The competition lived up to its reputation.
Known for their historically punishing ground game and a swarming, physical defense, both tools were on display last Friday night when West Point High Green Wave overwhelmed the visiting Gentry High Rams.
The result of this opening game of the 5A State Playoffs saw the Gentry High Rams complete its 2023 season by way of a 54-8 loss to the Green Wave.
The now 8-3 West Point offense would use its heralded ground game to amass 394 yards on 50 rushes against a heretofore strong Gentry defensive unit.
That rushing attack was led by Kahneen Daniels, a University of Florida commit who picked up 158 yards during the game with the Rams.
Following a scoreless first quarter, by halftime the Rams faced a 21-0 score which grew to a 41-8 margin when the game entered the final quarter of play.
Meanwhile, the Rams avoided a shutout in the third quarter when quarterback Anthony Brown connected with Henry Brown on a 55-yard touchdown pass. The duo would then complete a two-point conversion attempt to account for the Rams’ final points of the season.
Seeing his team’s season end with a 6-6 record, Gentry Head Coach Mario Young noted “We had some growth this season. There were times we had to overcome some injuries through the course of the season and we competed well. We will hit the weightroom right after Thanksgiving and get ready for next year.”
Meanwhile, the Green Wave will continue their chase for a 12th state championship by moving on to tonight’s second round action against another Region 2 opponent.
On this occasion it will be undefeated and regional champion Holmes County Central High School serving as the Green Wave opponent.
Playing their final game last Friday night while wearing a Gentry High football uniform were 28 seniors.
Included in this large group were Tamaivo Ansley, Semaj Attaway, Nebraska Batteast, Marcus Beckworth, Tyzon Bennett, Remeil Bolden, Anthony Brown, Henry Brown, Jordan Dunnas, Asuad Fair, Xavier Hobo, Donterrius Longmire, Devilin Moore, Jayden Moore, Rodarius Plain, Esaw Price, Demarcus Robinson, Demetric Robinson, Jay Silas, Tyler Strong, Deleon Tate, Vashard Turner, Vashun Turner, Victor Turner, Patrick White, Martevious Williams, Bryce Young, and Tavarious Young.
