DAHLONEGA — Cherokee Bluff's already historic second season is still reaching new heights.
In one fell swoop Friday night the Bears snagged their first-ever road win and first-ever region win with a 45-14 smackdown of Lumpkin County at The Burial Grounds.
Jayquan Smith rushed for 244 yards and three touchdowns and Cherokee Bluff (2-5, 1-2 Region 7-3A) kept itself alive for a possible playoff spot in the process. The Bears piled up 329 yards on the ground for the game, one in which they never trailed.
Coach Tommy Jones said there is reason to celebrate but also said it was just another step in the beginning journeys of the two-year-old program.
“We’re still a young team and a young program. This is really just about taking steps forward as a program. I think we did that tonight,” Jones said.
Smith had touchdown runs of 56, 61, and 64 yards to provide the flash. Harrison Carter added a 3-yard TD run and Eric Gohman had a 32-yard touchdown catch.
Cherokee Bluff led 10-0 before the Indians cut it to 10-7 in the first half. The Bears would score the next 35 before Lumpkin County (1-5, 0-2) scored again late in the game.
“The offense, and the offensive line in particular, played exceptionally well,” Jones said. “We were able to run the ball early and I think that set the tone.. Smith just had a great game for us. I’m just really proud of the kids.”
Lumpkin County finished with 245 yards but most of that came in the fourth quarter after Cherokee Bluff built its big lead.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2019/10/840922/bluff-snags-first-road-and-first-region-win-all-in-one