Central-Phenix City Downs Hoover 17-7 to Earn Return Trip to Super 7

PHENIX CITY, AL – The Central-Phenix City Red Devils punched their ticket to the 2024 Super 7 Championships with a hard-fought 17-7 victory over the Hoover Buccaneers on Friday night at Garrett-Harrison Stadium. The defending state champions will face powerhouse Thompson in a rematch of last year’s title game scheduled for Wednesday, December 4th, at Birmingham’s Protective Stadium.

Hoover’s season comes to a close at 10-3.

Fast Start Propels Central to Early Lead

The Red Devils wasted no time setting the tone, driving 61 yards in 12 plays on their opening possession. Quarterback Andrew Alford showcased precision, completing 6 of 9 passes for 59 yards during the drive. Alford connected with wide receiver and Miami commitment Daylyn Upshaw three times, including a 7-yard touchdown catch at 7:06 in the first quarter. Kicker Jack Ciancio’s extra point gave Central a 7-0 advantage.

Hoover Responds, but Central Defense Clamps Down

The Buccaneers answered quickly, piecing together a 12-play, 74-yard drive that ended with JR Mosley’s 1-yard touchdown run. The successful PAT tied the game at 7-7 with 3:08 remaining in the opening quarter.

Central regained the lead on their next possession, advancing from their own 35-yard line to the Hoover 12. Ciancio capped the drive with a 29-yard field goal, giving the Red Devils a 10-7 edge. Despite strong efforts from both teams, neither managed to score again, as Central’s defense rose to the occasion and stifled Hoover for the remainder of the game.

Key Performances

Alford led the Red Devils with an impressive 185 yards and two touchdowns on 19-of-30 passing. Upshaw proved to be his go-to target, hauling in 10 catches for 97 yards and a touchdown.

Hoover’s offense struggled to find consistency against Central’s defense. Quarterback Mac Beason completed 9-of-28 passes for 121 yards but threw three interceptions, hampering the Buccaneers’ chances of a comeback.

Next Stop: Championship Rematch

The Red Devils will now prepare for their highly anticipated clash with the Thompson Warriors in the Class 7A state title game. Kickoff is set for 7:00 PM on December 4th at Protective Stadium in Birmingham, where Central will look to defend their crown and secure back-to-back championships.