In a hard-fought battle marked by turnovers and defensive stands, the Adairsville Tigers (2-3) rallied in the fourth quarter to defeat the LaFayette Ramblers 27-10, powered by a standout performance from Jake Bars.
The game opened with Adairsville striking first, as Colton Sanford punched in a touchdown on the Tigers’ opening drive, taking a 7-0 lead. Early on, both teams struggled to maintain possession, with each squad managing two or three drives but failing to capitalize. Adairsville’s third drive stalled in LaFayette territory, and a failed punt attempt led to a turnover on downs. LaFayette seized the opportunity, with Javven Williams scoring a touchdown on a quick drive to tie the game at 7-7, closing out the first quarter’s scoring.
The second quarter saw both offenses sputter. Adairsville’s opening drive ended in a punt, and LaFayette’s possession was cut short when Sanford intercepted a pass for the Tigers. Despite the turnover, neither team could break the deadlock, and the score remained knotted at 7-7 heading into halftime.
LaFayette came out strong in the third quarter, driving deep into Adairsville territory but stalling just shy of the 20-yard line. Settling for a field goal, the Ramblers took a 10-7 lead, their first of the game. The third quarter ended with no further scoring, setting the stage for a dramatic final period.
Adairsville ignited in the fourth quarter, as Jake Bars powered in a touchdown to reclaim the lead at 14-10. LaFayette’s next drive fizzled, and the Tigers capitalized with a lengthy possession, culminating in another Bars touchdown, sparked by a massive play, to extend the lead to 21-10. The Ramblers’ woes continued as Adairsville’s defense forced a fumble, which the Tigers recovered. Seizing the moment, Adairsville scored again, with Bars once more finding the end zone. LaFayette’s final gasp ended in disaster, as Bars picked off a pass and returned it for a pick-six, pushing the score to 27-10 despite a missed PAT. The Tigers held firm, securing the 27-10 victory.
Adairsville will be back in action next Friday night at 7:30 as it hosts the Calhoun Yellow Jackets. You can hear the game by streaming the Adairsville Sports Network.