Indians Edge Raiders, 49-46

Stephens County hangs on to win a back-and-forth Battle of Currahee Mountain.

The Indians stopped Habersham Central twice on fourth down in the final four minutes, including knocking down a Hail Mary pass on the final play to edge the Raiders, 49-46, in Mt. Airy on Saturday night.

A career performance from Hassan Brown paced the Indian offensive attack, as Brown ran for more than 200 yards and scored twice. Brown also threw a touchdown pass on a halfback pass to Kamon Taylor.

Cole Beitzel scored three rushing touchdowns for the Indians and Brandon Wheeler added an 84-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.

Habersham Central was led by A.J. Curry, who threw for more than 300 yards and ran for more than 100 yards. Curry also threw three touchdown passes, two to Donnie Curry, and ran for four touchdowns.

Indians’ Head Coach Frank Barden said he is pleased with the running game and the overall effort in picking up a tough win.

“It is what we have had to do with all of the injuries,” said Barden. “It’s sort of old school football and old school Stephens County.  What a game. I cannot say enough about the heart of our kids.”

With the win, the Indians move to 2-2 on the season. Meanwhile, the loss drops Habersham Central to 1-3 on the year.

Stephens County returns home on Friday night to take on Hart County. Kick-off is at 7:30 p.m. with coverage starting at 5:30 p.m. on WNEG with the Indian Tailgate Show.

PLAYER AWARDS

Stephens County Farm Bureau Player of the Game – Hassan Brown

Hart EMC Lineman of the Game – Daniel Brock

X-Factor Sub of the Game – Brandon McCurley

First Baptist Church Spirit Award – William Rudeseal