Rabun County advanced to the quarterfinals after a one-year hiatus, defeating Berrien 35–0 in what marked the final home game of the season.
The Wildcats (10-2) were able to build a sizable lead early, while the defense was opportunistic and stingy throughout. They pitched a shutout against the Rebels (4-8).
Rabun County drew first blood when getting a short field on its opening drive. Ty Truelove connected with Reed Lafevers on a 3-yard TD for the 7-0 lead.
The defense stood strong again, and Lake Evans ran for a 46-yard TD before the end of the first, handing the Cats a 14-0 lead.
Bertie had a decent drive going to start the second, but Reid Giles collected a tipped ball for a stellar interception. It only delayed the drive for the Rebels, who forced and recovered a fumble moments later.
They had a 1st & Goal from the five, but the Wildcat defense flexed with a stand that resulted in a missed field goal from a short distance. Rabun put together a lengthy drive in response, with Truelove keeping on a 14-yard visit to the end zone to go up 21-0 going into the half.
Rabun put an exclamation on it with the first drive of the second half, as Giles took a handoff 88 yards for pay dirt and the 28-0 lead. It got better for Wildcat fans, as Truelove connected with Ethan Hopper for a surprise 3-yard TD for the defensive lineman.
Reed Burrell intercepted a pass at the 3-yard line moments later, keeping the Rebels off the board. With a running clock, the Wildcats ran it down to the final horn.
Truelove accounted for three scores, passing for two and rushing for one. Evans and Giles each had a TD run.
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