By: Rich Bontrager

TheSouthernSportsEdition.com news services

The Frederica Academy Knights had one goal all season; to finish what they started last season and actually make it to Mercer University for the State Championship.

Six years to the day that the Knights earned their first Championship in the GISA, they did so again but this time in the AAA Class.

The match up was built as a potential grudge match with John Milledge Academy. The Knights had lost to the Trojan’s only a month ago on a questionable call that cost them a 1-point loss.

However, in this rematch for the GISA title, there would be no doubt! The Knights dominated in all aspects of the game as they shut out John Milledge 48-0.

Frederica would score the only points in the first quarter on an explosive 7-yard TD run by Patrick Brunson (Sr). After that score, it looked like the two may be ready for an intense

defensive battle. Instead, the Knights would tack on another 21 points before half-time and show that they clearly were in control of the game.

Second quarter scores were all rushing touchdowns. Simpson, Veal, and Jackson all found their way to the end zone, as each point after the kick was successful. Frederica went into the locker room at the half stunning most of the fans with a 28-0 lead.

Much of the scoring in the first half was made possible by exceptional defensive plays and stops that forced the Trojans to punt or turn the ball over on downs.

The first half defense featured outstanding plays by Deke Jernigan (Jr), Patrick Brunson, and Cameron Gardner (Sr). The only bright spot for John Milledge was the 46 yards rushing by sophomore running back Amaad Foston.

The second half exploded with a trick play on the very first play from the line of scrimmage, as the Knights ran a double reverse flee-flicker route and scored. Patrick Brunson was left wide open down the middle of the field, as the double reverse unfolded, and caught a 52 yard pass from Jaylin Simpson.

After the game Coach Brandon Derrick said, “We have practiced this play a lot, but never really completed it well enough. Tonight, we did it just perfect.” Simpson completed the game executing 14 of 15 pass attempts.

In the third quarter the Knights would add on another 13 points to extend their lead. John Milledge threatened briefly as they got the to the 5-yard line, but once again the Knights defense held. The Trojan’s would miss the field goal attempt and the Knights would again get the ball on a turnover of downs.

Overall this game was a total team effort that showcased how unselfish play can make a great team even greater. The defense got an interception, sack, and kept Brandon Bellflower (QB) of John Milledge on the run all night long.

The defense made stop after stop. Five different Knights would score on offense and eight different players would rush for yardage. Frederica wraps the 2018 season with a 10-3 record and Championship trophy coming home to Saint Simons Island.

Congratulations to Coach Brandon Derrick, his coaching staff, players and entire team for overcoming early season adversity to make the “March To Mercer” and achieve the goal of winning the GISA title. This will be a season to remember.