In a thrilling week‑nine showdown at Hillcrest High School, the Patriots preserved their perfect record and captured the 5A Region 3 title with a 22-20 win over the Bessemer City Tigers. The victory keeps Hillcrest unbeaten at 9-0 and guarantees a home game for the opening round of the state playoffs.
Key moments of the game
The action began early when running back Jacobi Harris burst through for a 55‑yard touchdown midway through the first quarter. Hillcrest answered quickly as Lamarrion Gooden powered in from the one‑yard line, tying the game at 7‑7.
On the ensuing kickoff, Bessemer City kicker Zayden Martinez forced a fumble that his own team recovered, setting up a 40‑yard field goal. Hillcrest’s quarterback Jordan Shambley then threw an interception to Jermaine Gilbert, giving the Tigers another Martinez field goal, this time from 36 yards, and a 13‑7 lead at halftime.
Second‑half turnaround
The third quarter erupted when Harris scored his second touchdown on a 23‑yard run, putting Hillcrest ahead 14‑13. Moments later, defensive back Marvin Johnson intercepted VJ Slaughter and returned it 20 yards for a pick‑six, extending the lead to 21‑13.
Bessemer City fought back late in the fourth quarter. Braylon Ellington rushed for an 11‑yard touchdown, narrowing the gap to 22‑20. With 1:37 remaining, the Tigers drove to their own 40‑yard line and faced a 4th‑and‑5. Slaughter’s pass was broken up by Jeremiah Beverly, sealing the Patriots’ victory.
Statistical highlights
- Jacobi Harris (Hillcrest RB): 11 carries, 193 yards, 2 touchdowns
- Marvin Johnson (Hillcrest DB): Interception returned for a touchdown
- Jeremiah Beverly (Hillcrest DL): Game‑ending sack on 4th‑and‑5
- VJ Slaughter (Bessemer City QB): 12‑of‑26 passes, 128 yards, 2 interceptions
- Braylon Ellington (Bessemer City RB): 12 carries, 62 yards, 1 touchdown; 1 reception for 12 yards
- Lamarrion Gooden (Bessemer City RB): 18 carries, 53 yards, 1 touchdown; 2 receptions for 20 yards
- Zayden Martinez (Bessemer City K): 2 field goals (40, 36 yards), 2 PATs (8 points), 1 forced fumble
Hillcrest’s regular season concludes with the undefeated record after a scheduled game against Daphne High School was mutually canceled. The Patriots will host their opening‑round playoff matchup, while Bessemer City drops to 6‑3 and will close its season against Chelsea.
What this means for the community
The championship underscores the strength of Hillcrest’s football program and provides a source of pride for students, families, and local supporters. The upcoming playoff game promises to bring additional excitement and economic activity to the Hillcrest area, reinforcing the role of high‑school athletics in fostering community spirit and teamwork.
Original reporting: The Tuscaloosa Thread — read the source article.
