Unbeaten Ridgeland steamrolls Northwest Whitfield, 48-7

TUNNEL HILL, Ga. – Ridgeland brought the train with it Friday night.

The Panthers enter home football games to the sights and sounds of a railroad crossing, a warning to opponents to watch out for the freight train. On the road in a key Region 6-AAAA opener, Ridgeland steamrolled all over Northwest Whitfield, 48-7, displaying domination on both sides of the ball.

“We really played great in all facets of the game,” said Ridgeland coach Wesley Tankersley, who admitted the performance made a statement. “This sets the tone for the rest of the season, and if we can clean up a few things we can have a special season.”

Even with a running clock for most of the final quarter, the Panthers (5-0) put up 551 total yards to just 148 for the usually potent Bruins. The deadly duo of fullback Jalyn Shelton (19 carries, 133 yards and three touchdowns) and wingback Markeith Montgomery (93 rushing yards, 104 receiving and two scores) highlighted an offense that did major damage inside, outside and over the top.

Northwest (3-2) made the first statement, though, using a 42-yard scramble by senior quarterback Luke Shiflett and his 35-yard touchdown pass to Jaret Staten two plays later for a quick 7-0 lead.