A frustrating first half was followed by a fabulous final two quarters for South Pittsburg junior JaMychal Buckner during last Friday’s back-and-forth battle with Chattanooga Prep.
After gaining just eight yards on four first-half carries and being called for a holding penalty that negated a touchdown run by teammate Ky’Saun Powell, a visibly irritated Buckner refused to pout.
Instead, he performed.
Buckner stepped up by stepping into a leadership role and help lead his team back to the Class 1A quarterfinals for the ninth time in 10 seasons as the Pirates pulled away late for a 14-point win over the stubborn Sentinels.
The 5-11, 180-pounder began his second-half surge by forcing a fumble on Chatt Preps’ first possession of the third quarter — with his team leading by only 7-3 — which was recovered by the Pirates at midfield. On the ensuing play, Buckner broke free for a 50-yard touchdown run.