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By Caleb Thomas

The Charles Henderson Trojans won a physical game 6-0 against the Pike County Bulldogs to open the 2024 season Friday night.

A stifling defense, efficient rushing attack and clutch field goal block helped the banged-up Trojans win a hard-fought contest in front of a packed house at Bulldog Stadium in Brundidge.

“The coaches and team did an excellent job, considering COVID and everything else we had to deal with this week,” said Trojans head coach Quinn Hambrite. “We were missing five starters, so for them to come out here and win, whether it’s 2-0 or 6-0, it doesn’t matter.”

Senior running back Antonio Frazier led the charge for Charles Henderson, punching in a three-yard touchdown run to open the scoring in the first quarter to give the Trojans a 6-0 lead.

After its opening drive, Charles Henderson wasn’t able to find the endzone again.

The Bulldogs threatened to score late in the game after a 52-yard run from junior running back Braylin Jackson. A false start forced Pike County to attempt a 35-yard field goal, but Trojans defensive back Jamal Downing swooped in to block the kick and keep the Bulldogs off the board.

“That’s a kid that gives heart, effort and everything in-between,” Hambrite said of Downing, a senior. “He’s been doing an excellent job leading the secondary.”

The Trojans defense completely shut down Pike County in the first half. Aside from back-to-back first down scampers from the Bulldogs late in the second quarter, the Pike County offense struggled to move the ball.

With under a minute remaining in the first half, Pike County blocked a Trojans punt and earned excellent field position. A missed field goal ensured the score stayed 6-0 heading into the second half.

The defensive showdown continued in the second half. The Trojans came out swinging in the third quarter, as sophomore quarterback Kellen Stewart completed a long 44-yard pass to tight end Cedric Brown to move the ball downfield.

However, a fumble recovered by the Bulldogs quickly ended the drive and the defenses continued to go blow-for-blow.

On Pike County’s last drive with 50 seconds remaining, Charles Henderson defensive back Kameron Christian came up with an interception to seal the win.

Charles Henderson holds its home opener next Friday at 7 p.m. against Highland Home. Pike County opens the regular season at home against Houston Academy next week.