The Sevier County Bears entered the state semifinals against Oak Ridge with confidence, fueled by their remarkable playoff run. Known for their resilience and poise under pressure, this team, led by sophomore quarterback Cooper Newman, continued to defy expectations. With a perfect 13-0 record, a roster blending seasoned seniors and standout underclassmen, and a belief that no deficit is insurmountable, the Bears delivered yet another thrilling victory, defeating Oak Ridge 44-34.
Don’t call them a Cinderella team—because there’s nothing lucky about their success. Week after week, doubters labeled underdogs, picking them to lose, but the Bears have embraced the doubt and turned it into fuel. They feed off the skeptics, thriving on the opportunity to prove their resilience and determination. With every dramatic victory, this team has shown they belong among the elite, and against Oak Ridge, they left no doubt.
The Bears set the tone early with their fierce defense. Senior Jude Costner came up big with an interception on Oak Ridge’s third play, returning it deep into scoring range. On the very next play, Roman Gibbons powered into the end zone for a rushing touchdown, putting the Bears up 7-0 after Taylor Madison’s extra point. Oak Ridge answered back with a long touchdown pass, leveling the score at 7-7.
The Bears opened the second quarter with a 34-yard field goal from Taylor Madison to regain the lead, 10-7. Later, Cooper Newman found Hayden Akers for a 9-yard touchdown pass, extending the Bears' lead to 17-13 after Oak Ridge added a field goal of their own. However, the Oak Ridge offense struck again, scoring a late touchdown to take a 20-17 lead into halftime.
The momentum swung back to Oak Ridge as they extended their lead to 27-17 early in the second half. But when the pressure mounted, Newman took command. He connected with Akers for a 32-yard touchdown pass to narrow the gap to 27-24. After a critical defensive stop, Newman led another drive, capping it with a 15-yard touchdown pass to Roman Gibbons to give the Bears a 31-27 lead heading into the final quarter.
The final quarter belonged to the Bears. Newman found Akers for a jaw-dropping 93-yard touchdown pass, putting the Bears ahead 37-34. The turning point came when Coach Loveday made a bold call for an onside kick, recovered brilliantly by Alexis Martinez. With momentum fully in their favor, Newman sealed the game with a 22-yard touchdown strike to Parker Newman. The Bears’ defense held strong, allowing just one second-half score to secure the 44-34 victory.
This victory was more than just another win; it was a testament to the Bears’ heart and unity. From the offensive line’s protection to the defensive squad’s critical plays, every player contributed to this historic win. The offensive line’s performance was key, giving Cooper Newman ample time to make his passes and allowing the running back duo, Tegan Avera and Nathan Patterson, to churn out tough yards. Avera and Patterson kept the defense honest with their powerful, versatile running, which opened up the passing game.
Cooper Newman finished 23-of-28 for 326 yards and five touchdowns, adding 13 rushing yards. Hayden Akers hauled in three touchdowns (32, 9, and 93 yards), while Roman Gibbons added two scores—a 15-yard receiving TD and a rushing TD. Parker Newman delivered a 22-yard touchdown catch, and Taylor Madison was perfect on extra points while nailing a 34-yard field goal. Alexis Martinez’s crucial onside kick recovery was another defining moment, while Jude Costner’s interception and defensive heroics helped anchor the team.
With one game left in their pursuit of perfection, the Bears are ready to make history. They’ve already transformed the culture of Sevier County football, and now they aim to cap their season with a championship. The Bears have shown they don’t know how to quit, and their journey isn’t over. One more game remains—stay tuned as they look to add one final chapter to their remarkable story.
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