The Sevier County Bears solidified their place in history as a team of destiny, capturing the state championship with a hard-fought 27-20 victory over Page. Led by their electrifying sophomore quarterback Cooper Newman, who dazzled with precision passing and cool-headed decision-making, the Bears put on an offensive clinic that kept their opponents guessing. Yet, it was the Bears’ defense that truly shined, suffocating Page’s high-powered offense with relentless pressure and timely turnovers. The victory marked a new era for Sevier County football, as the Bears not only clinched the title but also cemented a winning culture that promises longevity and dominance.
The young quarterback was spectacular, completing 15 of 26 passes for 156 yards and two touchdowns to Jude Costner without turning the ball over. His poise in the pocket and ability to exploit mismatches proved decisive in a game where every possession mattered. Haydon Akers was a big part of that, with 5 catches for 94 yards. The Bears also delivered a critical special teams play, with Bryson Headrick returning a blocked field goal for a touchdown in the second quarter to seize momentum going into halftime—a lead these Bears never relinquished. Meanwhile, the Bears’ defense was equally stellar, holding Page to just two touchdowns in the second half while forcing a fumble recovery by Parker Newman in the first half (forced by Wyatt Maples) and another recovery by Jaxson Perry late in the fourth quarter. Slade Hickman also had a huge INT. Wyatt Maples added two incredible near-INTs that prevented huge catches that could have changed the game’s trajectory. This win not only secured the program’s first state championship in over a decade but also set the tone for a future filled with high expectations. As Sevier County celebrates this historic moment, the Bears’ focus remains clear—building on this foundation to create a dynasty rooted in excellence and resilience.
The Bears were hungry and determined to bring home that gold ball after feeling disrespected all postseason and given the label of Cinderella as an undefeated team. For three straight weeks, they entered as underdogs, picked to lose, but this resilient bunch just kept their composure and used the doubt as fuel. They never wavered in their confidence in themselves, nor did I. They stayed in the film room, preparing each week for the opponent before them. Even facing the adversity of injuries to leaders on both sides of the ball, it was the next man up to carry the load and fill the voids left. Tegan Avera, their dynamic RB, who suffered a complex injury around mid-season, fought hard to get back and gave his all in limited minutes but couldn’t play one snap in the championship game. Joey Galatzin, a leading defensive player who tallied the team's most tackles during the season, also watched the championship game on the sidelines in crutches after being injured during the Oak Ridge game. These Bears rallied around their fallen leaders, determined to win it for them as well. Their heart and determination carried their brothers to the finish line. For this class of seniors, it’s a special feeling to leave that field for the last time as champions. The other senior defensive leader, Tyler Mann, was a tackling machine last night. The pit bull had to eat, y'all. This was a magical run with this blend of youth and savvy vets forming an unbeatable brotherhood. There are so many other seniors and players who were vital during this run and didn’t go unnoticed.
Finally, I close with two questions and statements, as these Bears already let their game speak loud and clear to the doubters. I add: What happens when you poke a bear? Never, ever poke a bear; you will never enjoy his response! Did y’all know Bears can fly too? These Bears do; they soar with eagles. Congrats, Smoky Bears of Sevier County—the 5A State Champions—ending the season 15-0 for the first time in the playoff era for the Bears.
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