Mortimer Jordan Edges Gardendale in Rivalry Thriller

Neely’s Late Heroics Lift Blue Devils Over Rockets 35-28

KIMBERLY, AL – In a nail-biting rivalry game, the Mortimer Jordan Blue Devils clinched a dramatic 35-28 victory over the Gardendale Rockets Friday night at Jimmie Trotter Stadium. A last-minute touchdown pass from quarterback Blaze Neely to wide receiver Tanner Rice sealed the win, pushing the Blue Devils one step closer to playoff contention in a game where neither team ever led by more than a single score.

The victory improves Mortimer Jordan’s record to 3-5 for the season and 2-3 in Class 6A, Region 5. The Rockets, despite a hard-fought effort, fell to 1-7 on the season and 0-5 in region play.

A Back-and-Forth Battle from the Start

The game began with an explosive play from Gardendale. Quarterback Ridge Wiggins connected with Jaylon Keenan for a 79-yard touchdown pass, giving the Rockets an early lead.

Mortimer Jordan was quick to respond. Running back Parker Reno punched it in from five yards out to tie the game at 7-7. The offensive showcase continued as Wiggins found Cohen Corbell for a 32-yard touchdown reception, putting Gardendale back in front, 14-7.

The Blue Devils battled back once more. Reno found the end zone for a second time with a 3-yard run, leveling the score at 14-14. However, the Rockets answered with a 3-yard rushing touchdown from Jackson Hanner to reclaim the lead at 21-14. Not to be outdone, Mortimer Jordan’s Jacob Cawley scored on a 6-yard run, resulting in a 21-21 deadlock.

Second Half Drama Sets Up Epic Finish

Mortimer Jordan captured its first lead of the night in the third quarter. With 6:25 remaining, Tanner Rice scored on a 3-yard run, putting the Blue Devils ahead 28-21.

The lead was short-lived. With just eight seconds left in the third quarter, Gardendale’s Walter Tamper crossed the goal line on a 3-yard run, tying the game at 28-28 and setting the stage for a tense final period.

The fourth quarter saw both defenses stand tall until the final minute. With only 37 seconds on the clock, Mortimer Jordan’s Blaze Neely dropped back and launched a pass to Tanner Rice, who broke free for a game-winning 80-yard touchdown reception.

Standout Performances

Blaze Neely had a stellar night for Mortimer Jordan, completing 11 of his 15 pass attempts for 297 yards and the decisive touchdown. Parker Reno was a force on the ground, carrying the ball 18 times for 125 yards and two touchdowns while also adding a 34-yard reception. Tanner Rice was the hero of the night, finishing with three catches for 105 yards and a touchdown, in addition to a rushing score.

Looking Ahead

Following the crucial region win, Coach Heath Lauderdale’s Blue Devils will have a bye week to recover. They will return to action on October 23rd when they travel to Birmingham to face the Jackson-Olin Mustangs.

The Rockets will attempt to snap their seven game losing skid next week. They return home to Driver Stadium to host the Woodlawn Colonels.