By CINDY CROSBY
The Colleton County varsity football team fell 28-7 to Region VII-AAAA opponent James Island Charter School on Friday, October 15 on Senior Night at home. The Cougars trailed 6-0 heading into halftime, then Jackie White’s 8-yard touchdown run (Chandler McMillian, kick) would give Colleton County a 7-6 advantage at the end of the third quarter.
However, the Trojans scored three times in the fourth quarter on a 25-yard pass (two-point conversion) an interception return and a 27-yard pass to give them the win.
Colleton County had 146 total yards including 143 yards of rushing. James Island compiled 294 total yards in a balanced attack with 129 passing yards and 165 rushing yards. Colleton County recorded three interceptions thrown and seven penalties for 38 yards.
Quarterback Jackie White was 0-2 with two interceptions and rushed 23 times for 129 yards and one touchdown. Treveion Magwood rushed 17 times for 16 yards.
“James Island was just as strong on defense as we thought,” said Coach Kris Howell following the loss. “Our young offensive line had a rough night against a big, strong, and well-coached defensive front. Jackie White, none-the-less, had his usual big performance, leading the team in yardage gained and total carries. We just could not score when we had chances to do so, and that was the difference in this game.
“Defensively, our team continues to improve,” said Howell. “Tre Fields and Chris Hiers again led the way in tackles and big hits. Dorian Gant and Jadon Winfield also made several key plays which led to James Island turnovers. Finally, Deshawn Blocker grabbed his first interception of the year, stopping the first James Island drive of the night.”
“On special teams, we continue to improve as well,” said Howell. “ Chandler McMillian kicked a field goal, averaged 40 yards per punt, and managed the kickoff duties. He has developed into a true weapon in the kicking game.”
Colleton County (0-3, 0-3) will travel to May River High School (6-2, 3-0) Friday October 22. The Sharks are currently undefeated in Region VII-AAAA after pulling off a 24-21 win over Beaufort High School last week on the road.
“May River is one of the best teams in this area every year and will prove to be a tough opponent,” said Howell. “We look forward to this challenge as we continue to improve our program and raise our level of play.”
