McCallie Handles Hebron Christian, 24–8, Behind Stifling Defense

Written By: Jay Pace (@TheRealJayPace)

McCallie gets it done with a stifling defensive performance against Hebron 24-8.

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. 

In a battle of teams who will challenge for state supremacy in their regions, a pair of defending state champions, McCallie dominated Hebron Christian (Ga.) in a 24-8 message sending win in front of a rowdy home crowd at Spears Stadium on a gorgeous Friday night in East Tennessee.  

McCallie imposed its will throughout the contest, as it leaned on and eventually wore down a game but outmanned Hebron Christian squad.

“We were able to run the ball fairly well,” said McCallie head coach Joel Bradford. “And we were able to make some plays in the passing game as well.”

That defense was lights out, only giving up 54 total yards to a game Hebron Christian offense.

In an era of high flying offenses and gaudy statistical outputs, McCallie proves that defense can still win championships. 

“Our defense played lights out,” said Bradford. They were phenomenal.”

PICK SIX

The Blue Tornadoes got on the board first when junior DB Loia Valade picked off a pass near midfield and returned it untouched for a 7-0 lead.

Later in the first, QB Eli Drapeau found a streaking Keeyshawn Tabuteau in the back of the end zone for a 38 yard scoring strike to double the lead with 4:44 left in the first.

“They were playing aggressively the first few drives,” noted Drapeau . “So, we had to take the top off of the defense. They should’ve respected the passing game more.”

Drapeau finished the night with 101 yards passing. 

BACK BREAKER

The Blue Tornadoes added another score with 5:30 left In the first half when RB Kris Lloyd’s three yard TD run capped a soul-crushing 22 play drive that chewed nearly eight minutes off the clock.

“After that (touchdown),’ said Lloyd," they didn't have the same energy. They were cramping, they were tired, they didn't want to be here anymore.’

Following a field goal from Ben Brewer to make the score 24-0 early in the 4th, the Lions finally got on the board with 5:04 remaining when Thomas Kitchings hauled in a 33 yard TD pass to make it 24-8 following the successful two-point conversion. 

Through its first two games Hebron Christian was averaging 37 points. Last night it was fortunate to have even scored at all.