Guntersville Defeats Fort Payne 21-10 Behind Street Smith’s Two Touchdown Passes

GUNTERSVILLE, AL – The Guntersville Wildcats, ranked seventh in Class 5A secured a hard-fought 21-10 victory over Class 6A Fort Payne Friday night at Chorba-Lee Stadium, improving to 2-0 on the season.

Head coach Chris Elmore’s Fort Payne squad slips to 1-1 heading into region play.  

The Wildcats struck early when Camp Green returned the opening kickoff for a touchdown. Quarterback Street Smith added his first scoring pass of the night, connecting with Dadrien Waller to give Guntersville a 14-10 halftime advantage.

Smith sealed the win in the second half with his second touchdown pass to Waller, capping the scoring at 21-10. Guntersville’s defense dominated the final two quarters, recording crucial interceptions from Westin Hammond and Hudson Oliver to preserve the victory.

The win sets up a pivotal road test for Guntersville (2-0) as they travel to face Brewer Friday night to begin Class 5A Region 8 competition. Fort Payne (1-1) will use a bye week to prepare for their next matchup against Class 6A Region 8 opponent Southside-Gadsden at home.

Smith’s efficient passing attack and the Wildcats’ ability to force turnovers proved to be the difference in this cross-classification battle, as Guntersville continues building momentum early in the 2024 season.