Picayune Secures Playoff Spot With 28-21 Victory
A late-game surge allowed the Maroon Tide to overcome early deficits against Pearl River Central.
By Oliver Bennett ·
The Picayune Maroon Tide advanced to the playoffs after defeating Pearl River Central 28-21 in a Class 6A, Region 4 matchup on Thursday night.
Pearl River Central established an early 7-0 lead on the opening drive. Quarterback Titus Feaster connected with Evan Bellelo and Kylen Egana for first downs. He then ran for a touchdown up the middle to put the Blue Devils ahead after the extra point.
Picayune tied the score at 7-7 on its first offensive possession. Running back Xavier Dennis picked up a first down along the sideline. On the next play, he reversed field and broke free for a touchdown.
The Blue Devils regained the lead on a shovel pass from Feaster to Terrel Wilkes. The margin widened further after Kylen Egana stripped Dennis of the football. Feaster then completed a pass to Ayden Radosta to move the offense downfield, though Jamari Hathorne stopped the drive on fourth down.
Picayune outscored Pearl River Central 21-14 in the second half to secure the win. The victory gave the Maroon Tide the regional win needed for playoff entry. The final score was 28-21.
The game took place in Carriere, Mississippi. Both teams compete in the same division. The result decided the cross-town rivalry for the season.
