In 2016, Tucker knocked Northside out in the state semifinals. Last year it was in the first round. Needless to say, the Tigers have been a huge stumbling block for the Eagles.
But not anymore.
The Eagles took care of that Friday with a 43-21 win. They advance to the next round of the GHSA Class AAAAAA playoffs where they’ll get to host thanks to Bradwell Institute’s 28-21 upset of No. 1 seed Grovetown.
Northside scored its first touchdown on Jadin Daniels’ nine-yard run. Cory Munson’s point after made it 7-0.
After two punts by the Tigers and one by the Eagles, Tucker tied it on a “pick six” of 60 yards by Bruce Mattox.
Last year Northside scored first as well. Then the Tigers tied it and pulled away – 28-7. This time it was the Eagles somewhat returning the favor. Eric Smith’s 35-yard run as the second got under way made it 14-7. Following a punt by both, Northside recorded a safety to make it 16-7. It then scored on the ensuing kickoff via Smith’s 25-yard run.
Munson missed a field goal shortly after that. Tucker then scored again on a 35-yard pass from Travon Ford to Torezz Alexander. That made it 23-14, which is where it stood at the half.
Both punted to start the third before a fumble gave the Tigers good field position. Ford finally took advantage when he hit David Davis with a 22-yard pass. The point after made it 23-21.
Again both punted before Smith scored his third touchdown, this time on a run of 65 yards. The point after was no good making it 29-21.
Both traded fumbles before Northside scored twice more. Jadin Daniels accounted for one on a 78-yard run and Daniel Neal the other from four yards out.
With the win, the Eagles improved to 6-5, while the Tigers ended their year 7-4.
McDonald’s Offensive Player of the Game: Eric Smith
Your Pie Defensive Player of the Game: Jaiden Rumph
