The fourth-ranked and undefeated Wildcats took two overtimes to find a way past Starr's Mill, getting a game-winning field goal from Guy Hunt to see off an upset challenge from the Panthers, 27-24.
The win moves Apalachee into the second round of the postseason, where it will play host to Marist.
Jon Lee started the game off on the right foot for the Region 8-AAAA champs, scoring on a 22-yard run in the first quarter for a 7-0 lead.
But Starr's Mill (6-5) wasn't going to go easy, scoring nine straight points to hold a 9-7 halftime advantage.
Lee and Christian Hoard combined to put Apalachee back in front in the third quarter, as Lee ripped off a 61-yard run on the first play from scrimmage and left it for Hoard to finish off the drive with a 5-yard touchdown run and a 14-9 advantage.
Hunt then added a 43-yard field goal for 17-9 lead in the fourth quarter.
But the Panthers came firing right back, scoring on a 44-yard touchdown pass with less than two minutes to play. Starr's Mill then converted a two-point conversion, sending the game into overtime.
Lee picked up his second touchdown in the first extra frame, but Starr's Mill answered for a 24-24 tie and second overtime.
The Apalachee defense held firm in the second OT, forcing a 24-yard field goal attempt from Starr's Mill that sailed wide right.
The Wildcats wouldn't make the same mistake, as Hunt lined up for a 25-yard attempt on third down, splitting the uprights for the winning score.
Apalachee running back Jon Lee
http://accesswdun.com/article/2009/11/224732