20 straight points, taking a 43-35 advantage. Senior Terrion Thomas was instrumental, delivering a 33‑yard bomb to Corbin Hobson and later adding a 44‑yard touchdown run that put Grace ahead 36-35.
Key performances
Cooper Newman posted an impressive stat line, completing 28 of 44 passes for 398 yards and six touchdowns with no interceptions. He is now within striking distance of the state’s all‑time career passing yardage record, needing roughly 334 more yards to claim the top spot.
Thomas finished with nine carries for 52 yards and four rushing touchdowns, plus eight receptions for 67 yards and a receiving touchdown. His versatility helped the Rams maintain momentum throughout the game.
Grace Christian quarterback Corbin Hobson contributed 21 of 30 passes for 232 yards, a touchdown, and two interceptions. Wide receiver Parker Newman recorded nine catches for 186 yards and three scores, while Zach Banks added 106 yards and three touchdowns on seven receptions.
Turning points
With 8:25 left in the third quarter, Sevier County led 35-23. Grace Christian answered with a series of successful plays, including a double‑pass trick that resulted in a pass‑interference penalty against the Bears, giving the Rams a fresh set of downs that led to a quick touchdown.
In the final minutes, Grace Christian’s defense held firm, stopping Sevier County’s two‑point conversion attempt after a late touchdown and securing the win.
Looking ahead
Sevier County (5-2, 3-0) returns to action on Oct. 16 in Region 1‑5A play at Tennessee High. Grace Christian (7-0, 4-0) will face CAK next Thursday, aiming to extend its unbeaten run.
Both programs continue to showcase the talent and competitive spirit that define high school football in Sevier County, providing an exciting backdrop for the remainder of the season.
Original reporting: Knox TN Today — read the source article.
