Smothering defense powers Pearl River to thrilling Homecoming win

Dylan Dunaway - PRCC Sports Information Director

POPLARVILLE, Miss. — A stifling defense that forced five turnovers and five sacks combined with an offense that rumbled for 271 yards on the ground was the recipe for an exciting Homecoming as the Pearl River football team pulled out a thrilling 35-14 victory over Southwest inside Dobie Holden Stadium.

"I've been very blessed throughout my career to be part of some really good teams, but this is one of the most gratifying wins of my life," head coach Seth Smith said. "Tonight, we're 1-0 and I am grateful.

"I thank God for the adversity. It's easy to hang in there with a smile when it's going well, but this year has been a challenge. These kids have fought and fought. I'm happy for them more than anything."

The victory over the Bears extends the all-time series to 64-16-3 in favor of the Wildcats.

GAME RECAP

Pearl River (1-7 overall; 1-4 MACCC South) picked up its first touchdown of the day in unique fashion. Southwest (1-6; 0-5) had possession of the football and was back in shotgun formation. The center's snap went wide and to the right and bounced to the 10-yard line. Local product Ahmad Harmon (Poplarville) scooped up the loose ball and carried it into the end zone for the score, 7-0.

PRCC's defense was stout over the next two SMCC drives and got the ball back with 2:51 remaining in the first quarter. Ty Hullete (Senatobia) began the drive by rushing for eight and seven years on back-to-back plays. One rush later, Hullette connected with Paul James (Beaumont; Perry Central) on a slant route across the middle for an 11-yard gain. Two more short rushes occurred before Keyshawn Graham (Tuscaloosa, Ala; American Christian Academy) punched the ball in from two yards out. The subsequent