Saraland Edges Spain Park 35-31 in Thrilling 6A Playoff Battle

SARALAND, AL – In a game for the ages, the No. 2-ranked Saraland Spartans outlasted the No. 8 Spain Park Jaguars in a dramatic 35-31 victory during the second round of the Class 6A playoffs on Friday night. The electrifying showdown at Spartan Field showcased elite performances, with Saraland quarterback Jamison Roberts stealing the spotlight in a game that will be remembered for years.

The win keeps Saraland’s undefeated season alive, advancing them to an 11-0 record and setting up a quarterfinal clash against Pike Road (10-2), who defeated Bessemer City 28-6.  

Roberts Shines 

Jamison Roberts, Saraland’s 6-foot-3 junior quarterback, delivered a near-flawless performance. He completed 22 of 25 passes for 247 yards and two touchdowns while adding 94 rushing yards on 10 carries, including a 58-yard touchdown run. Roberts also scored the game-winning touchdown on a one-yard sneak with 4:35 left in the fourth quarter, capping off a methodical drive that sealed the Spartans’ victory.

Roberts’ dominance was evident early, as he orchestrated two quick scoring drives to give Saraland a 14-0 lead. His first touchdown came on a 13-yard run, followed by a 13-yard touchdown pass to Duke commit Deshawn Spencer. Despite the early deficit, Spain Park refused to back down.

Spain Park’s Resilience

The Jaguars (9-3) showcased their trademark grit, rallying from the 14-point hole to take a 17-14 halftime lead. Quarterback Brock Bradley, a Clemson commit, connected with Connor Greb on an 80-yard touchdown pass to spark the comeback. Moments later, Bradley found Greb again for a 30-yard score, capitalizing on a Saraland fumble just before halftime.

Bradley’s heroics continued in the second half, as he extended plays and delivered clutch throws. He finished the night with an impressive 19-of-23 passing for 335 yards and four touchdowns. Greb was equally sensational, hauling in four catches for 160 yards and two scores.

A Second-Half Shootout

The second half turned into an offensive showcase, with both teams trading blows. Roberts’ 58-yard touchdown run early in the third quarter briefly put Saraland back on top, but Bradley responded with a Houdini-like play, escaping pressure to find Landrick Hallman wide open in the end zone. Spain Park reclaimed the lead at 24-21.

Saraland answered with a 70-yard drive, capped by a three-yard touchdown pass from Roberts to Sye Byrd, making it 28-24. However, Bradley and the Jaguars struck back with a methodical drive of their own, as Barrett Price caught a slant pass for a touchdown, giving Spain Park a 31-28 advantage with just over eight minutes remaining.

Defensive Heroics Seal the Game

With the game on the line, Roberts led the Spartans on a clutch drive, culminating in his one-yard quarterback sneak to reclaim the lead at 35-31. Spain Park had one final chance to pull off the upset, but Saraland’s defense rose to the occasion. Senior linebacker Leslie “LJ” Nobles delivered back-to-back sacks on Spain Park’s final drive, including a critical fourth-down stop with 3:11 left, to secure the victory.

A Night to Remember

Despite the loss, Spain Park’s players left it all on the field. Bradley’s stellar performance, combined with Greb’s explosive plays and contributions from Barrett Price and Nik McKissic, highlighted the Jaguars’ offensive firepower. McKissic, a versatile weapon, added 11 carries and four catches in a Swiss army knife role.

For Saraland, the win was a testament to their resilience. Roberts’ poise under pressure and Nobles’ defensive heroics ensured the Spartans’ playoff journey continues.

As Saraland prepares for their next challenge against Pike Road, one thing is clear: this team is built for the big moments.