The Golden Lions traveled to Belmont to face the South Point Red Raiders in the final SWAC contest of the 2019 season. The Golden Lions defeated the Red Raiders 49-21 to finish undefeated in the conference (6-0) and captured the conference championship for the 2nd consecutive season. The Golden Lions scored on their first 2 possessions to take a 14-0 lead after the 1st quarter. South Point answered with 14 points in the 2nd quarter. The Golden Lions added another TD in the 2nd quarter for a 21-14 halftime lead. The Golden Lions came alive in the 2nd half, scoring on 4 of their 7 second half possessions to secure the win.
The Golden Lions had 423 yards of total offense (195 rushing/228 passing) and 18 first downs. Isaiah Bess went 11/23 passing for 228 yards and 2 TD’s. Omar Phillips had 14 rushing attempts for 155 yards and 4 TD’s. Ja’ hari Mitchell had 7 receptions for 153 yards, 2 TD’s and also added a rushing TD.
The Golden Lions Defense allowed 250 yards of offense to the Red Raiders (196 rushing/ 54 passing). Jack Hollifield led the way with 15 total tackles including 3 tackles for loss. Malaki Hamrick had 11 total tackles including 1 tackle for loss. Nick Stites had 7 total tackles including 7 tackles for loss and 2 1/2 sacks. Jimmy Whisnant had 2 fumble recoveries.
The Golden Lions will begin the state playoffs next Friday at George Blanton Memorial Stadium. Playoff seedings and brackets will be released by the NCHSAA later today.