Football Recap: Eli Garlington Leads a Balanced Attack to Beat Franklin

Independence lost to Franklin back in September of 2024, but they didn't allow them the same satisfaction on Friday. The Eagles enjoyed a cozy 21-7 victory over the Admirals. The win made it back-to-back victories for the Eagles.

Eli Garlington

Rushing Yards (Career)

09/26/25 vs Franklin	114
09/19/25 vs Coffee County Central	99
09/20/24 vs Beech	70
09/12/25 @ Shelbyville Central	61
10/03/24 @ Overton	41

Independence's win was a true team effort, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Eli Garlington, who rushed for 114 yards and one score. Those 114 rushing yards gave Garlington a new career-high. The team also got some help courtesy of Hendrix Harvey, who picked up 44 receiving yards and a pair of TDs.

Independence now has a winning record of 3-2. As for Franklin, they are on a five-game losing streak that has dropped them down to 1-5.

Both squads will have to hit the road in their upcoming contests. Independence will head out to challenge Ravenwood on Friday. The Raptors' defense has only allowed 15 points per game this season, so the Eagles' offense will have their work cut out for them. As for Franklin, they will challenge Centennial at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. The Admirals will be up against the Cougars' rather soft defense (which has allowed 40.8 points per matchup), so fans could be in store for a big offensive performance.