The difference between two evenly matched teams usually comes down to poise under fire.
Walker County rivals LaFayette and Ridgeland found themselves tied at 13 halfway through the fourth quarter Friday night, and each was penalized for a false start during its final possession. The Ramblers were able to hit a field goal with 3:38 left. Ridgeland, pushing for the home win, threw an interception with 45.7 seconds on the clock, and the visitors rambled on to the 16-13 win.
“These guys just don’t ever give up,” coach Ethan Thompson said after his Ramblers improved to 4-2 overall and 1-1 in GHSA Region 7-AAA. “You look back at the really good seasons at LaFayette, and the defense has stepped up. We’re having another season like that.
“If you can get turnovers and stops, you can win the game.”
(READ MORE: Final scores and photos from Friday night’s Chattanooga-area prep football games)