The Cartersville Hurricanes crushed the Columbia Eagles 44-0 in their season opener, showcasing dominance on both offense and defense.
The Hurricanes launched the 2025season with flair, as Nate Russell connected with Davis Waddell for a touchdown midway through the first quarter, securing a 7-0 lead with 6:46 left. Later in the quarter, Braylon Hill broke free for a 47-yard rushing touchdown, boosting the lead to 14-0 with 1:53 remaining.
Early in the second quarter, Tripp Chatmon powered into the end zone from five yards out, extending the Hurricanes’ advantage to 21-0. On Columbia’s next drive, Cole Crawford intercepted a pass and raced to the end zone, pushing the score to 28-0. Hill struck again before halftime, scoring his second touchdown to give Cartersville a commanding 35-0 lead at the break.
Despite the lopsided score, the Canes kept their foot on the gas in the second half. In the third quarter, Columbia’s punter mishandled a snap, sending the ball through the endzone for a safety, increasing Cartersville’s lead to 37-0. In the fourth quarter, the Canes’ defense forced a fumble, scooped it up, and returned it for a touchdown, sealing the 44-0 victory.
Cartersville starts the season 1-0 and heads to Rockmart next week to face the Rockmart Yellow Jackets.