Tuscaloosa, AL — In a game that will be remembered for its dramatic twists and turns, Central High School pulled off a stunning comeback to defeat Tuscaloosa County 31-28, thanks to a last-second field goal by Graham Wolfe.

The game started with a bang as Tuscaloosa County’s KJ Jackson electrified the crowd, taking a screen pass the distance for an early touchdown. After the PAT, the Wildcats were up 7-0 with 9:28 remaining in the first quarter. The momentum continued in the second quarter when Braeden Smith connected with Austin Cherry for a 62-yard touchdown, extending the Wildcats’ lead to 14-0.

Central’s offense began to show signs of life when quarterback Armani White scrambled for a 17-yard touchdown, narrowing the gap to 14-7 midway through the second quarter. However, Tuscaloosa County responded quickly, with Carter Dotson finding Kelton Norfleet for a 36-yard touchdown pass, pushing the Wildcats’ lead to 21-7 just before halftime.

Simon Besnoy
Simon Besnoy
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After the break, Jackson struck again, breaking off a 76-yard touchdown run that extended the Wildcats’ lead to 28-7 early in the third quarter. But Central refused to go quietly. White scored on a designed run, cutting the deficit to 28-14 with 3:21 left in the third quarter. Moments later, White found the edge for a 44-yard touchdown run, bringing Central within a touchdown at 28-21.

The momentum fully shifted to Central when a spectacular punt return brought them to the 1-yard line. Zavion Cade powered through the Wildcats’ defense, tying the game at 28-28 with 9:30 left in the fourth quarter.

With the clock winding down, Central drove down the field and set up a field goal attempt. With just 15.3 seconds remaining, Graham Wolf nailed the kick, completing the Falcons’ comeback and handing them a thrilling 31-28 victory over Tuscaloosa County.

Simon Besnoy
Simon Besnoy
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The win marked a significant moment for Central, who demonstrated resilience and determination in overcoming a 21-point deficit. For Tuscaloosa County, it was a game of missed opportunities, as they were unable to maintain their early dominance.

As the final whistle blew, Central’s players and fans celebrated a victory that will surely be talked about for years to come.

Tuscaloosa County vs Central

Gallery Credit: Photos by Xavier Houston

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