Nail Biter in Stevenson

By Marla Jones, Sports Editor • marla@southerntorch.com

STEVENSON, Ala. — The Madison County Tigers defeated the North Jackson Chiefs, 27-18 on Friday night.

The Tigers put the first points on the board with a 2-yard dash into the endzone. The 2-point conversion failed but gave the Tigers the early 6-0 lead. On the next drive, North Jackson marched down the field for 88-yards before the ball was knocked loose and recovered by Madison Academy.

North Jackson tied the game in the second quarter with a touchdown by Johnny Gilliam.  After trading possessions, Madison County punted and Nigel Lanier returned the punt for a touchdown.  With 2:20 remaining in the second quarter, Madison County scored.  North Jackson answered back with :20 remaining in the first half, on a touchdown by Gilliam, to take the 18-13 lead. 

The Tigers added two touchdowns in the second half. One in the third quarter and a final one in the fourth, to win the game with a score of 27-18.

North Jackson had a total of 481 yards for the night. Dalton Morris completed 23-of-47 passes for 355 yards. Johnny Gilliam had 107 yards on 25 carries. Nigel Lanier caught 11 passes for 175 yards.

North Jackson will face Randolph on the road this Friday.