CARTHAGE VS WEST ORANGE-STARK

The state championship belonged to the Carthage Bulldogs, who pulled away for a 49–21 win over the West Orange-Stark Mustangs in a decisive title game performance. Carthage set the tone early with physical play and never let up, building momentum on both sides of the ball and controlling the pace from start to finish.

Quarterback Jett Surratt delivered a steady and efficient night, completing 20 of 28 passes for 232 yards and three touchdowns. His ability to spread the ball kept the West Orange-Stark defense on its heels all game. Running back KJ Edwards powered the offense on the ground with 153 rushing yards and two touchdowns, consistently breaking through tackles and extending drives. In the passing game, Junior Henderson was a major target, hauling in 126 receiving yards and providing several explosive plays downfield.

West Orange-Stark showed flashes of fight, but Carthage’s depth and execution proved to be the difference as the Bulldogs closed the game strong. With the victory, Carthage capped off a championship run in dominant fashion and left no doubt on the sport’s biggest stage.