Cleveland had lost six straight on the road dating back to last season, but on Friday they dropped down to 1-2 to make it seven. They were beaten by the Cold Springs Eagles 54-22. The result was an unpleasant reminder to the Panthers of the 46-0 defeat they experienced in the pair's previous head-to-head fixture back in September of 2024.
Despite the loss, Cleveland saw an underclassman step up: freshman Brennan Steele rushed for 49 yards and one touchdown, and also threw for 94 yards and a pair of TDs.
As for Cold Springs, their record is now 3-1. Considering they have won three matches by more than 31 points this season, Friday's blowout was nothing new.
Cold Springs was led to victory by Cason Alexander and Ayden Black. Alexander rushed for 135 yards and a pair of scores on only 11 carries, while Black rushed for 76 yards and one TD on only five carries. Black's longest rush was for an impressive 56 yards, which helps to explain his lofty yards per carry total. Cooper Johnson was another key back, rushing for 93 yards and one touchdown on only six carries.
Both squads will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Cleveland will take on West End at 7:00 p.m. on Friday. The Panthers will be up against the Patriots' rather soft defense (which has allowed 26.5 points per game), so fans could be in store for a big offensive performance. As for Cold Springs, they will venture away from home to face off against Winston County at 7:00 p.m. on Friday.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
