The visitor’s side was packed at Red Devil Hill Friday night, and Lamar County rewarded its fans with a hard-fought victory. The Lamar County Trojans extended their winning streak over rival Jackson to five straight games thanks to a gritty ground attack and stiff defense to extinguish the Devils’ fire. If you thought the game was ugly, Trojan Nation will gladly take ugly every year against Jackson. The final score was 13-6 in favor of the Trojans.
Lamar County finished with 180 total yards to Jackson’s 203, but it was the physical run game and dominant defense that told the true story. Jackson’s 216 passing yards were offset by a complete shutdown of their rushing attack, leaving them with negative yardage on the ground.
The Trojans outgained Jackson 160 to –13 on the ground thanks to some tough work in the trenches. Lamar County ran 56 plays to Jackson’s 41.
Quarterback Ross Hamrick carried much of the load for the Trojans, grinding out 52 rushing yards on 15 carries while also throwing for 20 yards through the air. Hamrick connected with Josiah Chambers for an 11-yard reception to help keep the offense moving.
Kenyae Barnes added 36 yards on 7 carries, while Kaden Carter picked up 22 yards on 11 carries.
Head Coach Travis Ellington credited both teams for a tough effort in the rivalry game:
“I think Coach Clark and his staff have a really good football team and played us well.”
Ellington thinks that his team played well in all three phases of the game. He spoke about the performance of his players, saying,
“We were able to block some field goals, which were really key to our victory, and we were able to move the ball on offense. Defensively we played really well in the first half. In the second half they came out on fire and started moving the ball, limiting our touches on offense. We are glad to get out of there with a win.”
He also emphasized the role of Trojan Nation in the win.
“We had awesome fan support Friday night. Our stands were packed, and our fans had great energy all night. We really appreciate our fans and the support they show us at home and on the road.”
Ellington closed by encouraging the community to stay behind the Trojans with a full slate of football ahead.
“We have a middle school game Wednesday vs. Clifton Ridge, JV Thursday vs. Monticello, and Rutland here at home Friday night. Please come out and support our Trojans this week.”
Players of the Week
- Offense – Amari Bentley, No. 51
- Defense – Jermaine Doctor, No. 15
- Offensive Scout Team – Jayden Doctor, No. 16
- Defensive Scout Team – Kavontae Hampton, No. 28
- Special Teams – Jermaine Doctor, No. 15
Grant Turner is the editor of the Barnesville Buzz and an educator, coach, and writer based in Barnesville, Georgia. He shares stories that bridge community, faith, and personal growth. In addition to teaching and coaching, Grant is Director of Musical Worship and a Sunday School teacher at New Hope Baptist Church in Zebulon, Georgia. He lives in Barnesville with his wife, Haley.
